Diaspora Performance Project
Origins, Immigration, Creation
Artists of the African Diaspora
Diaspora Performance Project gives professional support to 5 selected cultural artists. Our program, launched in 2018, seeks to support our thriving community of Artists of the African Diaspora and provide opportunity for the development of new work, deep and meaningful connection to our community, and performance opportunity.
Tannery World Dance and Cultural Center (TWDCC) has made it a priority through our mission to sustain a dance and cultural space that supports Santa Cruz and Bay Area professional artists, and specifically, artists who have left their country of origin or have second and third generation immigrant experiences that inform their work directly. This support is done through offering them space free of charge to teach and rehearse, artistic exposure, funding, professional development, as well as performance and teaching opportunities.
About the Diaspora Performance Artists
Past Diaspora Performance Project Events
Deep Roots Dance Fest
TWDCC curated and produced this annual event celebrating dance from the African Diaspora.
NDOGI: A Congolese Story
Choreographed by Vivien Bassouamina · January 8th, 2022
Beyond the Grave: Ancestral Healing Ceremony
An event honoring the ancestors of the Santa Cruz community with Culture Bearer Luna Bey and Congolese artist Vivien Boussamina · 2021
Hâ Mbongui African Dance & Drum Conference
Annual conference featuring dance and drum instructors from all over Africa, from 2016-2026
Kikulu Kia Nza Dance & Drum Conference
Annual dance and drum conference at TWDCC · August 2021, 2023
The Tannery World Dance and Cultural Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is committed to equity, access and excellence in dance education and performance. Through our classes, scholarships, festivals and community events, TWDCC links artists, audiences and communities throughout Santa Cruz and the greater Bay Area.
Make room for the next generation
Great dance starts
with a community.
Help young dancers access training, support working artists, and keep our creative community moving.
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