LEAF Cultural Arts Catalog Spring '20

2020

cultural arts catalog

Spring / Summer

A nonprofit organization building community, connecting cultures and enriching lives through the arts – locally & globally – with festivals, community events and arts education programs.

CULTURAL ARTS EDUCATION

LEAF SIGNATURE EVENTS LEAF FESTIVAL is our award-

LEAF SCHOOLS & STREETS

winning founding event. Since 1995, an intergenerational global community gathers at Lake Eden for a dynamic experience of music, art a culture from our backyard and around the globe.

utilizes the arts to bridge cultures and create life-affirming, community building experiences — empowering LOCAL youth to become global citizens, young artistic leaders & agents of positive change.

LEAF INTERNATIONAL

is dedicated to cultural preservation, fostering global citizenship and cultural exchange.

LEAF collaborates with communities & partners to support Culture Keepers who teach local youth their traditional arts.

LEAF DOWNTOWN AVL

celebrates creativity, diversity & families in the heart of Asheville, NC. This signature and inclusive community event encourages interpersonal exchange, cultural awareness, artistic excellence and welcoming spaces for all walks of life.

#1 Nonprofit Serving the Arts #1 Cultural Arts Event #1 Music Festival 2

#1 Music-Related Nonprofit #1 Festival for Camping #1 Festival for Kids

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“LEAF MemberSHIP is important to me because I have experienced the transformational power of cultural exchange, and I have witnessed the life-changing impact that LEAF has brought to Asheville youth and to our global community.” ~ Tommy George, LEAF Member & Board Emeritus

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LEAF MEMBERSHIP Join a global community of donors who believe in the life-changing power of cultural arts education, both locally & globally!

100% of MemberSHIP support LEAF Schools & Streets and LEAF International To get involved, visit theLEAF.org/membership

Your Membership Makes a Difference

LEAF Membership is a charitable contribution that ensures youth, in Buncombe County & in 9 countries across the globe, have access to cultural arts education at little to no cost.

Since 2004, LEAF Schools & Streets has served more than 78,000 youth through residencies, workshops, and performance opportunities. With the generous support of Members like you, LEAF is able to provide free and low-cost cultural arts education to more than 250 local youth each week.

education@theLEAF.org

Since 2006, LEAF International has empowered more than 3250+ youth across the globe. LEAF International currently serves more than 1200+ youth each week in 10 countries: Costa Rica, Rwanda, Bequia, Panama, Guatemala, Mexico, Tanzania, Ivory Coast, Haiti, and Mardi Gras Indians of NOLA.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS About LEAF ..................................................................................... 2

LEAF International

Join Our Global Community .................................................. 3

Saint Vincent & the Grenadines ........................................ 21

LEAF Schools & Streets

Costa Rica ...................................................................................... 22

Teaching Artist-Led Programs

Guatemala ..................................................................................... 23

Resident Teaching Artist Program ........................................ 5

Ivory Coast .................................................................................... 23

Visiting Teaching Artist Program ........................................... 9

Rwanda .......................................................................................... 24

Artist in Residence Program ................................................... 12

Tanzania ......................................................................................... 24

Community-Driven Programs

Mexico ............................................................................................ 25

Easel Rider Mobile Art Lab ....................................................... 16

New Orleans ................................................................................. 25

Unfolding LEAF (U-LEAF) ......................................................... 16

Haiti ................................................................................................. 26

Community Events ..................................................................... 17

Panama ....................................................................................... 26

Living & Learning Series

LEAF Signature Events

Learning Journeys ...................................................................... 18

LEAF Festival ................................................................................... 27

Kennedy Center Partners In Education ............................... 18

LEAF Downtown AVL .................................................................. 27

Cultural Exchange ...................................................................... 19

LEAF Global Arts Center

Cultural Expeditions .................................................................. 19

Introducing: The LEAF Global Arts Center ..................... 28 LEAF Global Classes & Workshops ................................. 29 Field Trips at LEAF Global .............................................. 29

How To Use This Catalog LEAF Schools & Streets welcomes and celebrates community partnership, the spirit of collaboration, and joint efforts to support the healthy development of kids & young adults. Together, we can explore how engagement can happen, keeping in mind that customization is always an option as long as there is a mission match. Costs associated with residencies, workshops, performances, cultural exchanges and other experiences cover expenses related to Teaching Artist compensation, supplies, transportation/fuel, training and production-support where needed.

