Founded in 1969 by Ferne Yangyeitie Caulker, a native of Sierra Leone, West Africa, the Ko-Thi Dance Company is a unique ensemble committed to preserving and performing the dance and music rooted in African-American and Caribbean cultures. In 1990 Ko-Thi became an artistic affiliate of the UWM School of the Arts, and in 1995 was officially designated "artists in residence." This affiliation provides Ko-Thi with in-kind rehearsal and teaching studio space at UWM. Founder Ferne Caulker also holds a faculty appointment in the UWM Dance Department.

Comprised of artists trained in the history, mythology and techniques of art forms within the African diaspora, the Ko-Thi Dance Company uses a myriad of traditional instruments, authentic costumes, infectious music and extraordinary dance to educate and bridge the gap between cultures. Ko-Thi has achieved national and international acclaim through its regional and national tours, and now teaches technique, history, graduate seminars, and oversees study abroad programs in Senegal, Cuba, and Jamaica. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel describes Ko-Thi as “national artistic treasure.”

Performances:
Harvest Festival, Oct. 28-30, 2004
www.ko-thi.org