Born 1950

Born in the Pende region of Democratic Republic of Congo, Mufulu Kingambo Gilonda underwent rites of passage with his elders that instilled a profound sense of respect and responsibility for his culture. In 1975, he joined the National Ballet of Zaire, a newly formed group that attempted to reflect the diverse traditions of the nation and create new and unifying works. Gilonda’s eventual exile from the DRC—owing to a song he wrote that was critical of the Congolese political system—exemplifies the way that art that is engaged in daily life can be a dangerous practice for its creators.

That folk dance would be a vital part of civic life seems almost unthinkable in the West, where dance is, at best, a form of recreation and, at worst, the province of experts in the highest reaches of the arts and entertainment industries. But Gilonda’s dances are inseparable from an idea of community. He is always part of a collaboration between musicians (who are not mere accompanists in Congolese dance), singers and other dancers when he performs. The dances he performs range from celebratory social dances to dances that are part of instruction for rites of passage to dances that are forms of political rhetoric.

“There is so much ignorance about African countries and cultures here,” Gilonda has said. “Many people are very interested in Africa and we are happy to teach them about our traditions so they understand more about Congo and African ways of doing and thinking. Anyone of any age or background can enjoy our dances and rhythms.” Such openness about one’s traditions and willingness to entertain and educate audiences is emblematic of a great teacher.

Mufulu Gilonda is the artistic and executive director of Lisanga Ya Bana Kin, an organization dedicated to teaching and performing Congolese dance. The company was founded in 1996 under the name Eteko Bonyoma. They have performed extensively in Philadelphia and across the U.S. including in Philly Dance Africa, the Odunde festival, and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and at International House and Boston College. Gilonda has conducted residencies for the Indo-Chinese American Council at Olney High School, Imhotep Charter School, and the Multicultural Academy Charter School, all in Philadelphia. Before moving to the U.S. in 1990, Gilonda danced and taught with several companies including Magic Dances of Zaire, National Ballet of Zaire, and the Theatre Academy of Kinshasa.