This family-friendly, community-oriented event will feature a drum circle and workshop instruction in djembe drumming and West African dance. The event is an opportunity to share in musical and dance activities led by the founder and director of a locally based arts & education academy — Watoto Academy of the Performing Arts. Watoto Academy is affiliated with and based at Meeting Street Academy in downtown Charleston. Watoto Academy has recently partnered with Bishop England High School on Daniel Island to advance the mission of community outreach through the program, which will ultimately strengthen community bonds and result in Watoto/Meeting Street students matriculating at Bishop England.
The workshop event and performance will be facilitated by adult professionals from Watoto Academy and Bishop England High School, and it will feature the program’s students as participants and performers. The public is invited to try their hand at drumming and join in learning some basic dance movements. We want everyone to come in the spirit of fun and cultural curiosity and exchange. The event will fittingly take place on June 19, Juneteenth, a newly adopted national holiday highlighting African American history.
Location: DI Waterfront Park, next to the bandshell/stage on the lawn next to the fountain.
The event is an opportunity to share in musical and dance activities led by Donald O’Conner, the founder and director of a locally based arts & education academy — Watoto Academy of the Performing Arts.
WatotoCharleston Ensemble https://youtu.be/