Afrique Aya Drum and Dance Company

Afrique Aya Drum and Dance Company Multi-ethnic grp. of Dancers & Drummers sharing their passion for West African rhythms and dance, as taught by Angelo Yao: born in the Ivory Coast.

AFRIQUE AYA is a multi-ethnic group of dancers and drummers dedicated to enjoying and sharing the music and culture of West Africa. Inspired by rhythms and rituals from Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), AFRIQUE AYA celebrates the synergy of nature, spirit, movement, and percussion. Check out CLASS TIMES and LOCATIONS our website: https://www.afriqueaya.org
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on classes. In West Africa, dancing and drumming are catalysts, grounded in a rich tradition of story-telling. Through performances and workshops designed to bring people together, AFRIQUE AYA connects with earth-based, lyric movement and music that convey a vibrant, universal narrative. AFRIQUE AYA offers performances, workshops, and residencies in Northwest Arkansas and throughout the United States. Director Kouakou Yao “Angelo” offers weekly drum and dance classes open to all ages. Angelo also heads up an Afropop dance band, and he leads cultural exchange tours to various West African countries annually. Angelo's been dancing and drumming his whole life, professionally since he was 14 years old. Here's what one student says:

"Over the years I have had the opportunity to drum with many instructors. Angelo is by far the easiest to learn from. His relaxed style makes it easy for anybody at any level to learn from the very basics to the most complex rhythms. He makes drumming enjoyable for all the people that he plays with. Northwest Arkansas is blessed to have such an accomplished musician that is willing to share his traditions." Our Blog: http://afriqueaya.wordpress.com

We just loved being part of this event at Owl Creek Elementary!
03/19/2026

We just loved being part of this event at Owl Creek Elementary!

Afrique Aya in the current KNWA news; 1st quarter of 2026!
03/04/2026

Afrique Aya in the current KNWA news; 1st quarter of 2026!

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Field Trip Friday is all about trying something new, and this week, Jaclyn and Ashlyn brought the energy. They went to Mount Sequoyah to check out a West African da…

We are looking forward to being part of this incredible community event celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. MLK Jr. t...
01/14/2026

We are looking forward to being part of this incredible community event celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. MLK Jr. this Friday evening with Northwest Arkansas MLK Council at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Hope to see you there!

Planning a visit to Crystal Bridges? Check out our seasonal visitor’s guides, browse our event calendar, or use our Plan a Visit page to learn about hours, parking, and what to expect while you’re here.

10/04/2025

In loving memory of our beloved sister Gianella. Afrique Aya performance in 2018/Fort Smith AR

05/30/2025

We hope you will join us for this event celebrating the incredible work of Aiding Survivors - Arkansas!


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Mt. Sequoyah, 150 North Skyline Drive
Fayetteville, AR

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