An African arts extravaganza arrived at Bennett School this past December. For two days, fifth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students traveled on a journey through Africa by dancing, drumming, storytelling, and print-making alongside Teli Shabu and his team of teaching artists, The Magic of African Rhythm. On the workshop days, each class rotated through spaces throughout… Read More →
Mike Wiley Brings Theatre and Writing to Siler City and Virginia Cross
Siler City Elementary (SCE) and Virginia Cross Elementary (VCE) students and teachers enjoyed actor and playwright Mike Wiley’s solo performance of “One Noble Journey” this past November. In addition to the performance, Mr. Wiley hosted teacher and student workshops at both schools during his week-long artist residency in Chatham. An Audience-Fueled Performance: “One Noble Journey”… Read More →
Music Production and Poetry at Bonlee School
“The assembly, as a whole, created a moment of unity and positivity for everyone, and students’ musical creations were the spark for that experience,” shared AIG Teacher, Mark Spring.
Flourishing with Flamenco at North Chatham and Pollard Middle
This October, the tenth year of the Artists-in-Schools program initiative in Chatham County Schools, began with a flourish of Flamenco, led by four multi-talented artists from the Durham-based Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana Dance Company! Interactive Performances :: North Chatham Elementary and Margaret B. Pollard Middle School Two schools–North Chatham Elementary and Margaret B. Pollard Middle… Read More →
Diali Cissokho Drums and Dances alongside Fifth-Graders at Virginia Cross Elementary
“Diali is truly remarkable with the kids!” said a Bonlee custodian who watched the workshops and performance. “He makes me want to have this kind of joy every day.”
Chatham Grove Elementary Students’ Sensational Safari with The Magic of African Rhythm
“This week, we are going on a safari…a journey together,” announced Teli Shabu, lead artist of The Magic of African Rhythm. Fifth-grade students traveled on their safari at Chatham Grove Elementary with Teli Shabu (pictured, above) and his team of artists last month, exploring the different parts of Africa (North, South, East, and West) through… Read More →
Diali Cissokho Dives Into Drumming with Siler City Elementary Fifth-Graders
“Diali is truly remarkable with the kids!” said a Bonlee custodian who watched the workshops and performance. “He makes me want to have this kind of joy every day.”
Black Box Residency Bursts with Creativity and Collaboration at J.S. Waters School
Two groups of students–the fifth and seventh grade at J.S. Waters School–ran into the multi-purpose room to greet the lead teaching artists of Black Box Dance Theatre: Natalie, Alfredo, and Kate. “We want to experience something new together! Go on this journey with us!” Natalie urged as the students gathered in a large circle. Giggles… Read More →
Poet Phillip Shabazz Supports Fifth Graders at North Chatham Elementary
“Repeat after me, “ poet Phillip Shabazz began. “Happy Monday! Good to see you! Welcome to our grumpy fifth-grade class!” “We’re gonna have some fun this week! Let’s go! Make some noise!” The fifth-graders at North Chatham repeated each phrase as instructed, clapped with wide smiles, and started their week-long Powers of Poetry artist residency. … Read More →
Black Box Dancers Delight Fourth Graders at Pittsboro Elementary
Just before winter break, Raleigh-based modern dance company Black Box Dance Theatre spent three days with fourth-grade students in high energy dance workshops and performances. Students buzzed with excitement about the experience–and about the upcoming break (which allowed for some creative and colorful outfits!). Class Workshops: Moving and Making with History in Mind The company’s… Read More →