Educational Programs

forms of dance, as well as its community’s diversity. Aimed to help inner-city and at-risk youths, this group of impressive dancers puts on a remarkable show.

OPERACRÉOLE This group keeps their work close to the traditions of New Orleans opera, which has a deep and fascinating history. Focused on the contributions made by people of color, OperaCréole perform lost or forgotten music that stems back to the early people of New Orleans, Africa, Spain and Haiti.

RISING DRAGON LION DANCE TEAM Spectacular, traditional Vietnamese lion dancers based in Marrero, LA, directed by Mr. Martin Nguyen. Be amazed at these incredible athletes, and the gigantic, dancing lions!

SQUARE DANCE NOLA New Orlean’s Square Dance Collective host community square dances with an old-time string band and a live caller that teaches everyone how to sway their way through the box. Sometimes joined by Lost in the Holla, other times with The Bayou Clogger String Band, Square Dance NOLA delivers a heel stompin’ good time!

STEPHEN FOSTER’S FOSTER FAMILY PROGRAMS Dedicated musician and community supporter directs students from the community arts center in a presentation of music and dance. Always a stunning array of talent, Mr. Foster’s unfailing dedication to New Orleans children is apparent in the musicianship showcased here!

SYLVIA YANCY-DAVIS Sylvia Yancy-Davis has been a teacher, school administrator, and storyteller for more than four decades. As a child, she was captivated by the greatest storyteller she has ever known, her grandfather. She dedicates this performance in honor of him. She also dedicates today’s performance to the memory of her friend and mentor, Adella, Adella the Storyteller.

THE ROOTS OF MUSIC MARCHING CRUSADERS This youth-led music group was founded in 2018 by Rebirth Brass Band's Derrick Tabb, who sought to provide New Orleans children with no-cost, creatively stimulating after-school activities. The band has become a staple during Mardi Gras and at conventions and festivals throughout the year, bringing with them their passion and enthusiasm for the transformative power of music.

THE RRAAMS The River Road African American Museum Society from Donaldsonville, LA will bring a unique look into the history and culture of African Americans from rural Louisiana. The museum is dedicated to the collection, preservation and interpretation of arts, artifacts and historic buildings and presents an informative, high energy program featuring traditional drumming and dance.

VERSAILLES LION DANCE TEAM Established in 2007, the Versailles Lion Dance Team is made up of girls and boys who have spent time learning about and celebrating their Vietnamese culture. Performing the lion dance, which is said to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck, these young dancers put on a show usually only seen at Vietnamese New Year or special events and festivals.

YOUNG AUDIENCES OF LOUISIANA PERFORMING ARTS SHOWCASE Young Audiences of Louisiana (YALA) is a leading provider of arts education and integration programs in the state of Louisiana and our student performers represent what happens when dedication meets the richness of our local culture. Our professional artists work with students in afterschool and summer programs in eight schools throughout the city and through NORDC summer camps. Designed to connect to the regular school day, these programs combine academics, arts and culture, and life skills to help children reach their fullest potential. We also provide in-school arts integration services, educator professional development, and community workshops.

YOUNG GUARDIANS OF THE FLAME AND CONGO KIDS The Young Guardians of the Flame group was established in 1989 by the late Big Chief Donald Harrison, Sr. This eclectic youth group range in age from 1–16 and continues to share the traditions of Mardi Gras Indian culture with audiences throughout the United States. The Young Guardians embrace the collective inherent warrior heritage of its membership with ceremonial attire (spectacular original art dress of plumage, narrative beaded images and rhinestone designs), ritual processions, spirited coded dances, sacred chants and ancient percussion rhythms. The Young Guardians are dedicated to authentic preservation of indigenous cultural traditions from the African Diaspora that emanate from New Orleans, Louisiana, led by Big Queen Cherice Harrison-Nelson.

SATURDAY, APRIL 30 NATIVE AMERICAN SPIRIT! Martha Redbone Roots Project

Central Lafouche High School

MONDAY, MAY 2 GOSPEL IS ALIVE! Kathy Taylor

Electrifying Crown Seekers New Orleans Council on Aging Community Choir Franklin Avenue Baptist Church NEW ORLEANS COUNCIL ON AGING COMMUNITY CHOIR

PHOTO BY JAQUELINE MARQUE