Imani African Dance & Drumming - Reviews and Endorsements
The Imani Edu-Tainers Dance Company's performances continue to thrill and educate audiences throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. We have received accolades from our various supporters and are very appreciative of their acknowledgements. We will continue to present the highest quality traditional African dances and the purposes for which our ancestors created them. Thank you for your support and for believing that our youth will strive to make the world a better place as long as we, the elders, continue to do our part.
- - - - -
"I was at the Fulton with my family and friends to see and hear your recital on Saturday, June 15th. BRAVO! The drums were thrilling, the costumes spectacular and the dance was impressive and passionate! Lancaster is indeed lucky to have you and the Fulton was lucky to host your talent. Thank you for an inspirational evening."
- Kathleen Collins, Artistic Director, Fulton Opera House
"Countdown Lancaster '96 turned out to be a excellent success again this year and I wanted to express my gratitude to you for making this event a delight for all who participated! Each year we try to include a wide variety of performances to spark the interest of just about everyone and your group added a terrific flavor to the potpourri of entertainment. I have since received many commnents of praise on the performances and would like to pass this commendation on to you. Thank you for sharing your talents with the community of Lancaster, for supporting this event with you time and effort, and for helping us bring in a new year with splendid pizzazz! It was a pleasure to work with you!"
- Jennifer Chunko, Countdown Lancaster
"Thank you for dancing at our Community Celebration. The African dance with drums was very entertaining and helped make our Celebration a success. Your contribtion not only shows your generosity but also shows your dedication to the Health Center's mission - to provide quality, comprehensive medical and dental care to all patients regardless of their ability to pay.... Thanks again for your generous contribution. Your commitment and support really do make a difference in the lives of the people we serve."
- Phil Starr, Executive Director,
Health Center Community Celebration
"The dance performance on March 31 was wonderful! The well attended crowd that night was commenting on how much they enjoyed the music, costumes, and dance. Thank you for participating during our opening reception of the Lancaster City Art Grant Recipients Exhibition. It was very nice working with you."
- Ellen M. Rosenholtz, Executive Director, Community Gallery of Lancaster
"...While Mrs. Mann-McFarlane has perfected the art of cultural dance, it is her interaction with the participants that leaves the most profound impact. She teaches self-respect and discipline, qualities needed beyond the realm of dance.... It is obvious that these young people take pride in their art. Each member displays dedication and commitment as they strive for excellence. I support the dance company because it provides a structured atmosphere where individuals learn culture, fitness and fun. ... the Emani Edu-Tainers Dance Company is destined to produce many success stories."
- Kelly S. Ballentine, Esq., Program Director, Boys and Girls Club of Lancaster, Inc
"I congratulate you on your successful summer recital. I attended the event on June 14, and thoroughly enjoyed it. From the enthusiasm displayed by the audience, you should be gaining new class members next year. I was amazed at the high energy level exhibited by the drummers and dancers. It made the show! Your commitment to African dance is a great community asset. I commend you for this effort and the dedication you bring to the Dance Company. It looks like so much fun, but I know it takes constant practice and hard work. Congratulations again on a great event."
- Janice C. Stork, Mayor
"As young drummers furiously pound out the beats of their African ancestors, the barefoot dancers embrace the sound, and dance like the wind.... They leap and whirl, slapping their feet on the floor, as if they are making their bodies extensions of the drumbeats."
- Susan Jurgelski, Staff Writer, Lancaster New Era Magazine
"You are a B-I-G hit in Goldsboro, so please plan to come again... We look forward to having you all. Thanks for all you did to ensure our Kwanzaa a success!
- Anne Hurrey and TCM, Inc., The Cultural Movement African Dance Company
"Each dance has a specific meaning and is representative of a particular group in West Africa. The 'Voyage of the Drums' depicts the traveling through the Caribbean, southern parts of the United States and the return to West Africa."
- Natalie Kaire, Intelligencer Journal