Music & Dance!
Music and Dance Workshops for Every Level of Expertise
Whether your best drumming is on the kitchen counter waiting for the trash to be taken out or leading a drum circle at a yoga retreat in Costa Rica, there is no funner way to catch the rhythms of the Procession firsthand than by dancing and performing in a home-grown procession band! There are lots of opportunities, so don’t hesitate to drop by and join in with one of these ensembles below - or grab your high school trombone out of the closet and create your own band! Either way, your opportunities to celebrate the beauty of the natural world through movement and sound abound.
All workshops listed below are held at the Procession of the Species Community Art Studio
Olympia Armory Creative Campus, 515 Eastside St. SE, Olympia
Armory Gymnasium (Main Entrance on Eastside St)
Crow Drummers and Crow Dancers Workshop
4-6 pm Sundays April 6, April 13, and April 20
Led by Bret BenRaven
Crow Drummers started in 2004 under the direction of Bret BenRaven. It is a community drumming group that plays original compositions in the Hamana style of Guinea West Africa on traditional West African djembe and dunun drums, accompanied by bells and shakers. Some musical experience is good but not necessary. Beginning drummers and dancers are welcome. Instruments are provided. The music is FUN, especially with added dancers! Costumes can be made at the studio or bring your own. We wear black. Contact: David Curts 360-870-3989
Crow Dancers Workshop
6-8 pm Wednesdays April 2, April 9, April 16 and April 23
Led by Steve Passero
Come join us as we practice dance routines to the West African inspired percussion of the Crow Drummers. Let’s share our expression, in community, enhancing our relationship to the natural world and to each other, as we take it to the streets for the Procession of the Species, April 26th! ALL LEVELS WELCOME! We will work to make movement accessible for every body. Please attend as many rehearsals as possible and self-assess your ability to follow leadership in the dance. Contact: Steve Passero 360.250.2854 euphoriadance@hotmail.com
RAiN RhyTHM Ensemble
3-6 pm Saturdays April 5, April 12, and April 19
Led by April Park
Water the earth with this welcoming participation of freestyle drumming and movement by learning a distinct rhythm layer of "rainbeats!" Performing in the Procession's Water Element to celebrate the beauty and sounds of rain, all ages old enough to keep a simple beat or dance are invited. A few drums and several hand percussion instruments will be available but please bring whatever drums, Frog Guiros, tambourines, bells or household items you may have on hand. Procession studio made instruments such as rain sticks, shakers and bucket drums are all welcome too! A perfect entrance for the entire family, ages 12 and under must be accompanied with adult supervision. Contact: April Park aprilpark838@gmail.com
Charm of Hummingbirds – Belly Dancing
12-12:45 pm Sundays April 6 & 13
Led by Joy Johnston (Amira)
More info: www.amiranorthwest.com/hummingbirds