This catalog was specifically created for schools, community centers, groups and other organizations that want to bring cultural arts education to the lives of youth locally, and globally. As you flip through this document, please note that LEAF’s cultural arts education offerings follow the academic year calendar for ease of partnerships with schools and education based programs, and are divided into the following semesters: SPRING | January 1 – May 31 Student Showcase – May 14-17 FALL | August 16 – December 31 Student Showcase – October 22-25 4

education@theLEAF.org

RESIDENT TEACHING ARTIST PROGRAM These residencies occur once a week within established after-school programs.

Program Overview: LEAF has the opportunity to impact youth beyond the festival experience. LEAF growing roster of 10+ Resident Teaching Artists lead a variety of programs that allow youth to explore an array of cultural arts, including: HIP HOP – Breakdance & Choreography, Intro to DJing AFRICAN DIASPORA – Drum, Dance & Costuming MUSIC APPRECIATION – Brass Band, World Percussion, Songwriting DRAMA – Theatre MEDIA – Stop Motion Animation, Live Action Moviemaking, LEAF ONEMic EMErgence LEAF Schools & Streets programs, goals, curriculum, and evaluations are aligned with the Developmental Assets Profile, developed by the Search Institute. Building these assets prepares youth for success in some type of college or education, a career, and citizenship. LEAF has identified 6 assets that exemplify the types of skills our programs help develop in students. These are: Community Values Youth, Adult Role Models, Creative Activities, Cultural Competence, Personal Power, & Self-Esteem.

Semester Offered: FALL, SPRING & SUMMER Showcase Details (@ LEAF Festival): SPRING ‘20 – May 14-17 // FALL ‘20 – October 22-25

*Thanks in large part to grants, donations, sponsors, and LEAF MemberSHIP, these Resident Teaching Artist programs have been subsidized, allowing youth & their families to participate FREE & experience the award-winning LEAF Festival as a performing artist.

LEAF MemberSHIP is a global community of donors who believe in the life-changing power of cultural arts education.

Join LEAF MemberSHIP today, and help support LEAF Schools & Streets year-round programming.

Visit theLEAF.org/Membership to sign up!

education@theLEAF.org

LEAF MemberSHIP celebrate • connect • create 5

Hip Hop Culture BREAKDANCE & CHOREOGRAPHY LEAF’s most cross-generational class is dance! Youth from ages 5 to 17 learn to embrace movement to today’s positive and empowering dance; hits as well as the throwbacks.

Through group choreography and self-designed solos youth develop supportive team bonds and a fun means to express high-energy, and focused body coordination.

Participants develop leadership opportunities by creating and teaching choreography to their peers. Master Teaching Artists collectively bring 50+ years of dance experience, hands-on youth leadership experience, and education/training various dance genres to their students, keeping the lessons fresh AND safe.

Teaching Artists: Otto Vazquez, Melvin A.C. Howell Program Partners: IRL (In Real Life), Burton Street Community Center, YMCA of Western North Carolina, YMCA – 21st Century Horizons Program, Christine Avery Center, & Studio Zahiya INTRO TO DJING The art of mixing, scratching, and spinning have taken the globe by storm. What started in urban cities across the Northeast United States, quickly became an artform, which has continued to explode and evolve as technology advances. In hip hop music, DJs may create beats, using percussion breaks, basslines and other musical content sampled from preexisting records. All are welcome to learn the equipment used to produce music, the ins and outs of the music industry, and the technical art of mixing and scratching with their Teaching Artist. This program has proudly been led by independent artists, hip hop professors, and entrepreneurs who bring business acumen, artistry, and tech detail to students.

Teaching Artist: Nex Millen Program Partner: Burton Street Community Center

African Diaspora AFRICAN DRUM, DANCE & COSTUMING When LEAF Schools & Streets was founded in 2004, the primary impetus was to bring music and art into historically African-American neighborhoods in Asheville & Buncombe County, a need that was largely unmet. Today, LEAF Schools & Streets works in the community with that original guiding missive, and over the years has embraced the value and importance of engaging all youth in the heritage, culture and traditions of Africa.

