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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. Program options: In-person […]

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, […]

Japanese Festival Drums

The music of Taikoza personifies power, grace, pulse, and driving rhythm. After decades of training in Japan, Marco Lienhard leads this electrifying aural and visual performance which captures the vitality and culture of life in Japan. Highlighted by the thunderous rhythms of ancestral Japanese Taiko drums and the sounds of bamboo flutes, this festive experience draws from […]

Eda Ne Kakati (From the Past to the Present)

This jubilant assembly introduces students to the artistry of East African cultures through dance, music, and storytelling. Sharing music from his native Uganda and authentic East African instruments, Ssuuna inspires students to compare cultures and to learn the importance of respecting cultural differences. The program ends in celebration as students play alongside Ssuuna and learn […]

Land of the Leprechaun

Explore the myth and magic of everyday Irish life. This sprightly collection of stories, melodic ballads, pennywhistle tunes, and jigs performed on a variety of traditional instruments is guaranteed to set your feet a-dancin’—and your heart a-wishin’ on a rainbow! Program options: In-person Please fill out this inquiry form or call 866-500-9265 for more information. (Virtual programs are not […]

Rhythms Connect Us Around the World

Experience the music and rhythms of our world community. Students travel to an array of cultures through songs, instruments, legends, and history. Through active participation, this program encourages students to find their unique musical skills while enhancing their individual creativity. When scheduling this program, schools may choose regions of the world. Experiential learning is a […]

Yah-Oh-Way

Yah-Oh-Way means “It is good” in Hopi. This exciting and athletic performance by the Thunderbird American Indian Dancers highlights the depth and complexity of several Native American societies. Students witness the origins and meanings of songs, dances, and traditions of many tribes that inhabited North America before the arrival of Europeans. By participating in traditional ceremonies—including […]

Traditions of India

Originating in Hindu temples more than 2,000 years ago, traditional Indian dance combines fluid movement with complex melodies and rhythmic patterns. With Ramya Ramnarayan students experience the role dance has in the cultural and spiritual life of India. Adorned with beautiful costumes, jewelry, and makeup and using ritual hand gestures called mudras, the dancers present […]