Sidiki Conde and Toukounou

Although paralyzed from polio at the age of fourteen, Sidiki Conde was determined to overcome his handicap.  Sent to live with his grandfather in a village deep in the forest, he managed to build his upper body strength and learned to walk on his hands.  During the ceremony in which young men his age dance time-honored steps into manhood, Conde struggled to reconstruct the traditional steps by dancing on his hands instead of his feet. His performance was met with rousing applause and acclamation!

He went on to be not only a renowned dancer, but also an advocate for changing the perception of people of disabilities. Today Conde continues to emphasize dance comes from the heart, transcending any disability.

This celebration of international music—and the joy of life—definitely is another “don’t miss” Untermyer Performing Arts Council program under the stars!