These programs dive into the sounds, rhythms and customs of culture, passing along authentic oral and visual traditions. LEAF has been grateful and fortunate to hold this space over the years with several Master Teaching Artists hailing from Ivory Coast, Malawi, Rwanda, New Orleans and more, who have generously and enthusiastically shared their cultural heritage with local youth.

Teaching Artist: Adama Dembele Program Partners: YMCA of Western North Carolina, Parks & Recreation

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education@theLEAF.org

Music Appreciation WORLD PERCUSSION The connective rhythm of the world’s cultures has always been carried through by the art of percussion. As universal as love, percussion is represented and embraced in every musical tradition through history, making this program an accessible and versatile entry into cultural arts education for children of all ages and backgrounds. Using percussion instruments from around the world including djembes, congas, drum sets, shakers, claves, hand drums, snare and bass, bongos, dunduns and more, groups learn to honor and hone the different percussion rhythms from all over the world, including Africa, Latin America, Middle East and American marching styles. Through the practice, youth develop coordination, rhythm and composition skills as well as nurturing a connection with their own heritage and individual self-expression.

Teaching Artist: Agustin Frederic Program Partner: Christine W. Avery Center BRASS BAND In LEAF’s brass band program, youth gain familiarity playing brass instruments, including the saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and more styles reminiscent of the spirit of New Orleans. Learn the principles of music composition and musical cohesion through an exploration in brass ensembles ranging from the classical to the modern. The program creates a stable foundation for youth to create supportive peer groups while developing self-affirming life skills such as self-confidence, self-worth, perseverance, commitment and the art of improvisation. Like percussion, brass instruments offer youth a vessel for enacting their imaginations.

Teaching Artist: Samuel Irvin IV, Kylie Irvin Program Partner: Christine W. Avery Center SONGWRITING Music is a universal language that has the power to transcend cultural differences.

Students will not only learn about melodies, rhythm, song structure, and lyrical content, they will also explore the power of music to affect positive change and unlock their voice and their ability to make a difference in the world. Each session will begin an in-depth look into a specific song and its impact on the world. Students will learn about the song and its structure, explore the melody, rhythm, lyrics, chord structure, and get guided songwriting time.

Teaching Artist: Kayla McKinney, Melissa McKinney Program Partner: YMCA – 21st Century Horizons Program

Drama THEATRE LEAF theatre classes explore a wide-range of written, verbal and non-verbal self expression tools as well as technical aspects of theatrical production. Youth engage in exercises to hone their interpersonal communication skills and develop self-confidence through script writing, group skit acting, monologue rehearsal, public speaking, and improvisation. Teaching Artists bring business experience to the class for a behind-thescenes perspective of what putting on a professional production is all about: set design, props, lighting & stage presence.

Teaching Artists: Skylar Goff, Ashleigh Goff, Marci Bernstein Program Partners: YMCA of Western North Carolina, YMCA – 21st Century Horizons Program, IRL (In Real Life), Francine Delaney NSFC

education@theLEAF.org

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Media STOP MOTION ANIMATION Bring your imagination to life with stop motion animation at the intersection of art and technology! Youth create artwork with cut paper, whiteboards and clay to be used in a movie of their own design. Using digital cameras and animation stands to shoot a series of photos, they will then edit their movies on laptops, adding music, voice overs and sound effects. Class adapts easily to explore a specific culture, concept, or subject area.

Animations from a variety of cultures will be shown as demos. We will celebrate on the last class with a screening for family and friends. Students will receive a digital copy of their movie. All materials and equipment are provided.

Teaching Artist: Lisa Smith Program Partners: TBD LIVE ACTION MOVIEMAKING Do you love to dress up in costume and act? Ever dreamed of being a movie director?

Students work collaboratively to plan, shoot, and produce their own movie while learning to work with camera equipment and editing software. This class adapts easily to explore a specific culture, concept, or subject area, as students collaborate to create a narrative, documentary, or experimental movie. Movies from a variety of cultures will be shown as demos. We will celebrate on the last class with a screening for family and friends.

Students will receive a digital copy of their movie. All materials and equipment provided.

