Les Ballets Africains

Les Ballets Africains is the national dance company of Guinea[1] and is based in Conakry.

[2] Although the French name might suggest the idea of European ballet to English speakers, the focus of the company is actually on promoting traditional African dance and culture.

[3] The roots of Les Ballets Africains go back to Guinean poetry student, dancer, choreographer, and musician Fodéba Keïta.

[6] In the 1950s, among the notable musicians recruited were djembe drummers "Papa" Ladji Camara of Mali[4] and Guinean Famoudou Konaté.

[12][13] When President Sékou Touré died in 1984, government support came to an end, and the troupe encountered financial difficulties for several years, but has subsequently resumed touring.