Date: Fri 16-Jan-1998

Publication: Bee

Author: MICHEL

Quick Words:

schools-Sounds-of-Afrika

Full Text:

The Healing Energy Of Dance And Drums

(with cuts)

Newtown Middle School sixth graders clapped and danced to the rhythmic

drumming of The Sounds of Afrika , once they had received permission from

their elders.

Brother Bryant Chance addressed the assembled group of students and teachers

before the dancing workshop could begin.

He said, "Would everyone over age 50 please stand."

Students giggled nervously and expectantly, having been raised in a culture

where adults do not easily divulge their age. Yet as Brother Bryant explained

to the children, it is very important to acknowledge and respect your elders.

After a moment's hesitation, John Ventresca stood up in front of the assembled

students and teachers. He was then formally and respectfully asked permission

for the group to perform libations and a dance.

Brother Bryant explained to the students that "In a world gone crazy, there is

not enough respect for our elders, our teachers, our administrators. They

paved the way for you! They are there to guide and teach you!"

Not only did Mr Ventresca grant permission to dance, but he went on to dance

with great vigor and energy himself.

Brother Bryant told the students that African dance and drumming is a two-way

way of healing, where you give your energy and get healing energy from the

rhythms of dance and movement.

Dancers Sister Fanchone Fraser and Sister Althea G. Chance led small groups of

dancers to the rhythmic sounds of drumming of Brother Kojo Ben Reuben Bay and

Brother Bryant Chance in this cultural arts program.

The Dance Workshop is one of several programs available for schools by the

Sounds of Afrika.