Danse Maghreb formed in 2003. The company members have many years of performance experience, and share a love of North African dance. We are dedicated to presenting the music and dance from the region in culturally authentic and respectful performances. Danse Maghreb has been regularly invited to perform for the Bay Area Amazigh community since our formation, where we are usually the sole representatives of Kabyle dance. After our shows, we are frequently approached by Imazighen, who begin speaking to us in their native Tamazight language. We are currently the only company in the Western United States performing Kabyle dance.

Over the past six years, we have had the opportunity to study with Amel Tafsout an internationally acclaimed dancer, teacher, storyteller and singer. The dance of Kabylia, with its signature fast, full hip shimmies, hip circles, and nimble footwork all done while twirling a long scarf, was first introduced to company members by Amel. Inspired to learn more about the dance and culture of the Imazighen from Kabylia, we were fortunate to make the link with the musician Moh Alileche and members of the Algerian community here in the Bay Area. Our research connected us with a large Kabyle community in Montreal, Canada (especially Groupe Tafsut), who have been very helpful and supportive by providing videos and information. We have been fortunate to have seen live performances and have studied videos of dancers from Kabylia, including the Algerian National Ballet.