Giwayen Mata is an Award Winning, All Sistah Dance, Percussion, and Vocal Ensemble
Powerful! describes the magnificent experience of seeing the 15 plus women of GIWAYEN MATA on stage dancing to and playing instruments once held sacred only for male priests but are now in the hands of those continuing the rich African traditions of drumming and dancing. Take a virtual journey to countries in Africa and the African Diaspora with GIWAYEN MATA, the award-winning, dynamic, soul-stirring, all sistah, dance, percussion, and vocal ensemble. Experience songs, rhythms, instruments and dances that celebrate the beauty and richness of African culture. GIWAYEN MATA (pronounced ghee-wah-yen mah-tah) is a Hausa (West Africa) term that means “Elephant Women.” It is the title given to women who are leaders of women’s organizations. Founded in 1993 by director, Omelika Kuumba, Gail Vernon Zuri Sami Ra Maati Jordan, Sarahn Henderson and seven other women, GIWAYEN MATA‘s mission is “to celebrate the lives of women and uplift our communities and our planet, while perpetuating the cultures of Africa and the African Diaspora through the study, creation, teaching, and presentation of artistic media including dances, rhythms, songs, poetry, and prose around the world.” In keeping with this mission GIWAYEN MATA has been wowing audiences and students of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds with drum and dance classes, workshops, and performances that are entertaining, energetic, thought provoking, empowering, interactive, and educational. Audiences throughout the South Eastern states and along the eastern seaboard from New York to Florida are often moved to their feet by the end and sometimes during their performances and people speak enthusiastically about how their experiences go beyond movement, sight, and sound.
Giwayen Mata African conducts dance classes that motivate people to get fit. African based movement is polyrhythmic so different parts of the body do different things at the same time. Those attending the African dance classes get a generous workout. Held weekly at the cutting edge Dance 411 Studios, people ages 3 - 70 enjoy this fun, invigorating experience to live drumming.
Keywords: African, Dance, World Music, Drums, Drumming, Women, Sisters, Atlanta, Dance Groups
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Giwayen Mata has been in business for 20 years.
What is your primary product or service?
Giwayen Mata is a performance arts company.
Giwayen Mata produces original works as well as traditional music, dance, and dramatic works from the African Diaspora.
What type of payments do you accept?
Cash, Credit Card, PayPal
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Omelika Kuumba is the Artistic Director
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
We make positive change in the world.
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