They Got the Beat

Those mesmerized by drumming and rhythms should check out Dance Africa, which kicks off Friday, January 27, at 7 p.m. at the Center of Creative Arts (524 Trinity Avenue, University City). Teacher and choreographer Diadié Bathily, Yélé (Bathily's charming group of elementary-school-age dancers) and Afriky Lolo (his adult dance company) take you on a colorful-costumed tour of West African dances and beats from the Ivory Coast, Guinea and Mali. Saturday and Sunday (January 28 and 29) feature shows starting at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.; tickets range from $14 to $17 (at 314-534-1111 or www.metrotix.com). For more information call COCA at 314-725-6555, or shake your way on over to www.cocastl.org.
Jan. 27-29