Idy Ciss comes to us from Senegal. He credits his grandparents with his natural dance ability. They were well known in their village for their dancing, and it was from them that he received this gift. From the time he was five years old, the people from his village loved to watch him dance. He was always called upon to perform for special occasions and ceremonies. He credits the love and support of his family and neighbors as the catalyst, which led him to the field of professional dance. Idy is also a teacher and singer of traditional African songs. His professional debut was with Les Ballets Africans Kolaam Serere. He is also a former member of Ballets Africans. He has performed before presidents of several African countries and appeared on national television in Senegal. Idy is now a full time member of Muntu offering his expertise as a consultant, choreographer and principal dancer. Idy is a full time member of the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago offering his expertise as a consultant, choreographer and principal dancer. Idy teaches West African Dance classes at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago, Lycee Francais de Chicago, Soulistic Studio & Spa and Joel Hall Dance Center.
Idy was recently awarded The Joseph Holmes Award for Best Choreography in a Music/Dance Program for choreography of Dekkal Thiossane (Rebirth of Culture) by the Black Theater Alliance Awards, Inc
Idy will be teaching regulary on Thursdays at Pineapple!