Archives

Stories of Africa

In Stories of Africa, students take a journey through the African Diaspora via story. From the villages of Africa to the urban streets of America, TAHIRA teaches students the origin and purpose of stories in the African experience. Each student has an opportunity to select a story; make their own adaptations; and perform the story. […]

Afro-Cuban Percussion

Students play a variety of percussion instruments from Latin American countries while learning about culture and history through stories and demonstrations. By learning historical context, students understand the meaning of the music beyond the basic rhythms and melodies. Students comprehend musical tools such as dynamics, pulse, call and response, breaks, and instruments through hands-on experiences. […]

Origins of Uganda’s Rhythms and Dances

Students learn traditional drum rhythms and dances from different regions of Uganda in this workshop with Ssuuna. Working together—some as drummers and others as dancers—they explore the history and meaning behind the East African steps and drum beats. Program options: In-person Please fill out this inquiry form or call 866-500-9265 for more information. (Virtual programs are not charged a […]

Join the Celtic Revival

Join the Celtic Revival that’s sweeping the country! Try your hand (and feet!) at Irish set dancing—a form of social dancing similar to square dancing. Danced to jigs, reels, polkas, and hornpipes, set dancing—traditionally performed during a céilí (Irish dance/social)— promotes physical coordination, learning to count measures of music, and recognizing repeating patterns. Learn a […]

Let’s Dance Our Story

Sharing stories from several Latin American countries infused with dance and music, Liliana Attar introduces students to cultures of Latin America while encouraging awareness, appreciation, and respect for different cultures. Students expand their cultural knowledge while learning to tell Latin American tales through movement.

Dances and Culture of Mexico

This delightful program with Mexico Beyond Mariachi showcases the vast cultural expressions of our neighbor to the south, Mexico. Students are immersed in the culture and history of Mexico through the disciplines of music and dance from various regions of this diverse country. Maps, hats, skirts, and other artifacts are used as teaching aids. A […]

A Journey Through Latin Percussion

Celebrate the traditions of Latin percussion with this display of Samba to Salsa’s syncopated sounds and powerful rhythms. On this trip through the origins, history, and classic rhythms of samba, salsa, and more, the audience engages in collaborative ensemble exercises to explore these community-based traditions. Students connect to the music and culture of the Caribbean […]

The Ways of the Lenape

Who were the Lenape Native Americans of New Jersey and Pennsylvania? Following years of conversation and relationships with Native people, Rob Aptaker gives students the opportunity to explore the tools, clothing, toys, games, medicine and music that have historically been a part of their daily lives, building a picture of pre-colonial life. Note: Rob no […]

East Meets West

Experience astounding puppets that come alive through stories of China and America with Hua Hua Zhang. With stunning visuals and graceful movements, this program presents the ancient art form of Chinese Puppet Theater. Fusing movement and music found in Chinese Opera with Western technology, this exploration brings the complex role of the puppeteer as storyteller, […]