Kyunkor, or the Witch Woman: An African Queen in America

Kyunkor, or the Witch Woman: An African Queen in America was about the life and journey of Asadata Dafora. Dafora emigrated from Sierra Leone to Europe where he studied music. His who life he had been an avid spectator of dance and during his early life changed his interest and passion from song to dance. His journey to become a renowned choreographer and producer was one of determination and passion. Dafora was not a typical dancer. He never received formal training; he was simply as observer of his own culture and had a knack for translating this understanding to others, who were trained. His notoriety was started through grassroots efforts and proved to have a profound affect on the dance world.

Dafora’s story was an inspiring journey to read about. I think it truly showed the persistence and faith in one’s that is needed to see it reach fruition. Dafora had the depression, his race, his new concept of dance, and lack of funding all stacked up against him. He pulled himself up from a small theater in lower Manhattan to the theater district. Along the way he gained the experience to continue to improve his concepts and ideas. He was a teacher, yet a student and observer in every aspect of the word. He used his surroundings and experiences to create works of art and expression that were well beyond their time in relation to Twentieth Century theater and what was seen as a performance piece back then. He improved and changed the way African culture was viewed in the media and in the process he paved the way for cinematic successes like Coming to America and theatrical Masterpieces like the Lion King on Broadway.

Mona Quarless
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