Teaching Artist: Lisa Smith Program Partners: YMCA of Western North Carolina

LEAF ONEMIC EMERGENCE Founded in 2013, EMErgence is LEAF’s Electronic Music Experience. It connects youth with the wide world of music production. This program offers the opportunity to explore the latest in music technology, equipment, and techniques while honoring the history and progression of music production. Youth first learn how to completely setup and identify the different features of production equipment and then take creative liberty to explore with beats from around the world and their original compositions mixing their own songs.

Access to a variety of instruments in real-time further compliments the experience allowing youth to record their original Teaching Artist: Nex Millen Program Partner: IRL (In Real Life)

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LEAF FESTIVAL VISITING TEACHING ARTIST PROGRAM Week of May 11-15, 2020, with a final showcase at Spring LEAF May 15-17, 2020.

Program Overview: Twice a year, LEAF invites performing artists from around the globe that are culturally-rooted enough to grace the Festival stage and mission-oriented enough to lead a Visiting Teaching Artist Residency with elementary, middle and/or high school students in and around Buncombe County. It is an opportunity for youth to dive-in deep with a particular set of cultural traditions and immerse in the multicultural, multigenerational celebration that LEAF Festival offers taking the next step toward becoming global citizens and leaders – onstage and off-stage.

LEAF Festival Visiting Teaching Artist Residencies consist of the following:

• Visiting Teaching Artists are carefully selected by a committee comprised of the Performing Arts Director, Executive

Director and Cultural Arts Team at LEAF. These individuals are national and internationally touring acts with a deep desire to engage and empower youth in music and arts.

• A 3-5 day residency, 1 1/2 to 3 hours a day, hosted in a local school and/or community center for school age children.

• Each youth performer gets rockstar treatment for their showcase at LEAF Festival with the Visiting Teaching Artist

including, a LEAF performer badge with access to the Performer Lounge, two free guest passes for the day of their performance, a swag bag and LEAF t-shirt to rock onstage.

• The opportunity for youth to truly become global citizens and artistic leaders by working with role models of different cultures to express themselves and dream of future possibilities!

How to Book: Email education@theleaf.org or call 828.68.MUSIC [686-8742] for booking information.

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Cacao and Song Artist: Natalia Clavier of Thievery Corporation | Length: 3 days Grade Level: 5-9 | Cost: $600 Program Overview: Students will embark on an adventure enjoying chocolate in its purest form and we will compose a song utilizing the collective creativity of the group.

Florencia Fridman begins the workshop with a name sharing game. A cup of Cacao (chocolate in its purest form) is passed around while letting the kids know why cacao is important to the original civilizations of Central America. Caring for our planet is important, and we will share an interactive story and a few traditional songs from South America. Accompanied by a drum and free movement, Natalia Clavier will guide the creative process. Together, we gather with Cacao in a way to connect with the essence of the heart; tapping into the elements of nature, story telling, and singing together, letting the children guide the way.

From the Imaginative Storm to the Creative Form Artist: James Navé | Length: 4 days Grade Level: 6-12 | Cost: $700 Program Overview: In this interactive LEAF Schools and Streets writing and performance workshop, your students will explore how to let their imaginations inform, influence and hone their writing. Students will begin with a series of imaginative exercises that will generate new written work, revise their rough drafts into poetry and prose, and develop their oral presentation skills. Finally, they will learn rehearsal techniques, which will allow them to perform their work comfortably on a public stage. All the students in this workshop can sign up to present their work at The 50th LEAF Festival, May 15-17, 2020.

Write About What You Read About Artist: The Accidentals | Length: 3 days Grade Level: 3-8 | Cost: $700 Program Overview: Many of their songs were inspired by a single line from a book or an entire story they read while touring the countryside. In Sav and Katie’s writing workshops, they encourage students to bring inspirational pieces to the collective table where they write a song together. It is an interactive process where they create melodies, chord progressions, and share ideas. It is an intimate process with a large group and at the end of the day, that is what music is; it is the connection you make. NPR named Sav and Katie of The Accidentals “some of the most emotionally compelling songwriters of our time”… Sav and Katie will tell you it is because they read all the time, and will inspire your students to do the same.

