1:00 pm - Drums of the World

The Story Is Not Over

One of the most fundamental aspects of our existence is our shared huemanity. It is a powerful force that unites us. This year’s 2nd annual DRUMS OF THE WORLD event celebrates this shared Huemanity, connectivity, and diversity through traditional Yoruba, African & Middle Eastern drumming and storytelling forms. Storytelling is a powerful tool for promoting meaningful connections, empathy, and understanding.

Join us on Sunday August 27 at Addison-Penzak JCC of Los Gatos from 1-4pm for an unforgettable journey through the richness of diverse cultures and the power of storytelling to bring people of different hues and perspectives together. By embracing our shared Huemanity and celebrating our differences, we can create a more inclusive and representative world.

Scheduled Workshop for youth & families: 1-3pm

Join our ‘Stories and Murals’ workshop, a unique blend of personal storytelling and shared creativity. In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to share cherished stories from your own background and experience those of others. You will translate the memorable moments and deep insights from these narratives into powerful visual representations. Each participant contributes to our collective mural, creating a canvas of intertwined histories and experiences. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore and honor our diverse community’s stories through the universal language of art!

RSVP Here | FREE

Mini-Exhibition 1-4pm:

Per usual, the mini-exhibition showcases drums that trace their roots to the DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo), Iran, Morocco and more. Come and learn about the different drums, their styles and appreciate the craftsmanship.

Main Stage 2-4pm:

Our main stage features live performances of traditional Yoruba, oral storytelling, drumming & dance, African drumming & dance and Middle Eastern storytelling & drumming from local drummers and percussionists from around the Bay Area. Main Stage also features an artist from New York who will share her talent and passion for music and drama. Hear the rhythms of their drums, chants, dance, spoken word, and the beautiful harmonies from songs that have been passed down from generation to generation. You want to be there.

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Artists & Speakers:

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2:00 pm – 2:10 pm

Welcome Message: Folake Phillips

Opening: Introductions, Announcement & Welcome Address by Founder & Executive Director of AWỌ Folake Phillips

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2:10 pm – 2:25 pm

Drummer: Mike Fair

2:25 pm – 2:30 pm

Speech: Opening Speech by Mayor of Los Gatos, Maria Ristow

2:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Drummer: Dror

Dror will share with us singing and playing a variety of songs from the Middle  East and North Africa, including Israel, Yemen, Egypt, Ladino, Tunisia, and Morocco. Playing a  variety of drums – frame drums, riq, and darbuka, and singing these haunting songs- we will be  transformed into faraway lands. Everyone will have a chance to join in with joyful songs, drums, and  dancing.

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3:00 pm – 3:50 pm

Dramatist & Storyteller: Taiwo Aloba & Storyteller/ Dancer/Singer: Nkan

Title: Yoruba Traditional Oral Storytelling

Oral Storytelling Folktales serve essential roles in traditional societies as a vehicle for education,  entertainment, and social development. These stories aim to teach the listener life skills, cultural  ideals, and the philosophies of the Yoruba culture. Step into a world where the lines between  reality and myth intertwine as we invite you on a mesmerizing journey through the enchanting  realm of Yoruba folklore. The performers will present folktales according to the Yoruba tribe in  South-West Nigeria and perform an interactive cultural dance.

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3:50-4:00pm

Thanks & Appreciation by Founder & Executive Director of AWỌ Folake Phillips & Maya Tripp Director, Jewish Life & Culture at Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center of Silicon Valley

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Side Attractions:

– Food

– Film-screening on traditional Yoruba drum making.

– Vendor/booths

– Fun games

RSVP Here | FREE