MIAMI — The fourth annual African Diaspora Dance and Drum Festival of Florida (ADDDFF) presented by Delou Africa Inc. is set to be a high-spirited three-day family friendly event that will offer attendees an extensive series of captivating traditional African dance, drum, music and history workshops conducted by world-renowned performing artists.
The ADDDFF is open to the general public and runs from noon Aug. 2 through Aug. 4 at the Little Haiti Cultural Center, 212 N.E. 59th Ter., Miami. Information at 305-978-3866.
DEDICATION
The cultural arts and education event includes dance, song and music as well as health instruction workshops from countries such as Senegal, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Japan, Cuba, Haiti and the USA. Additional festival attractions include a free Afro-Zumba class, yoga, a new lecture series highlighting the countries of Guinea and Senegal, a symposium panel discussion on the health benefits of African dance and drum, a global bazaar and an enriched children’s village expo (which will conclude with a Back to School Giveaway).
The festival continues into Sunday, but Saturday, Aug. 3 will culminate with a masterful “Bridging Cultural Gaps” concert at 7:30 pm and will feature colorful performances from the Delou Africa Dance Ensemble, Fatala, Venus Rising, Children of Kuumba, Natambu, and our world renowned guest artists.
On that evening the 2013 Cultural Community Outreach Award will also be presented to Essie “Big Mama” Reed, a highly dedicated member of the cultural arts community, with a community reception to follow. For more information on Big Mama, visit bigmamahelp.com/aboutcharity.html
DREAM COME TRUE
Since its inception four years ago the festival has been a leader in bringing some of the most renowned national and international dancers and drummers to South Florida for cultural and educational experiences in traditional African dance and drumming. The movement is under the artistic prowess of Delou Africa Inc., the Delou African Dance Ensemble (D.AD.E.) and Executive Director Njeri Plato in partnership with Ibrahima, the company’s griot and musical consultant.
“It is a joy to see children and adults from all walks of life coming together to experience the rich traditions of African Culture through dance, drum, music and history,” said Njeri. “My dream has become a reality.”
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: 4th annual African Diaspora Dance & Drum Festival of Florida
WHEN: From noon, Aug. 2 through Aug. 4
WHERE: Little Haiti Cultural Center
COST: Open to the public
CONTACT: Call 305-978-3866
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