Gallery - Mama Yeye

March 2-4, 2009

Michigan Technological University Department of Visual and Performing Arts and the Visiting Women and Minority Lecturer Series presented a series of workshops, an open discussion, and a class presentation by Mama Yeye.

Click images below to enlarge.

Mama Yeye, a dancer, choreographer, playwright, and teacher, visited Michigan Tech on March 2-4, to present free hands-on workshops for Michigan Tech students and the community on African dance, Yoruba storytelling, and Sekere drum building. As Mama Yeye says, "Everyone loves the drums. Now learn how to move to the rhythm. Mama Yeye gives you the basics so you can move, dance, sing, and enjoy yourself."

Raised in a Yoruba family in Philadelphia, Apetebii Yeye Olori Oriyomi—"Mama Yeye"—takes her inspiration as an artist from the variety of ethnic rhythms, tastes, sounds, and voices of the African diaspora that have been part of her life, ranging from West Philly to Nigeria, New Orleans, New York City, Jamaica, and her new home base of Atlanta. She delights in teaching the arts of Africa because it is an opportunity to create positive change. She uplifts the Yoruba code of "Iwapele," which means good character, and has presented workshops for many colleges, universities, and theatre conferences throughout the country.

Mama Yeye: Photos, video memories of her visit
Keweenaw Now, March 8, 2009

Moving to the music (Mama Yeye)
Mining Gazette, March 5, 2009

Mama Yeye Connects Cultures Through Song, Dance and Stories
Tech Today, March 5, 2009

Mama Yeye to present African dance, storytelling, drumming at MTU
Keweenaw Now, March 3, 2009

Learning the art of Africa: Mama Yeye workshops
Michigan Tech Lode, February 25, 2009

Choreographer, Dancer Mama Yeye to Share African Dance, Storytelling, Drumming
Tech Today, February 24, 2009