Wednesday, February 18, 2009

African American History Month at the Library!



The Grand Rapids Public library has some fun events coming up to celebrate African American History month. Here's a list of events:

Capoeira Mandinga
-Come see a demonstration of the unique Afro-Brazilian martial art, Capoeira. You'll be amazed at the acrobatics and skill on display.
Saturday, February 21
11:00 am - West Leonard Branch
3:00 pm - Yankee Clipper

Taste of Soul Sunday
Sunday, February 22, 2009, 1:00 pm
Main Library


Join us as we celebrate African American history and culture at the fourth annual Taste of Soul Sunday. Sample African American art, music, literature, history and food samples provided by Sandmann's, Jamaican Dave's and Selam Store. All events are free and open to the public.

On Stage: Ryerson Auditorium

Storyteller La'Ron Williams
1:15 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3

Award winning storyteller La'Ron Williams shares the African tradition of storytelling. His highly participatory, music-spiced program presents a dynamic blend of original and traditional tales.


R&B singer Jamal Chilton
2:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3

R&B singer Fowziyah
2:45 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3

Rapper Naeink and the Pure Harmony Dance Team
3:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3

Two of Pure Harmony Entertainment's best acts combine for a never-before-seen performance.


Gospel singer Debra Perry
4:15 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3

Enjoy the gospel sounds of award-winning Grand Rapids resident Debra Perry.


History Presentations

A Brief History of the Black Church in America with Dr. Rik Stevenson, Jr.
1:30 pm and 3:00 pm
Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4

This discussion is designed as an introduction to the history of the Black Church and how it has served the African American community. Special attention will be given to the distinct cultural nuances that make the Black church experience unique.


Freedom, Slavery and the Roots of American Music with musician Ray Kamalay
1:30 pm and 3:00 pm
Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2

Join Detroit musician Ray Kamalay as he traces the development of early American music from its links to slavery up to the early Jazz Age. This lecture will discuss freedom, slavery, spirituals, blues, minstrel shows, ragtime, and jazz, with musical performances throughout the presentation.


The Beauty and Art of African Textiles with Dr. Steve Buckridge
2:15 pm and 3:45 pm
Computer Training Center, Lower Level

Join Grand Valley's Professor Buckridge as he explains the origin and myths surrounding some famous traditional West African textiles. He will explore the meanings of their rhythmic patterns, production techniques, and their influence on western fashion.


Black Cowboys of the West with artist Herschell Turner
2:15 pm and 3:45 pm
Quiet Study Room, Lower Level

Some historians estimate that over 25% of the cowboys working in the cattle industry in the 1800s were black. Herschell Turner created a series of paintings showing this underrepresented component of African American history. He will show a short film and discuss his art.


Taste of Soul Sunday for Teens

Hip Hop Dance Lessons
1:15 pm Storytime Room, Level 2

Learn some hip hop dances to show off to your friends.


Taste of Soul Sunday for Kids

Storyteller La'Ron Williams
3:15 pm Storytime Room, Level 2

Listen as La'Ron Williams gives a taste of the tradition of African storytelling.


Arts & Crafts: Make an African Mask
1:00 - 4:30 pm Storytime Room, Level 2

Design and decorate your very own African mask!

This would be an amazing event for the family!

No comments: