spirit_of_uganda_web.jpgMake plans to see the high-octane, heart-warming and inspirational Spirit of Uganda on Saturday, March 1 at 8 p.m., on the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center Main Stage in Cutler Bay.

Spirit of Uganda presents music and dance through a cast of 22 performers, ages 10-20, who bring to life the sounds and movements of East Africa. With Artistic Director Peter Kasule and special guest Rachel Magoola (Afrigo Band) leading the way, the program celebrates the cultural roots and newer offshoots of this lush and diverse nation.

Ambassadors for Uganda’s 2.7 million orphans, the children of Spirit of Uganda personify the resilience and promise of Africa’s next generation. The company has performed around the U.S.A since 2007, sharing their stories, promoting East African culture and raising awareness of Empower African Children, a nonprofit organization based in Dallas, Texas and Kampala, Uganda.

The dance troupe exemplifies Empower African Children’s mission: to provide a transformative education, to create global connections and to prepare students for a lifetime of leadership.

Empower African Children provides scholarships to 50 young Ugandans. Each student attends a prominent boarding school in Kampala where they receive a high quality education. Scholarship recipients also receive post-secondary education at a university or vocational school to help them meet their career goals and prepare them for a lifetime of influence.

A college-level U.S. Scholarship program makes it possible for a few students to deepen their education at leading colleges and universities in the Unites States. Over the last year, four students have graduated from universities in the U.S.

Designed as a world-class family event, ticket prices for the show are affordable at $15-$10 through SMDCAC.org or by calling the SMDCAC box office at 786-573-5300 and only $5 for 13-22 year olds through Culture Shock Miami at cultureshockmiami.org. The center is located at 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay. Free parking is available.  

Visit EmpowerAfricanChildren.org for other information and opportunities to support the education of students in Uganda.

ON THE WEB: See the Spirit of Uganda 2 ½ minute trailer. vimeo.com/15808032