"I loved your costumes and the way you danced, so freely and with so much energy". - Allie R.

Jeh Kulu… Building community since 1993

Jeh Kulu was founded in 1993 by a local dancer, Padma Gordon, with the support of local drummers. Determined to foster their love of the form, they began teaching all over Vermont with a dedicated following of students.

In 1997 six members of the troupe traveled to Senegal and Guinea to deepen their understanding of the rhythms and culture. There they studied with Ismael Bangoura and Sidiki Sylla. The potential for collaboration was exciting, and in the fall, Jeh Kulu acquired artist visas to bring Bangoura and Sylla to Vermont. They have remained members of Jeh Kulu and are currently the Musical and Artistic Directors of the company.

Under the direction of our Master Artists along with strong leadership from our general manager, Zyck Baggett, and our assistant artistic director Jamaica White, Jeh Kulu has evolved and grown in exciting ways. We now feature four Master Artists and work with several other West African performers and teachers living in Vermont and across the country.
Seven Days Stuck in Vermont 52: Jeh Kulu's West African Dance & Drum

The group now has nearly two dozen members, including a junior company! All of our members are dedicated to the study of West African dance, music and culture. With the highest respect for the form and its significance in American heritage, Jeh Kulu continues to expand and share what we love with others. Our weekly classes, and performance and educational program are high quality, exciting, and authentic.