New Orleans
Founded in 2016 | Located in Congo Square | 20+ Youth Served Weekly
At LEAF, we recognize and celebrate New Orleans culture as one of the most vibrant living cultures in the world — not just in the USA, but globally. For the past 21 years, Shaka Zulu has performed at LEAF Festivals and taught native traditions through LEAF Schools & Streets residencies. His work has since carried him to Tanzania and Haiti, where he helped launch four LEAF International programs across the globe.
Now, that journey comes full circle. We're honored to recognize this global cultural treasure in our own backyard and to support Shaka Zulu as he leads his community in preserving and carrying forward its cultural traditions.
Meet The Culture Keeper
Chief Shaka Zulu is a Black Masking Indian (aka Mardi Gras Indian) who lectures on the rich history and folklore of this Louisiana tradition. He operates the Golden Feather Gallery, which displays this celebrated artistic aesthetic. Additionally, Shaka is co-producer of the touring production, Voices of Congo Square, a vibrant historical narrative of New Orleans magical music, electrifying dance, and mysterious Masking Indian culture. Shaka has been a part of LEAF for more than 20 years, spellbinding audiences as a stilt dancer with his colorful and elaborate costumes, tremendous heights, extraordinary acrobatics, and magnificent dance moves. He is also a master of instruments of the African Diaspora, i.e., the dundun, djembe, congas, balafon, etc.
Shaka
“New Orleans is another country and it is critical at this point in history for this rich tradition to be passed forward from the culture keepers to the youth.”