Francis Kofi

(Hayor Bibimma African Dance Company Artistic Director/Choreographer)

Renowned drummer and dancer Francis Kofi descended from a long line of West African drum and dance heritage. He has performed and taught in North America, Europe, Asia and throughout Africa. Initially trained by his grandfather, master drummer and composer of Gbenordu Haborbor Troupe, Francis began his career as a performer at the age of six. He has been touring professionally since age fifteen as a master drummer, dancer and choreographer.

Kofi is an Ewe, of the Wotsi (“Waachi”) sub-division in Togo. He has studied and performed extensively in various parts in Ghana, as well as in Togo, Benin, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. His is accomplished in a vast repertoire of traditional drumming pieces and accompanying dances.

Kofi was a dancer and master drummer with the Ghana Dance ensemble for many years, originally based at the University of Ghana (Legon). The ensemble was later established at the National Theatre (Accra) as the National Dance Company of Ghana. During this association, Kofi performed in many international venues, winning rave reviews and awards.

Kofi has taught in the United States at several universities and in 1996/97 was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship/Artist-In-Residence at the State University of New York College at Fredonia.

When in Ghana, he established the Hayor dance Company in Accra. Since then, he has dedicated his effort to bringing cultural awareness to local communities through drumming and dance workshop, classes and performance. As artistic director of Hayor Bibimma Dance Theater, he seeks to preserve the traditional music and dance of his ancestors and share its’ heritage. Selected as member of the Minnesota State Arts Board and Compas Global Arts roster, Francis Kofi regularly teaches dance, drumming workshops and stories at grade schools and high schools. Teaching the richness of his culture is a fulfilling and dynamic way to share his passion, knowledge and expertise.