Kofago Dance Ensemble Makes Its IABD Debut at the 2026 International Conference & Festival of Blacks in Dance
This February, the Kofago Dance Ensemble reached a powerful milestone: our very first performance at the International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD)—an experience that affirmed why we do what we do, and who we do it for.
Held in Atlanta, Georgia (Feb. 4–8, 2026), IABD’s Annual International Conference & Festival gathered Black dance artists, educators, scholars, and cultural leaders from around the world for several days of classes, performances, and community-building.
Our Performance: “Soul Resonance: The Spiritual Journey” (Choreography by Patriann Edwards)
Kofago was honored to perform “Soul Resonance: The Spiritual Journey,” a profound work by Patriann Edwards. This piece carried us—and the audience—through a shared reflection on spirit, memory, resilience, and transformation. Stepping onto the IABD stage for the first time felt like stepping into a larger lineage: one where Black movement traditions are not only celebrated, but protected, expanded, and passed forward.
Training, Growth, and Learning From Featured Educators
Beyond the performance, our dancers immersed themselves fully in the conference experience—taking classes with featured dance educators and engaging in the kind of training that sharpens technique while deepening cultural understanding. IABD is known for creating space where artists can learn across generations and disciplines—through technique classes, sessions, and performance programming that supports both excellence and community.
Why This Moment Matters
For Kofago, attending IABD wasn’t just a trip—it was a statement:
- that our artists belong in national and international spaces where Black dance is centered
- that our work is part of a broader cultural ecosystem
- that learning, exchange, and artistic development are essential to our mission
We left Atlanta inspired by the caliber of artistry, the generosity of the community, and the reminder that Black dance is not one story—it’s many stories, moving together.
Next Stop: IABD 2027 in Chicago!
And we’re not stopping here. We’re already planning for the 2027 conference in Chicago, and we can’t wait to return with even more intention—stronger, sharper, and ready to build deeper relationships with the IABD community.
Thank You
To everyone who cheered us on, supported our travel, and continues to believe in our work: thank you. Moments like this are built by community. And we’re excited for what’s ahead—on stage, in the studio, and in every space where our culture lives.
Stay connected for behind-the-scenes photos, reflections from our dancers, and updates as we prepare for Chicago 2027.