August 5-11, 2004

artpicks

Jubilee al Fresco

DANCE

It's hard to imagine a better way to spend a hot summer evening than outdoors at the Mann watching the brilliantly exuberant Les Ballets Africains, the national dance company of the Republic of Guinea. For the geographically challenged, Guinea lies in sub-Saharan West Africa, with borders on the Atlantic Ocean as well as with neighboring Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Upper Volta, Mali and Senegal. There are four distinct regions within Guinea as well. The traditions, stories and dances of these diverse places make the country a rich cultural mix. They also provide Ballets Africains mesmerizing material and they relish it. The troupe of dancers, acrobats, storytellers, drummers and musicians blend all this into a joyful, seamless, highly theatrical outburst.

Founded in 1952 by choreographer Keita Fodeba, Les Ballets Africains also holds honors as the continent's oldest touring company. It made its first U.S. visit in 1959 and has been back regularly since. The troupe generally performs around a theme; this year it's "Jubilee!," honoring the company's 50-year history. Don't expect to sit quietly applauding. They'll likely send you into motion as well.

Les Ballets Africains, Sat., Aug. 7, 8 p.m., $25-$33, Mann Center for the Performing Arts, 52nd St. and Parkside Ave., 215-893-1999.

—Janet Anderson