With support from the California Arts Council, Benkadi will provide an 18-week in-school African Drum, Dance, and Culture program to 80 students in 5th and 6th grade at Gil Garcetti Learning Academy in South Central Los Angeles. This program aims to foster creative expression, introduce African arts and culture, enhance cognitive development, and improve mental and physical well-being. It also seeks to cultivate cross-cultural understanding and empathy.
In one semester, students will learn African drumming and traditional rhythms, and engage with grade-appropriate social studies, geography, history, and arts and culture content through a structured curriculum. Benkadi’s teaching artists, who are award-winning performers, bring their expertise to the classroom to guide the students in their creative journey.
The program will culminate in a performance for the entire school, parents, and community in celebration of students’ achievements.