Ayiti Rasanble! (“Haiti, come together!”) celebrates the indomitable spirit of the Caribbean nation with dance and musical groups reflecting its resilience and pride. Feet of Rhythm Afro-Haitian Dance Company works to preserve traditional dance forms under the vision of founder Nadia Dieudonné, the dancer and choreographer best known for her infectious interpretations of banda, the dance of Ghede, the revered Haitian spiritual figure of the underworld.

Founded by Öneza Lafontant, a native of Bakonwa, Haiti, Kongo’s music represents vodou, the spiritual fabric of Haiti, and perpetuates its message of love, truth, and justice through drumming and song. Master dancer and Tamboula d’Haiti artistic director Peniel Guerrier joins Kongo in an expression of folkloric footwork.

Named after an 18th century revolutionary mystic, La Troupe Makandal channels the power of traditional Afro-Haitian music and dance in tribute to their late artistic director, master drummer and NEA National Heritage Fellow Frisner Augustin, who passed away suddenly this March. The exciting and political Raram blends the traditional rara horns and drums of bann a pye (band on foot) carnival music.