Zimbabwean rhythm, movement, singing, and marimba workshops

Please join us for this amazing opportunity in Bellingham on Sunday, July 26th, to learn Zimbabwean music, dance, drumming, and song.This hands-on workshop experience brings together extraordinary visiting artists from Zimbabwe for an opportunity to learn directly from masters of their traditions. Participants will explore Zimbabwean rhythms, movement, singing, and marimba in a welcoming, all-ages environment. No experience is necessary.

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

Two workshop sessions:

12:00 PM – 1:15 PM
• Ratie D - Singing
• Napoleon Jambwa - Drumming

1:30 PM – 2:45 PM
• John Mambira - Marimba
• Rujeko Dumbutshena - Dancing

ARTIST BIOS

John Mambira

Originally from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, John Mambira is the founder of the acclaimed band Bongo Love. Since arriving in the United States in 2007, he has shared the joy of Zimbabwean drumming, marimba, dance, and theater arts with audiences and students across the Pacific Northwest, earning a reputation as one of the region's most vibrant ambassadors of Zimbabwean culture.

Ratie D

A captivating vocalist and world music artist, Ratie D channels Zimbabwe's spirit through her powerful voice and contemporary sensibility. She has performed at Carnegie Hall and released her debut EP, Ink & Melodies, which blends traditional Zimbabwean influences with modern expression. Her music is a bridge between cultures, rooted in tradition and alive in the present.

Rujeko Dumbutshena

Rujeko Dumbutshena is a Zimbabwean-born dancer, teacher, cultural arts community organizer, and performing artist of African dance practices. She is currently an Assistant Professor in Dance at the University of Florida. Rujeko has performed and taught across the United States and internationally. For 16 years, she directed African music and dance camps featuring artists from across Africa and was an original cast member of the Broadway musical FELA!

Napoleon Jambwa

Born and raised in Highfield, Harare, Napoleon “Kudzie” Jambwa grew up steeped in Zimbabwe's musical traditions. Taught his first mbira song by his father at age five, he went on to master marimba, ngoma, hosho, and a range of modern instruments, while also developing skills in both traditional African and Western dance styles. He is a complete artist in every sense of the word.