From Sharon O. to Sharon R. - I hope you can share this with those who are planning programs for this summer's celebration of the arts!

Dear Summer Reading Program Planners,

Watchung Library is putting together several participatory arts programs for children and families, and I would like to recommend a drum, dance and song program that has appeal for all ages: Marafanyi. They performed here in the past for families (all ages welcome with an adult caregiver), and as part of our arts-themed staff development day a couple of years of ago. Young and old, coordinated or not, your audience will have fun with the rhythms, movement and songs of Marafanyi!

Following is a description of their very inclusive performing art:

West African Drum, Dance & Song with Marafanyi

Join the ladies of Marafanyi for an inspired cultural journey with live music accompaniment! We will explore indigenous instruments from West Africa and learn rhythms, dances and songs \x93hands-on\x94 supported by imaginative play. The group has a holistic approach to music, art & culture that is fun, encouraging and accessible with a focus on joyful exploration!

Marafanyi programming promotes wellness, empowerment, creativity, and highlights diversity, unity, tolerance and the community spirit. Lara Gonzalez and Yael Shacham, co-founders and artistic directors of Marafanyi Drum, Dance & Song have been teaching all ages and populations for over 10 years and have particular training focused on Early Learning: Lara is a trained Early Learning Through the Arts\xA9/Wolftrap\xA9 resident teaching artist for the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) since 1999. Yael is a certified Music Together teacher for 5 years.

The Marafanyi ladies travel frequently to Guinea, West Africa and are pleased to haverecently collaborated with Griot & Balafon Master, Famoro Dioubat\xE9 (Kakand\xE9, Fula Flute). They also supported Congolese guitarist Dominic Kanza and his African Rhythm Machine at MASS MoCA and Grammy award winner, Ang\xE9lique Kidjo from Benin at SOPAC (South Orange Performing Arts Center).

Marafanyi Drum, Dance & Song Visit www.Marafanyi.com Phone 877.904.2362 Email Root...@ureach.com

ENJOY, Sharon Orlando Youth Services Librarian Watchung Public Library 12 Stirling Road Watchung, New Jersey 07069 908-561-0117 sorl...@sclsnj.org

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