The Music is the Song of Hope Artists: Kinobe & The Dance of Hope | Length: 5 days Grade Level: K-8 | Cost: $1000 Program Overview: The young members of Dance of Hope have been through challenging backgrounds, but through music and dance, they have been able turn these stories into hope, tour the world and during the residency they share their stories of resilience and the power music and dance played in their lives. Activities will include instrumental music, dance, and song. The goal of the residency is to introduce global culture, art, music and languages to a classroom setting.

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Folk: Music of the People Artist: The Campfire Reverends | Length: 3 days Grade Level: K-5 | Cost: $550 Program Overview: Born, unsurprisingly, around a campfire, the Campfire Reverends have been sharing songs & stories in Western Carolina & beyond, for almost a decade.

Presented with acoustic instruments & multi-part vocals, their material range includes originals, mid & late twentieth century folk, rock, and blues. LEAF Schools and Streets’ students will learn about the roots of Western folk music and about how songs have evolved over time. Classes will experiment with telling their favorite stories through song, discuss where and how these cultural treasures are shared, and share a few of their own.

The campfire is a-blazin’ – come sing along!

The Universal Language Artist: The Huntertones | Length: 3 days Grade Level: 6-12 | Cost: $750 Program Overview: The Huntertones bring people together around the globe with fun, imaginative, and fearless music. Every show . Their high energy, horn-driven sound features genre-bending composition and unconventional covers, becoming social experience celebrating the joy of music. They’ve performed in over 20 countries world wide and continue to tour the US and abroad. This residency will focus on musical expression through improvisation and composition.

The Power of Rwandan Drum & Dance Artist: LEAF International Rwanda JR Troupe | Length: 5 days Grade Level: 6-12 | Cost: $1000 Program Overview: This dynamic cultural exchange is led by students from the LEAF International Rwanda JR Troupe. Classroom youth will be introduced to the rich music and dance traditions of East Africa. In this residency, students will learn the importance of Rwandan dance & drum, a tradition deeply embedded in the cultural interplay between African continuity, rhythm, and acts of positive resistance that challenged oppression. By focusing on more than one cultural tradition, youth will learn about the great diversity throughout the continent Africa. Through this exchange, students will be invited to cultivate cross-cultural understanding and a sense of global citizenship.

The Traditions of Mardi Gras Indians Artist: LEAF International New Orleans | Length: 5 days Grade Level: K-12 | Cost: $800 Program Overview: As a master of the African form of stilt dancing and ancient mystical masquerades, Chief Shaka Zulu brings a variety of teaching styles and methods to the classroom. Shaka mesmerizes audiences with West African Stilt Dancing, colorful/elaborate costumes, and New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian culture.

This residency entertains & educates on African customs, history, musical instruments, masquerades, and legends, dispelling commonly held myths. Shaka will use traditional Mardi Gras rhythms, chants, and dances in this fun-filled, festive residency.

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ARTIST IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM These are five-day residencies, bookable anytime within the semester. They can also be booked as 45-90 minute one-time workshops or performances.

Program Overview: Since it’s conception in 2004, LEAF Schools & Streets has operated to provide exceptional and authentic cultural arts education in Western North Carolina through the dedication of local and international Teaching Artists. Over the years, the roster of Teaching Artists has grown and diversified in an effort to continuously support the changing needs of cultural arts programming in the most high-need communities. LEAF is proud to continue supporting these artists and our communities quest for satisfying cultural curiosity by making their programs available year-round for residency, workshop, and performance opportunities to anybody and everybody! These artists have been carefully selected for their high level of expertise, passion for teaching and authentic connection to the cultural artform they represent to ignite creativity and inspire self-expression in people of all ages.

Residency: Residencies are intensive, 5-day (1.5-3 hours a day) immersions in the artist’s signature artform and style that may culminate in a final performance/showcase of skills and knowledge gained. These are opportunities to begin exploring a new cultural art or seek a higher and deeper level of engagement with an already familiar artform. A residency offers an intimate experience with a highly acclaimed Teaching Artist that connects the individual to the artform on a more profound and personal level. Residencies are typically available for individuals or groups of up to 30, but exceptions may apply based on the artist and artform. Fee: $685 Workshop: A 45-90 minute hands-on practicum in the artist’s signature artform and style including an introduction of brief history/context of the art and their connection to it. These are opportunities to begin exploring a new cultural art or seek a higher and deeper level of engagement with an already familiar artform. Workshops are typically available for individuals or groups of up to 30, but exceptions may apply based on the artist and artform. Fee: $105 Performance: A 45-90 minute presentation of the artist’s signature artform and style including an introduction of brief history/context of the art and their connection to it. Fee: $105

These residencies can be tailored to connect directly to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study.

