LUA SHAYENNE DANCE COMPANY (LSDC) was created as a vehicle to bring the beauty of African cultural expression in all its rich diversity to the world stage. LSDC blends dance, music and storytelling rooted in West African culture with contemporary art forms and social commentary.

LSDC produces original dance works, enriching educational programs, YENSA Festival – a biennal festival that celebrates Black Women in dance; in addition to offering professional and community workshops with local and international artists.

Led by the vision of Artistic Director, Lua Shayenne, LSDC’s artistic practice is also a spiritual practice in service to the wider community – “The process of creating something new can potentially increase our sense of spiritual connection to one another and transform the hearts of our audiences and participants.”

 Created in 2011, LSDC has presented six full length productions including Dora nominated KIRA, The Path | La Voie (Luminato – The Fleck Theatre – 2019), Djaa, the Drought (Arts in the Parks, Toronto – 2016), Hybrid and Woman’s Whisper (CCF Frontenac, Kingston, ON – 2016), cos.mo.pol.i.tan, (Harbourfront Centre, Toronto – 2014); Djaa (Festival International Danse Encore, Québec – 2013); and Departure 00:00, (Lower Ossington Theatre, Toronto – 2012).

LSDC is premiering its seventh full length production January 2024 at the Betty Oliphant Theatre.

LSDC has also been featured in major venues and festivals such as the 33rd Annual International Conference and Festival of Blacks in Dance/dance Immersion, Sharing the Stage (National Ballet of Canada and Harbourfront), dance: made in canada festival | fait au canada | d:mic, Fall for Dance North, Dusk Dances, Dancing On the Edge Festival (Vancouver), Common Ground Festival