Keur Khaleyi African Dance Company is a multi-generational, family-oriented, traditionally-driven African dance company. “Keur Khaleyi” means "the house of children" in Wolof, a language spoken in Senegal.
Keur Khaleyi was founded in 2009, and has served Baltimore for fifteen years. The company got its start with sisters Jihan and Ayana Von Hendricks dancing, with their brother Shakai playing the drums. Since those beginnings, the company has grown to become a vital part of Baltimore’s cultural landscape, promoting, providing, and producing African culture to the community at large through cultural events, dance classes, and other educational activities. All ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate in the activities.
Keur Khaleyi’s home is the Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cultural Center in the heart of Baltimore City's Bromo Tower Arts and Entertainment District. Keur Khaleyi serves the Baltimore metropolitan area in several ways - it provides dance training to all ages and skill levels, it provides activities centered in African cultures and practices that community members can enjoy and learn from, and it provides a space for vendors who sell African products (jewelry, cloth, beauty products, etc.) an opportunity to sell their products and other related services.