Legacy Arts Ensemble
Ancestry is our Artistry
West African Storytelling, drum and dance ensemble discovering and embracing our cultural differences while celebrating our likeness.
Real history through an explosive modern lens.
When Legacy artists are not on stage, we are working to meet new artists across the diaspora who are hand crafting one-of-a-kind home goods, carvings, paintings, and more, specifically to uplift your heart and home. Shop the collection. Bring a lil' culture home.
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Our Roots
The Legacy Arts Ensemble was founded in 2015 by Traci Jai (Temne, Sierra Leone/ Bronx NY) and Khary Kamau (Kissena, Burkina Faso/ Queens NY). The two African Americans, after discovering their roots thru DNA ancestry testing, went on a personal journey of self discovery ,re-connection & rebirth. What resulted was relationship with their native land and families as well as a new expanded understanding of their inherent artistry.
Now all members of LAE undergo the same process and then, with the ensemble, thru the use of West African storytelling, poetry, music and dance, create original pieces around traditional works, for audiences of all ages.
Our works empower, educate and entertain audiences about the beauty and history of the African diaspora and its culture, simultaneously inviting all to embrace and celebrate their own.
Over the years, LAE has managed to expand beyond performance art and into the world of visual design. It is our goal continue learning, growing and sharing with our followers, by promoting and supporting the artistry of our sisters and brothers on the continent.