How to Book:

Email education@theleaf.org or call 828.68.MUSIC [686-8742] for booking information.

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EMErgence – Electronic Music Experience

Artist: Nex Millen | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: For Nex Millen, a native of Philadelphia, music is at the forefront of everything. Nex embodies this philosophy as an accomplished music producer, visual & performing artist, DJ, student and teacher of Hip Hop culture. As a LEAF Master Teaching Artist, Nex’s programs give youth a voice by exposing them to the latest in electronic music technology within the context of its cultural significance.

Participants explore self expression through singing,songwriting, and audio-visual media production. Through his 20 years of experience in the music entertainment industry, not only as an artist, but also in the fields of music retail, music marketing, and artist development, Nex emphasizes the importance of learning the ins and outs of the industry. In honoring the past, present, and future of Hip Hop, participants learn to take responsibility for their own creativity & successful paths forward.

Puppeteering with a Purpose

Artist: Edwin Salas Acosta | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Edwin is a Mexican Puppeteer, raised in Costa Rica, whose international acclaim in the artform has led him all over the world, allowing him to reach larger audiences and bridge seemingly greater divides. He is recognized as a performance artist in dance and theatre as well as a mixed-media visual artist, specializing in sculpting of puppets using anything from wood, plastic, paper, cardboard, and more. His themes range from social activism to cultural storytelling, folklore, mental illness, andbeyond. Edwin is also passionate about working intimately with people of all ages to illuminate their self-expression through puppetry. In his programs, Edwin teaches different puppetry techniques, material manipulation and the process of story craft to assist youth in sharing their authentic selves, highlighting the significance of each child’s presence and unique perspective in this wide world.

The Wonderful World of Hip Hop Dance

Artist: Otto “Aquaboogy” Vazquez | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Internationally acclaimed Broadway dancer, instructor, choreographer, and street dancer, Otto honed his craft in Miami & New York. He invites you to the wonderful world of Hip Hop dance in this five-day workshop! Jump into the culture and art of Hip Hop dance through the ages by learning iconic moves and grooves from classics like King Tutt (Tutting) and Waving, to authentic street styles like Popping and the Robot, to the popular styles of today. Otto’s Hip Hop immersions embody his motto: “Everyone learns, everyone smiles, everyone has a good time!”

Otto also offers an interactive workshop which begins with a motivational speech of how his art form lured him away from the life of a runaway to become the renowned artist he is today. Both residency and workshop are culturally informative, inspiring, and participatory for all ages.

The Positivity Movement

Artist: Melvin A.C. Howell | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Melvin is an internationally cultured choreographer who has been transforming and molding lives, while evolving the art of dance since the age of nine.

His approach is to “spread positivity, encouragement and guidance through dance.”

With a background in fitness, art, and many different cultural styles of dance, Melvin brings a unique vision to the art. His visionary style and technique promotes growth physically, mentally, and emotionally. His style encourages a strengthened body, mind, foundation, and creative capacity. As a movement expert and master instructor in Hip Hop, Street Dance, and Animation, students can expect to learn, smile, laugh and grow as they are taken on a scientific and mathematical journey of body control. Students will learn to move unrealistically, like a robot or a cartoon, in a safe and healthy way through the understanding of their bodies, muscles, joints, and different angles.

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Percussion: Alpha-Beat Soup

Artist: Sondra Hall & Alan Hall | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Sondra and Alan Hall developed Alpha-Beat Soup out of years of experience teaching kids in their respective disciplines. Their goal is to merge the joy of writing with the thrill of rhythm, and help kids learn how they intersect and enhance one another. Alpha-Beat Soup celebrates and explores the interconnection between rhythm and language, and provides students with hands-on opportunities to explore the two. Because this interconnection exists throughout the world, their curriculum integrates a range of cultural traditions: How do the call-and-response patterns in Appalachian music tie to the rhythms of Africa and how do they show up in the work of Appalachian poets? How do rappers throughout the world create their unique combinations of rhythm and language? What is the link between vocalese and jazz? Come join the adventure! Drums, sticks, pencils, and paper provided!

