A fully costumed Balanta followed, with African dance and story telling at its finest. We got our first look at the men, not that we haven't seen them before. But this is an effort for the first time to produce a touring company of the same calibre as the National Ballet. In this number the full company wove in dancers who were attending the conference but who are not part of the regular troup. It was an interesting idea with lots of potential for incorporating local people from the various regions in which the company performs. Of course, the men get to preen in the Balanta and go through their rituals of challenge and courtship. It was an entertaining performance. After a short intermission the company came back with another well costumed and well danced Bougarabou/Ekonkon. Of course the show ended with a fast moving sabar number including audience participation.

The drumming in the show was absolutely top notch and the crowd was on the edge of its seat for most of the night. The drummers were also from Senegal and Guinea and featured Fode bangoura, Thiokho Diagne, Brigo Gueye, Mamadou Guisse, Abdou M'baye, Babacar Seck and Mangue Sylla. Narration for the show was supplied by Mamadou Diouck, who played the talking drum.

Les Enfants du Soleil has the potential to develop into a really fine touring company and its an idea that is long over due. In restrospect it seems strange that it has taken so long for a touring company to form. After all, so many of the talented dancers and drummers of the various national companies are here in the US now. A touring company may also be a good option for regional conferences where the community does not have the depth or strength of experience to stage a full, well done concert. The Artistic Director and Chereographer is Pape N'Diaye. Malang Bayo is the Assistant Choreographer, with Dionne Thomas serving as the Production Manager.