For Immediate Release: January 3, 2007

Contacts:
Christopher A. Sallak
Patron Services and Marketing Manager
574-284-4625 or csallak@saintmarys.edu
-or-
Melanie McDonald
Director of Media Relations
574-284-4579 or mmcdonal@saintmarys.edu

“Magbana” Brings African Dance and Drumming to O’Laughlin Auditorium

NOTRE DAME, Ind. — Performance. Education. Fun. Those three words sum up the Magbana Drum and Dance NYC experience. This professional company from New York City is made up of 15 drummers and dancers whose work integrates martial arts, modern dance, and world percussion. Magbana will be at O’Laughlin Auditorium in the Moreau Center for the Arts, Saint Mary’s College, on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Founder and artistic director Michael Markus graduated from Ithaca College and has spent more than 20 years researching different styles of drumming and dance. He has incorporated high energy, innovative choreography, original costumes and racial diversity into the company’s shows. He travels yearly to Guinea, West Africa to further his knowledge with masters of the national companies Les Ballets Africains de Guinea and Ballet Djoliba.

Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for senior citizens, $9 for SMC/ND staff, and $8 for students. Tickets are available through the Saint Mary’s College Box Office by visiting Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., or by calling 574-284-4626.

The Moreau Center for the Arts celebrates its 50th anniversary during the 2006-2007 season. Named in honor of the Very Reverend Basil Anthony Moreau, C.S.C., the founder of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, the facility consists of O’Laughlin Auditorium, Little Theatre, Moreau Art Galleries, studios, workshops and classrooms. For more information about any event at the Moreau Center for the Arts, please call 574-284-4626 or visit MoreauCenter.com.

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