About

About Us

In Swahili, Harambee means "let us pull together". Harambee Dance Company pulls together the essence of African and African-American dance and music presenting it from an innovative and exciting new contemporary perspective. Artistic Director and resident choreographer Sandella Malloy has developed a high-energy repertoire that pulls together African-based movement, modern dance forms, live percussion and original music, and vibrant costumes into captivating performances reflecting the majesty of the African Diaspora.

In 1992 husband and wife team Sandella and Frank Malloy founded Harambee Dance Company in Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston was one of the largest ports of entry for African slaves and remains the heart of the Gullah traditional, which is a blend of African and western cultures. The couple relocated to New York City in 1996 and Harambee Dance Company brought its own unique blend of traditional African dance vocabulary, modern dance and contemporary themes to the tri-state area.

Sandella, Frank and their son/musical director Frank IV are the nucleus of the Harambee dance family. The 25-member company, which continues to ignite audiences around the world, is comprised of exceptionally skilled dancers and musicians versed in a multiplicity of styles and related art forms.

Harambee Dance Company incorporates the traditional and contemporary to create a new style of African Dance. The company’s enlightening and thought provoking presentations challenge audiences to expand their perception of dance. These are "moves" that touch the soul, and are designed to build and strengthen a greater understanding of our diverse American cultural heritage.

Frank W Malloy III

Executive Director

Meet Our Directors

Harambee Dance Company

Sandella Malloy

Artistic Director

Sandella Malloy

For more information call 212 942 3566

Seeing The Bigger Picture4:30

Frank W Malloy IV

Musical Director

Photos by Derrick Garret

Lead Dancer

Linae McDonald