International Music And Dance Festival Returns To New Rochelle Library

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — This summer, the New Rochelle Public Library is ready to explore the diverse cultures of the world with you — no passports required.

The International Music and Dance Festival is returning to downtown New Rochelle for six weeks this summer, thanks to the New Rochelle Public Library (NRPL), the New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District (NRBID) and The Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library. A live performance will take place in the Ossie Davis Theater every Tuesday evening at 7 p.m., from July 12 - August 16. A wide range of music and dance performances representing cultures from across the world will be offered.

"We are thrilled to bring back the International Music and Dance Festival after a two year hiatus due to the pandemic," said Tom Geoffino, Director of the New Rochelle Public Library. "The Festival, started over 20 years ago, has been a highlight of summer programming in New Rochelle. I am so pleased we are able to continue this tradition, highlighting diverse cultures from around the globe."

The series will kick off of Tuesday, July 12 with Redhawk Native American Dance. There will be an explosion of color and sound in this performance by a group of Indigenous artists, performance artists and musicians. They will share their traditions while breaking stereotypes and fostering a better understanding of Native American history. Registration for the program can be done here.

On July 19, Bokandeye African Dance will perform. Kids and adults will be able to learn about the rich and colorful history of West Africa through dance, rhythm, song and theater. A collage of traditional rhythms and dances from the Senegambia Region of West Africa will be staged and choreographed to tell the stories and folklore of ancient African villages. Registration for this program can be done here.

Nai Ni Chinese Dance will take the stage on July 26 with an evening of multicultural, interactive dance with dazzling costumes and props. The dancers will take the audience on a journey to explore one of the most ancient cultures in the world. Narrated by the artists, the audience will learn about the history, geography and the basic practice of traditional dance. Some audience members will be invited on stage to learn how to dance with silk ribbons. Registration is requested here.

On August 2, the Irish Dance Company will present a blend of traditional and modern Irish dance featuring complex rhythms, intricate formations and impressive aerial movement. Paired with music from some of the greatest modern Irish bands, this youth performance troupe of all ages and levels will bring excitement and inspiration to the entire family. Registration can be done here.

Aszmara Arabian Dance returns on August 9 for Middle Eastern and Arabic dance performed in gorgeous costumes by world-renowned artist Aszmara. Accompanied by folkloric music by Armenian musicians Robert Boghosian on oud, Souren Baronian on clarinet, kaval & dooduk and Mal Stein on dumbek. Registration is requested here.

The series will culminate on August 16 with Calpulli Mexican Dance. Members of the acclaimed Calpulli Mexican Dance Company will be joined by students of the library’s Summer Mexican Dance workshop for this final performance. In colorful costumes, the dancers will celebrate the rich, regional dance traditions of Mexico’s diverse cultural history. Registration can be done here.

"We are so pleased to have once again the inspiring and educational International Music and Dance Festival right here in New Rochelle Downtown," said Karel Littman, Executive Director of New Rochelle Downtown BID. "Thanks to our partners at the NRPL, these wonderful cultural experiences are back here for all ages to experience and enjoy."

Registration for all events may also be done via email or by calling 914-813-3706.

The Ossie Davis Theater at the New Rochelle Public Library is located at 1 Library Lane in New Rochelle.

SEE ALSO:

• New Rochelle Library Unveils Full Summer Of Unique Programs
• 400+ Attend New Rochelle Public Library's Summer Reading Kickoff Party
• Bubble Bus, Pout-Pout Fish And Tattoos: Summer Reading Kickoff Party