Echoes of Africa: Celebrating Culture, Rhythm, and Community

In 2025, the Charlotte African Drum and Dance Collective (CADDC) was proud to present Echoes of Africa, a free workshop series made possible through Culture Blocks, a community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County.

Held at Bette Rae Thomas Recreation Center in Charlotte, the series brought the community together through the powerful traditions of African drumming and dance. Participants had the opportunity to learn from accomplished guest artists while experiencing the joy, energy, and cultural richness of these traditions firsthand.

The series featured an incredible lineup of guest artists, including internationally experienced multi-arts specialist Danny “Diallo” Hinds, renowned drummer and educator Gregory Ince, West African dance specialist Wesley L. Williams Jr., and talented percussionist Kenzi Presswood, whose specialty includes youth drum instruction.

From the rhythms of the drums to the movement of the dance, each workshop created an opportunity for participants of different ages and backgrounds to connect with African culture in an engaging, hands-on way.

Echoes of Africa was more than a workshop series; it was an invitation to experience culture, build community, and keep traditional African arts alive through shared movement and music.

We are grateful to Culture Blocks, Mecklenburg County, our guest artists, and everyone who showed up, danced, drummed, learned, and helped make the series such a memorable experience.

These are the moments that create lasting echoes of Africa in our community.