CB: Does the political situation there make it difficult for you to do your work?

MKM: The political situation is getting more stable. The conflict is regionalized. My siblings and I traveled to the Congo in the summer of 2006 and made a lot of connections with artists there; and thankfully the Congolese government is now more open to issuing artists visas to travel.

CB: We're getting to that point where we have to wrap up. Tell us what you love most about the African dance culture and what aspect of the culture worries you the most?

MKM: Ooh... that's hard. I think what I love most about Congolese culture is the relationship between dancer and drummer. I love how the drum communicates with the dancer and creates a spiritual connection somewhere in the cosmos.

I fear that out of selfishness or fear, some traditions are going to die with certain people. They want to hold onto the knowledge because they are afraid share it with others. They think someone will take the knowledge, profit off of it or rise above them. They don't understand that if they share the knowledge people will remember them for teaching and sharing it. They will live on.

CB: That is a serious issue which all of the African dance cultures are facing, no matter what region of the continent they come from. Thank you for taking the time to talk to us. We've enjoyed it and we hope to have a chance to catch you on the East Coast.

MWM: Sure anytime. I'd love to come.