STEAM: The Science & Philosophy of Music

Artist: Samuel Irvin IV | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Marrying degrees in jazz studies and philosophy, Sam Irvin’s perspective-widening curriculum inspires students to engage with the fundamentals of music. Sam uses his extensive experience as a WNC-based jazz director, synthesizer technician, multi-genre musical performer, and composer to teach the inner-workings of sound, establishing a foundation from which individuals can discover their unique musical expression through experimentation & improvisation. Sam tailors his residencies and workshops to connect directly with K-12 North Carolina Essential Standards. From using an oscilloscope and synthesizer to manipulate and measure amplitude, frequency and slope of sound waves, to basic pattern identification in harmony and rhythm, these immersions make learning fun & interactive. Regardless of the learning and creative process, for Sam, the most important outcome is to challenge perspective, expressing oneself and appreciating each other and the wider world.

Living Folk Tales

Artists: Marci Bernstein | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Storytelling is how humans connect to past and future generations.

Cultures grow and change based on the stories that they tell. Living Folk Tales uses theater to visit ancient stories from around the world and explore how they relate to our current community culture. Students will be on their feet, using themes and structures from classic stories, to improvise their own modern folk tales. We’ll use the art of theater as a vehicle to strengthen academic skills like sequencing and narrative structures, as well as soft skills like cooperative problem solving and building selfconfidence. With nearly three decades working with students, Marci is a master at tailoring programs to the individual needs of specific classrooms. She’ll come in with a full curriculum, but she’s got a giant toolbox and will gladly tinker and adapt things to best meet your current curriculum focuses and goals.

Music Appreciation: Songwriting Artist: Kayla McKinney & Melissa McKinney Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Music is a universal language that has the power to transcend cultural differences. Students will not only learn about melodies, rhythm, song structure, and lyrical content, they will also explore the power of music to affect positive change and unlock their voice and their ability to make a difference in the world. Each session will begin an in-depth look into a specific song and its impact on the world. Students will learn about the song and its structure, explore the melody, rhythm, lyrics, chord structure and get guided songwriting time.

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Nurturing the Beat of Life

Artist: Agustin Frederic | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Influenced by the vibrant and diverse musical traditions of his home-country of Costa Rica, Agustin pursued an education in music, social behavioral sciences, and jazz studies in Florida, catapulting him into the world of musicianship. He is a performer, touring and recording drummer and percussionist, sound engineer, music producer, and composer, with esteemed credits across the United States. As a percussion teacher, Agustin’s mission is to awaken life, positivity, and joy. Agustin accesses his extensive repertoire of knowledge and skill in drum set, orchestral percussion, hand drums (Latin, African, Middle Eastern), marching and rudimental percussion, percussion ensemble, and Brazilian percussion to custom tailor programs that cater to the needs and goals of the individual or group. No matter the aim, percussion’s global roots can offer a direction.

West African Djembe Jam

Artist: Adama Dembele | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Adama Dembele is a master djembefola (djembe player) from the Ivory Coast, West Africa. Born into 33 generations of musicians, his family home was known as Djembeso, “the house of djembe.” It is Adama’s mission in life to preserve and promote authentic West African musical and cultural traditions throughout the world. He has toured several continents and collaborated with various major acts and companies such as Yelembad’abidjan, Ensemble Koteba, Congoba, Oumou Sangare, Salif Keita, Affou Keita, Sogona Djata, Toubab Krewe, his original band, Les Amis as well as many others. In teaching, Adama seeks to share a holistic understanding of his deep cultural roots including language, the rhythms of the djembe drum and accompanying dances and customary dress, the historical context and storytelling properties of the music, a sense of place and more.

