Diamano Coura at Coliseum 60

Press release

Following Outstanding Coliseum 60 Performance, Diamano Coura Announces 32nd Annual Collage des Cultures Africaines, March 11-14, 2027, in Oakland

Oakland cultural arts organization builds on a memorable community performance and invites the public to its signature 2027 gathering.

OAKLAND, Calif. (October 23, 2026) - Following an outstanding performance at Coliseum 60, Diamano Coura West African Dance Company is inviting the public to the 32nd Annual Collage des Cultures Africaines, March 11-14, 2027, in Oakland, California.

Held September 18, 2026, at Youth UpRising, Coliseum 60 brought residents, artists, families and community leaders together under the theme “One Community. One Legacy. One Future.” Diamano Coura’s dancers and drummers brought extraordinary precision, energy and cultural artistry to the celebration, creating one of the event’s most memorable experiences.

“We, Quixote Atkins, Alannah Atkins, VillageGIVE, Youth UpRising and Coliseum 60, extend our sincere appreciation to Diamano Coura West African Dance Company for sharing its extraordinary artistry, energy and cultural traditions with our community. We honor Mama Naomi Gedo Diouf, Executive/Artistic Director, and the cultural legacy she built alongside her late husband, Dr. ‘Papa’ Zakarya Diouf, Founder and Director. We also thank Dedeh Jaimah for her generous coordination and support; Nikka Maynard, Co-Artistic Director, and Ibrahima Diouf, Choreographer, for sharing their insights; the exceptional dancers and drummers of Diamano Coura; and everyone who joined us at Coliseum 60. Their artistry and presence helped make the celebration meaningful, memorable and joyful.”- Quixote Atkins

Established in 1975, Diamano Coura is an Oakland-based nonprofit African arts organization dedicated to preserving, presenting and teaching African and African Diaspora music, dance and culture. Its name means “those who bring the message.” Under the artistic leadership of Mama Naomi Gedo Diouf, the company continues the enduring vision and cultural legacy she developed alongside the late Dr. “Papa” Zakarya Diouf through performance, education, youth development and community engagement.

The 32nd Annual Collage des Cultures Africaines will continue that tradition of cultural exchange and celebration. The Oakland gathering will take place March 11-14, 2027. The community is encouraged to join the celebration and follow Diamano Coura’s official channels for program and participation details.

Coliseum 60 has created a dedicated online tribute featuring Diamano Coura’s complete performance, artist interview, edited films and event photography. Visitors may watch, download and share the media through the collection presented below.