Monique Angevin

Her Story

Monique Angevin serves as Secretary of the Charlotte African Drum and Dance Collective (CADDC). Her dance journey began at the age of 19 — later than most, but driven by a personal decision to finally follow her own passion. She first studied Ballet, Modern, and Improvisation, which she enjoyed but found unfulfilling.  Encouraged by her cousin Romaine, a dancer with an African dance group in Queens, NY, Monique explored West African dance for the first time. The experience connected her more deeply to her cultural roots, awakened her creative spirit, and expanded her expression. She quickly learned the movements and was invited to perform in their spring production, but instead chose to begin a new chapter — raising a family.

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Years later, at age 35, Monique attended African dance classes in Brooklyn, though the connection wasn’t quite right, and she eventually stepped away. After moving to Charlotte in 2004, she rediscovered her passion in 2012 through Shae Movement’s West African Dance classes taught by Niche Faulkner. By age 52, her love for dance was reignited. She performed in numerous productions, attended conferences, and learned from master teachers from across the African continent.

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In 2023, Monique found her home with CADDC. She values the “no-judgment zone” environment and the guidance of Dr. Tinka Barnes, whose emphasis on technique has helped Monique grow as a dancer at any age. She is inspired by the talent of CADDC’s board members and dancers and is proud to serve alongside them.

Now 65, Monique continues to dance with joy and gratitude, proving that movement truly is life. She hopes her journey serves as a testament to the power of persistence and the belief that it’s never too late to pursue your passion.

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“No matter your age, movement is life!” - Monique Angevin