THE BLACK DANCE ACADEMY
Dance. Culture. Community.
Move With Purpose. Reconnect With Culture. Join a Real Community.
You don’t just want a class.
You want movement that means something.
You want rhythm that connects you.
You want community that feels alive.
The Black Dance Academy is where that happens.
Every class is completely FREE and open to everyone.
Because African dance isn’t something you watch — it’s something you feel, remember, and live.
Travel the World Through Dance with a Different Style Each Day.
Full Semester Enrollment
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Attend the same class each week
Learn progressively
Learn choreography step-by-step
Participate in recital
Commit to weekly classes and grow each week.
Drop-In Class Enrollment
Flexible attendance
No long-term commitment
Attend when available
Good for visitors or busy schedules
Try a class first and see how you like it.
Spring Weekly Class Schedule
March 16 – May 16, 2026
All Evening Classes: 6:30–8:00 PM PST
📍 Location: ASI Cultural Arts Center
4302 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90008
Train in a different dance style each day of the week.
From West African to Step, Afro-Brazilian to House Dance — every class offers a new rhythm, a new movement language, and a deeper cultural connection.
Beginner
West African Dance
Led by Dr. Jewel Jackson-Diallo
Learn foundational West African dance movements while building rhythm, coordination, and cultural awareness in a supportive beginner-friendly environment.
Step
Dance
Led by Vernon Jackson
Learn authentic Step with Step Master Vernon Jackson. Whether you're new or experienced, this class teaches rhythm, teamwork, and powerful movement rooted in tradition.
Dun Dun
Dance
Led by Dr. Jewel Jackson-Diallo
Experience the powerful tradition of Dun Dun from Guinea, where students learn to drum and dance simultaneously while building rhythm, coordination, and strength.
THURSDAY (6:30–8 PM)
Afro Brazilian Dance
Led by Nagode Simpson
Explore Afro-Brazilian dance traditions inspired by rhythms connecting Africa and Brazil. This energetic class blends movement, music, and cultural storytelling.
House Dance
Led by Malia Henderson
Keep the energy going with House dance. Move to vibrant house music while learning grooves, footwork, and freestyle movement in a lively class.
ASI MASTER CLASS
a different world class Master Artist takes the floor. A new style. A new experience. Right here in your community.
Barakissa Coulibaly
Côte d'Ivoire Master Dance Artist & Choreographer
📅 Saturday, April 25 @ 5:00 PM | 📅 Sunday, April 26 @ 3:00 PM
Don't miss this — it's the last free one before Summer!
A Space for the Whole Family
The Black Dance Academy isn’t just for individuals — it’s for families.
Parents moving alongside their children.
College students reconnecting with culture.
Community members seeking something real.
You don’t have to come alone.
Bring your child.
Bring your partner.
Bring your friends.
Culture is meant to be practiced together — and this is a space where everyone belongs.
Who This Is For
This academy is for you if:
You want culturally rooted instruction
You want consistent movement and growth
You value community over competition
You’re open to learning and showing up
No experience required.
All bodies welcome.
For decades, Dr. Jewel and African Soul International have created spaces where people of all levels come together to move, learn, and celebrate African-centered culture.
Have Questions? We’re Happy to Help.
We want you to feel comfortable, informed, and supported as you explore the Black Dance Academy.
Here are a few questions we often hear from those who are new to African dance or joining our community for the first time:
I’m new to dance — can I join?
Absolutely!! All levels are welcome — including complete beginners and those returning to movement after time away. No prior experience needed and no judgment here!!
All of our classes are completely FREE so feel free to try any class that speaks to you — drop in once and see how it feels!!
Where are classes held?
All in-person classes take place at the African Soul Cultural Center - 4302 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90008.
Once you join, you’ll receive full location details, schedules, and class information by email.
Can I bring a friend?
Please do!! We love shared experiences and the more the merrier!!
Just make sure everyone registers their own free spot so we can save their place!!
What if I miss a class?
No worries at all!! We encourage consistent attendance since each class builds progressively toward choreography and recital — but life happens and we understand!!
If you registered for the full semester just pick up where you left off and join us the following week!!
And if you joined us for a drop-in — all classes are completely FREE so simply register again and come back anytime!! We will always have a spot for you!!
Can men join?
Of course!! The Black Dance Academy is for everybody — all genders, all ages, all levels, always welcome!!
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in. Bare feet or flexible dance shoes are recommended unless otherwise specified for a particular class.
Bring water and come ready to move.
Can I bring my child?
Absolutely!! The Black Dance Academy is a space for the whole family!! Children are always welcome to join any class alongside you — come together, move together and experience the culture together!!
Ready to Move With Purpose and Community?
Join the Black Dance Academy — an in-person African dance academy experience rooted in culture, learning, and togetherness.
Choose your class.
Commit to the semester.
Grow in rhythm.
Perform with community.
© 2025 African Soul International. All Rights Reserved.