Her Story: A photographic biography of a dancer

Baaba Maal

The talented artist, songwriter, and vocalist Diodj N'dione captivates audiences with raw talent and boundless passion. It's hard to describe the depth of my love, admiration, and gratitude for the legendary griot Baaba Maal. Baaba's influence has been truly magical in my life. Sending all my love to both of you. The Festival Les Blues Du Fleuve 2023 was incredibly exciting! Performing at the festival was a dream come true! Be still my beating heart.

The Spirit Chose me

"This enchanting photograph captures the moment when I was selected to be photographed by the legendary dancer Katherine Dunham at Stanford University in May 1989. Having followed in her footsteps, Spirit chose me to pursue a career as a Philosophical anthropologist while also leading a life deeply intertwined with dance. This timeless photo was taken by Mr. Kenneth Murray."

Sabar In the Park

Franchesska Berry presents Sabar In the Park, a weekend event featuring the highest level of Traditional West African Arts, Culture, Dance, and Oral Tradition in the Pacific Northwest.

Som La Bi Joli

"Som La Bi Joli" translates to "The Sweeter than Sweet." Kaila Tsutakawa,(rip) Genevieve Lapidus, and I form the ensemble's core. Your unwavering dedication to dance fills me with deep gratitude. Som La Bi Joli left an indelible mark everywhere we traveled and danced, and the high-caliber performances we produced fostered unity and love.

Doudou Ndiaye Rose

The late Doudou Ndiaye Rose, an extraordinary drummer, composer, and the creator of Sabar, Senegal's traditional drum, was affectionately known as Papa Rose. He was the first to introduce the beauty of Senegalese music to the world. Papa Rose means everything to me. He took care of me from the moment I arrived home in Dakar. He was my world in Senegal. I am incredibly fortunate to have my other talented family of artists supporting me and holding me close to their hearts.

Ancestors and the D'Ancestors

I am praying, feeling whole, waiting to cross the water to Goree Island to honor my Ancestors and the D'Ancestors. No land mass can define me.

Rhythm and respect

Lecturing and performing 'Rhythm and Respect' with Prof. Stancil Campbell at the American University of Cairo was a precipice in my life. While hopscotching at five years old, I envisioned myself with stern stipulations of being a good person all my life. I would be able to teach in Cairo on an important B'Earth Day. This step toward my center, grounded in my true self, is MANIFESTED.

Goddess of the Sea

This performance was exceptional, and the transformation experience was captivating. The music featured mesmerizing Tabla and Violin solos, paying homage to Yemanya, the goddess of the sea, adorned in her colors of blue and white.

Elation

I appear so happy in this treasured photograph because I was genuinely elated. I had dedicated myself to hard work, including writing, dancing, and choreographing, and had finally succeeded in uniting my ensemble and the community. This was all to honor my teacher, the late great drummer Abdoulaye Diakite, alongside the talented Sabar Idrissa Gueye and the unique Kissima Diabate, all at once. It was a "Family Affair" unlike any other. In this photo, my heart is overflowing with joy as I gaze at my family and the exuberant community.

Sacred Marabah

"The full photograph is pure joy. Behind me is my Sacred Marabah. She has been my guide, treasure, protector, and spiritual advisor since I arrived in Seattle. There is no me here without her. She has been present at every production and is the driving force behind every production. I contact her immediately from every country that I am blessed to visit. My deepest love and gratitude to my Sacred Marabah."

The Lion'In

"The LION IN announcement is mesmerizing. Many have never seen a baobab tree or a forest with unique upside-down limbs. Notice the spacing between the trees; if the limbs ever touch, they will break off."

Diarama

"DIARAMA" sharing Gratitude and Appreciation. This announcement is sublime. I've been an obedient custodian of our culture. The Aspiratinal Le Femme Fatale, Mareme Faye (rip), will never be forgotten. The Eminent Baba Assane Konte of Kankouran West African Dance Company graces the cover. When Spirit advised me to produce, I produced. Yaye Mareme, I miss you every day.

Peace & Love

Franchesska Yvette Berry, a Soul Train dancer and Distinguished Fulbright Scholar, serves as a Cultural ambassador with peace, grace, and gratitude.

Backan Seck

The great Backan Seck is my first Sabar teacher. In 1987, I stood before a beautiful drum I had never seen in a small club in San Francisco. The lights went dim, and I looked up, and Backan proudly stood there. Backan struck that drum, and the beat went through me. His gaze instructed me to move my feet and attempt to fly with my long arms. He comforted me while I was striving to get the rhythm the whole time. That was my first Sabar lesson from the best. I have been dancing Sabar ever since. I am deeply indebted to my teacher, mentor, friend, and master drummer. My most profound appreciation, Backan. To open for you, then Baaba Maal in Fouta in 23, is a dream come true. All my love and gratitude.

Danse Africaine

Danse africaine Essence fe'minine He'ritage

Ms. Naomi Gedo Diouf, Ms. Franchesska Berry. Ms. Mabiba Baegue, Ms. Marie Basse Wiles

Dance is Everything

This photo was taken with Youssou N'Dour after a wonder-filled performance in Seattle. Kaila, aka Kai-Kai, Manna, Youssou N'Dour, Aziz Faye, and Adama Diop are seated from the left. This was an exceptional night with my dance family. Dreams Are Due. All my love.

Le photographe de Baaba Maal

Could I have been happier at home in Fouta with Baaba and my family of 37 years? The answer is no. Being with my Bada Seck, Backan's big brother, aka my heart and drummer, was a surprise. Be still, my beating heart. In tears to see my Spiritual Guide, the wonderful Mansour Seck, I exclaimed all my love and deep appreciation for him and Baaba sharing with me in 1987. My tears flowed as he said he loved me, too. Rest in Power, Beloved Mansour Seck.

Graduation Day

I am honored to have graduated summa cum laude. When asked if I was there to be interviewed, I wanted to ensure the university was worthy of my association with them. Being invited to dance traditional West African Dance at the Graduation Ceremony was the icing on the cake, honoring all that came before me and my Ancestors and D'ancestors.