The Mbongi Family

Get to know the artists, teachers, musicians and friends
of the Mbongi Dance Theater Project

Titos Sompa Founder and Artistic Director of Mbongi Dance Theater Project Biza Sompa Founder of Bichini Bia Congo Dance Theater Antoine Moundanda Master Likembe Geant ("Kisansi") player Papa Kourand Master Likembe Geant ("Kisansi") player, composer Biahua Come Master Griot (storyteller) and Nsambi player

Lorice Mounkala Nkodia Gilbert
Painter, musician and composer from the Congo
Member of of the band Les Echos-Noirs

Isadore Minqui
Dancer and Percussionist

Ntadi Zeze
Choreographer and Professor of Dance

The Magic Shop
Recording Studio

Antoine Moundanda Master Likembe Geant ("Kisansi") player International recording artist and master kisansi player Moundanda has toured throughout China, Russia, Africa and Western Europe, spreading his traditional and contemporary music from the heart of the Congo. His rhumba, salsa, blues and traditional soukous styles have ignited audiences from Havanna to Brazaville and back to Congo Square. His musical group, Likembe Geant is avalable for tours in America or abroad by request. Moundanda is also available for solo performances. Contact Mbongi for more information.

Papa Kourand Master Likembe Geant ("Kisansi") player, composer A close friend and associate of Antoine Moundanda, Kourand has toured with the Likembe Geant band for more than twenty years. He is avalable for tours abroad both individaully and with his band. Contact Mbongi for more information.

Biahua ("Papa") Come Master Griot (storyteller) and Nsambi player The nsambi is one of the oldest Congolese instruments. It has been used for thousands of years in healing, stoytelling and religious ceremonies. Come represents the last generation of dwindling griot who still possess the knowledge of this traditinal instrument. He is available for performances individually or along with the other members of Likembe Geant. Contact Mbongi for more information.