Attention all Trentonians! If you’re looking to feel the beat this summer, you won’t want to miss the FREE and fun West African Dance and Drum classes coming to the Capital City.
Throughout the month of June, residents of Trenton are invited to the Trenton Public Library for hands-on lessons in West African dance, drumming, and Sekere. In order to participate, guests must be at least 4 years or older and be a Trenton resident, with special priority given to those residing in the Old Trenton neighborhood. Sessions will be held from 3:00-3:45pm and 4:00-4:45pm on the following days:
- Monday, June 12th: West African drumming
- Tuesday, June 13th: West African Sekere
- Wednesday, June 14th: West African dance
- Thursday, June 15th: West African dance
- Friday, June 16th: West African drumming
Drums will be provided, so all you need to bring is yourself and a willingness to learn! This series of events is a wonderful way to learn a new skill, engage with a beautiful culture, and connect with other learners in the community. No matter your age or experience level, all are welcome to feel the rhythm and take part in this fantastic event. This event is made possible due to the support of I Am Trenton Community Foundation along with Isles for the Old Trenton Neighborhood through New Jersey’s Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit Program.
West African drum and dance are as much an expression of the arts as they are an expression of spirituality. Tucked away in each beat and movement is a rich history of cultural meaning, connection to the divine, and regional pride. Different dances can hold tremendous meaning and will be utilized for ceremonial purposes, including weddings, funerals, and other commemorative moments. West African dance is also the influence behind many popular forms of dance that are still prominent in culture today. Drums and dance coalesce for a beautiful tapestry of artistry and expression, and now is your chance to experience this profound meeting of body and soul.
Courses will be taught by Egun Omode, a West African children’s performing arts collective. Egun Omode has been dazzling audiences since 2012 from their home base in Atlanta to the stages of New York City. As an organization committed to the preservation and celebration of West African dance and culture, their performances and educational endeavors provide profound cultural enrichment to schools, non-profits, community groups, and more all throughout the country. If you’d like to learn more about this incredible collective, please feel free to visit their website here: Home – EGUN OMODE.
If you have any questions prior to getting started, please feel free to contact the organizers at egunomode@gmail.com or (609) 792-9038 for additional details. Theses courses are a fun and free way to learn something new and connect with the community, so don’t miss your chance to be a part of something great!
