707 955-5780
I am an experienced arts educator, professional theater performer, circus artist, and sports coach with forty years experience mentoring youth k-12th and families in inner urban areas. I have taught theater arts including acting, clowning, juggling, stilt walking, jazz, tap, ballet, modern and West African Drumming/Dance, also various physical activities ranging from gymnastics to basketball, football and track.
We are launching #CommunityCulturalEnlightenment.
From an educators perspective, the authentic African story, if not the entire stories of the POC community has been omitted from the education system and replaced with many things that simply are not true. Therefore, by sharing and engaging in Community building Cultural offerings, we Enlighten those who participate, thus giving them the opportunity to learn and know these great joys for themselves.
I am listed in the Arts Education Resource Directory, partnered with Sacramento START and various school districts to produce performing arts programs which enlightened all.
Lions Den Education Institute Founder, Drummer, Dancer, Choreographer
Tyehimba Kokayi-Head Lion
At 15 in Oakland, I began taking formal dance classes, and by the age of 18 began my dance career while teaching gymnastics at a dance studio in Alameda, Ca.
My formal training expanded to include Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Modern and Dunham, while concurrently performing with the Oakland Children’s Chorus and The Oakland Youth Chorus. I later moved to Sacramento and began studying theater under the late great Dr Thomas Michael Gates, mentored in dance with James Wheatley of Celebration Arts and Pepper Von of Step 1 Dance Academy, choreographed with the Black Repertory Dance Troupe of UC Davis and began training in West African Dance with Linda Faye Johnson, Zak and Niaomi Diouf, the late greats Alasane Kane and Abdoulia Diakite by joining “CEEDO” (Chedo) West African Drum and Dance Troupe in 1986. I learned the Djembe and mastered it while completing ten years of rigorous training and founded Lions Den Entertainment, which was incorporate in 2002. Exactly 20 years later, in 2022, I established The Lions Den Education Institute, to further educate about West African culture. I also teach ZUMBA to encourage some form of movement. I received a Neighborhood Arts Program grant in 2006, began and served as President of The West African Drum and Drum Club at CSUS, from March 2007 until March 2008, hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Ethnic Studies, minor in Dance, a Master of Arts Degree in Education. For 2023, I am a grant recipient and relocating the Den to a new area. Now it 2024 and we have found a New Home!
WEST AFRICAN DRUMMING AND DANCE
Give yourself the enriching opportunity to learn the fun filled, playful art and skill of West African Drumming and Dance in a safe and caring environment.
The Dynamic Drum and Dance Duo, Tyehimba Kokayi and Ben Professor Slaps Isaac's passion has led them to become the ONLY local Senegalese West African Drum and Dance instructors in Sonoma County. They supported and joined up with the Mendocino County Crew as Drum and Dance teachers there and realized our counties use a lot of the same survival skills as each other.
They have since gone on to train many children and adults in a variety of skills that range from just being a casual backyard drummer, to a well skilled professional performing artist.
This is a Family Affair... so come, be a part of the family and
"Get in da Den... the Lion's Den!"
Private Lessons Or Group Classes Available On Demand!
Call now, for rates and scholarships availabile.
Come Be Part of Our Community
LDE Institute is always looking to partner with like minded groups and individuals as we move to preserve and share the rich beauty, heritage and positivity of the experiences of people of color...
We look forward to passing on the enlightenment shared by our ancestors, as we continue to contribute to building caring, healthy, inclusive communities today.
Also Jazz Dance, Tap Dance and Zumba
FAQ
How do I pay for LDEI classes?
Right now we are affording you the freedom to pay by your choice of cash, check, CashApp, Venmo, Zelle!
What should I wear for West African Dance class?
*Don't forget your lapah. What's a lapah you ask?
(simply put; a favorite fabric to dance in, wrapped around your waist)
*Don't forget your djembe, IF you have one (for drumming).
*Also, loose crotched pants (sweats or basketball shorts) to assist with the ease of Drumming and/or Dancing!
*Students with a valid student ID are 1/2 off
*Bring lots of water ...it's important to stay hydrated
*Warm cover up layers for after class (we want you to take care of self: sweat and chill don't mix ...so self-care means, bundle up after class.
We'll SEE You SOON!!!!
Are your classes family friendly?
Yes!
You're gonna love West African Drum/Dance Class
*Kids are absolutely welcomed
this is a family affair... we encourage movement, drumming and enlightenment for our young as well... so much so, we allow children under 10yrs *FREE* with a paid adult
(However please keep in mind, there is NO childcare available... so you will have to maintain a diligent and watchful eye!
Can we still join your classes after the term has started?
Yes!
Anyone can Drop-in ...at Any Time! Please feel Welcomed.
Can anyone participate or just watch?
Yes!
All of our classes are open to the public.
Anyone can come in and watch ...and even participate!
We will always encourage participation.
(even if modified movement is required)
What are your rates and fees?
LDEI rates are $30.00 Drop In $100.00 per Month