Founded in 1975 by the husband and wife team of Joseph and Gail Anderson, who acted with the Afro-American Folkloric Troupe and studied with the National Black Theater of New York, The Healing Force began full-time professional work in 1990. Their daughter, Sonji Gardner, and son, Karim, complete the group making their performance a family affair. Together this performing family presents programs which are designed to encourage positive behavior, provide creative opportunities, and enrich the school curriculum. They have traveled the country and appeared in venues such as The National Storytelling Festival, Bay Area Storytelling Festival, and numerous schools, colleges, churches, museums, festivals, family reunions, and community events. Whether appearing in resdencies in schools, festivals or workshops, The Healing Force turns any performance into a celebration of African culture and spirit, where audience participation is a standard. Training over the years has included; workshops conducted by Mohammed Da Costa of Guinea, Djimo Kouyate of Senegal, Mamady Keita of Guinea; dance and drumming classes at UNCG; a trip to Nigeria and Ghana; Summer Jembe Institute 1997 & 1998. The motto of The Healing Force's is "Serving the Community Through the Arts." They breathe life into those words through their high-energy performances and educational programs. Whatever the venue, The Healing Force affirms values, celebrates culture, sparks creativity and enlightens young and old. experience the excitement!