Otsfm logo

Teachers at the Old Town School

Idy Ciss

West African Dance

Idy Ciss comes to us from Senegal. He credits his grandparents with his natural dance ability. They were well known in their village for their dancing, and it was from them that he received this gift. From the time he was five years old, the people from his village loved to watch him dance. He was always called upon to perform for special occasions and ceremonies. He credits the love and support of his family and neighbors as the catalyst which led him to the field of professional dance. Idy is also a teacher and singer of traditional African songs. His professional debut was with Les Ballets Africans Kolaam Serere. He is also a former member of Ballets Africans. He has performed before presidents of several African countries and appeared on national television in Senegal. Idy is a full time member of Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago, offering his expertise as a consultant, choreographer, and principal dancer.

Started at the Old Town School in September of 1998


Group Classes for the session beginning 10/23/2023

West African Dance 1 with Idy Ciss · Joshua Guy

Dance to live drumming! Experience the spirit of Africa through movement and music. Learn traditional dances that celebrate momentous occasions or support the fundamentals of ceremony. In this high-energy class, your body will come alive and your heart will begin to beat to the rhythm of the drum.

$224 ($204 members)

10/24/2023 – 12/12/2023 (8 meetings)

Tuesdays · 5:00 PM – 6:20 PM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

West African Dance 3 with Idy Ciss · Joshua Guy

$224 ($204 members)

10/24/2023 – 12/12/2023 (8 meetings)

Tuesdays · 6:30 PM – 7:50 PM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

West African Dance 1 with Idy Ciss · Joshua Guy

$224 ($204 members)

10/24/2023 – 12/12/2023 (8 meetings)

Tuesdays · 8:00 PM – 9:20 PM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

West African Dance - Family with Idy Ciss · Joshua Guy

for kids with birthdays between: 11/29/2017 and 10/29/2021

$216 ($196 members)

10/29/2023 – 12/17/2023 (8 meetings)

Sundays · 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

West African Dance 1 with Idy Ciss · Joshua Guy

Dances from Senegal, Ivory Coast, Mali and more. Live drumming, too!

$224 ($204 members)

10/29/2023 – 12/17/2023 (8 meetings)

Sundays · 10:45 AM – 12:05 PM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

West African Dance 2 with Idy Ciss · Joshua Guy

Dances from Senegal, Ivory Coast, Mali and more. Live drumming, too!

$224 ($204 members)

10/29/2023 – 12/17/2023 (8 meetings)

Sundays · 12:15 PM – 1:35 PM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave