The students at New Visions Elementary School ended Black History Month with a celebration of African American dance and culture presented by the Phyllis Rose Dance Company.
The interactive performance brought students to their feet and lifted their voices as the talented dancers and musicians showcased the diverse cultures from around the world through the arts.
Students were introduced to the gumbe drum, call and response music from Ghana, learned about the Universoul Circus and the background of its founder Cedric Walker, and were taught the 1960s dance, the peppermint twist and more.
“I really liked the different types of songs we learned from Ghana and the gumbe drum,” said first grade student Dina Sayah.
Students were able to stand up, dance and sing along with the performers and were invited to show off their creativity.
“Being able to dance and learn dances from a long time ago was fun and interesting,” said second grade student Reuven Bassard.
The Phyllis Rose Dance Company provides arts in education experiences in dance, music and folklore to young audiences, via performances and workshops.