Dance entertainment in Africa
- Sort by:
- Popular
-
A
Al-Tannoura Egyptian Heritage Dance Troupe
Egypt’s only Sufi dance troupe – far more raucous and colourful than white-clad Turkish dervishes – puts on a mesmerising performance at the Wikala of Al-Ghouri. It’s a great opportunity to see one of the medieval spaces in use; arrive about an hour ahead to secure a seat.
reviewed
-
B
Palmyra
The furthest on the ‘other end of the scale’ is Palmyra, a cavernous, dilapidated 1950s dancehall in an alley off Sharia 26th of July. It has a full Arab musical contingent, belly dancers who get better the more money is thrown at them, and an occasional singer or acrobat. In addition to the entrance fee, there’s a minimum charge of E£30, which basically covers a beer and a sheesha.
reviewed
-
C
Mzizi Arts Centre
The Mzizi Arts Centre, a smaller centre in a central office building, is a good place to view contemporary Kenyan art, craft, dance, literature and performance art. 'Cultural Personality Evenings', when Kenyan cultural stars give lectures, and sigana performances are held here.
reviewed
-
D
Companhia Nacional de Canto e Dança
Mozambique's renowned Companhia Nacional de Canto e Dança is based at the Casa de Cultura, near the intersection with Av Ho Chi Min. Rehearsals are often open to the public, and you can get schedules of upcoming performances.
reviewed
-
E
Nile Maxim
The best of the Nile cruise boats, run by the Marriott, is a relatively economical way to see a big-name star such as Randa or Asmahan, along with an à la carte menu. Go for the later sailing, as the show is less rushed.
reviewed
-
Mbehg-Ntame
Cultural Centre Mbehg-Ntame, run by a Frenchman named Cristophe, is located outside of town at PK12, and there are various dances and shows performed, as well as traditional meals served. Call Cristophe for more information.
reviewed
-
Alf Layla wa Layla
This is where The Thousand and One Nights meets Las Vegas: a kitsch confection of brightly coloured domes and arches in which you can eat dinner while watching an equally improbable belly-dancing extravaganza.
reviewed
-
F
Haroun al-Rashid
This old-fashioned-looking five‑star club – all red curtains and white marquee lights – is where the famous Dina undulates (though often not on Wednesday nights – call to check).
reviewed
-
G
Théâtre Daniel Sorano
This is Dakar's proudest theatre. The Ensemble Instrumental, the Ballet National du Sénégal and the Théâtre National du Sénégal perform here on occasion. Check listings magazines and posters for event updates.
reviewed
-
H
Que Pasa
Salsa is all the rage in Cape Town and this is one of the top clubs at which to practise. Classes are held on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, when the club has a regular party night, too.
reviewed
Advertisement
-
I
Mian Mian
Lofty palms, twinkling fairy lights and a spacious bar and dance space are hidden down a narrow alley. Very hip, even though the wannabe crowd aren't always as cool as they think they are.
reviewed
-
J
Scheherazade
Worth visiting for the gorgeous interior alone, all Orientalist fantasia complete with red velvet drapes – this doesn’t inspire a classier air in the patrons, however.
reviewed
-
K
Mwalimu Julius K Nyerere Cultural Centre
Traditional dance performances at 7pm on Friday, and the best place to find out about traditional dance events around the city.
reviewed
-
L
Casa de Cultura
Opposite Hotel Embaixador, with theatre and dance performances. Information on upcoming programs is posted by the entrance.
reviewed
-
M
-
N
-
Cape Town City Ballet
This company, a lean troupe of 24 dancers, can trace its history back to 1934. They usually perform at Artscape, the Baxter Theatre and, in summer, at Maynardville Open-Air Theatre.
reviewed