Classical Comedy

Artist: Skyler Goff & Ashleigh Goff | Available For: Residency, workshop, performance

Program Overview: Good Company Youth Theatre is dedicated to using performance to help youth discover the people they wish to become in a safe yet challenging environment. Using classical theatre such as commedia dell’arte, Shakespearean, and Greek Tragedy, students will learn how to use their bodies and voices as instruments to tell stories. Not only will they learn how to perform for an audience, but they will also be responsible for creating the script, props, costumes, and set, making their final production entirely youth driven. Instructors Ashleigh and Skyler Goff have a total of over 25 years of experience with youth and theatre; Ashleigh having graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University and founded The Montford Moppets Theatre Troop and Skyler having designed after school and summer programs for youth for over eight years, it is their mission to bring performance to communities around the country that show off just how brilliant their children can be.

Stop Motion Animation | Live Action Movie Making Artist: Lisa Smith | Available For: Residency

Stop Motion Animation: Bring your subject to life with Stop Motion Animation at the intersection of art and technology! Youth create artwork with cut paper, whiteboards and clay to be used in a movie of their own design. Using digital cameras and animation stands to shoot a series of photos, they will then edit their movies on laptops, adding music, voice overs and sound effects.

Live Action Movie Making: Do you love to dress up in costume and act? Ever dreamed of being a movie director? Students will plan, shoot and produce their own movie while learning to work with camera equipment and editing software.

Either course can adapt easily to all ages and to explore a specific culture, concept, or subject area, as students collaborate to create a narrative, documentary or experimental movie. Additionally, these classes address Visual Arts Curriculum Standards and can adapt to other Curriculum Standards as well. Students will receive a digital copy of their movie. All materials & equipment provided.

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COMMUNITY-DRIVEN PROGRAMS Easel Rider Mobile Art Lab // U-LEAF Mobile Stage // Community Events

Easel Rider Mobile Art Lab

U-LEAF Mobile Stage

Program Overview: Easel Rider – Asheville’s Mobile Art Lab – is all about connecting people and art. LEAF Global Arts operates the Easel Rider to help boost access to public art. The fully-customized Sprinter Van contains 80 linear feet of art supplies! Providing interactive hands-on activities that challenge the Asheville community and beyond to experience creation on the go!

Program Overview: The “U-LEAF” (short for “Unfolding LEAF Mobile Stage”) is a one-of-a-kind mobile art stage, built in collaboration with Asheville Design Build Studio through a grant project featuring 13 scholarshipped students who worked tirelessly for two months fabricating models, workshopping blueprints and surveying community needs.

Today, LEAF has a growing roster of 10+ Easel Rider Teaching Artists that facilitate a visual art project related to the theme of the community event or cultural art craft.

Easel Rider Mobile Art Lab is used in many different capacities: after-school programs, community functions, specific school activities, outdoor activities & camps reaching roughly reaching roughly 3,623+ youth at over 170 events in 2019.

Semester Offered: SPRING, SUMMER & FALL Cost: $150 (1-3 hours) / $300 (4-6 hours) Teaching Artists: Marsha Almodovar, Erinn Hartley, Edwin Salas Acosta, Robyn Josephs, Madison Link, Jenny Pickens, Vanessa Guerrero, Lilianna Lopez, Tarah Singh, Cristal Rose Fox, Ashley Rivera, Chaka Gordon Graphic Artist: Sir Tom Foolery Art + Design Sponsored By: Harmony Motors Program Partners: Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff & Maybin Mission

Our purpose for creating the U-LEAF, is to foster pathways of access, inclusivity & community-building through the collaborative production of high integrity events in neighborhoods, community centers, public parks, and even private functions.

The U-LEAF is available in a variety of forms ranging from a simple stage deployment to a comprehensive experience!

Semester Offered: SPRING, SUMMER & FALL Cost: $400 (stage only) / $800 (full per day)* *Stage only. Does not include sound engineer or PA sound system. The pricing for the rental and use of the U-LEAF stage will be determined based upon the nature of your event, status of your organization (private vs. non-profit), and partnership status with LEAF Global Arts.

U-LEAF programming made possible in part by support from Beattie Foundation & Bradham Family Foundation.

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Community Events Program Overview: Community Events are community driven programs that showcase local artist talent and connect, build and strengthen our local community by developing opportunities for young and emerging artists to build sustainable relationships that connect them back to LEAF’s mission of connecting cultures and creating community through music & arts.

A community event can include LEAF teaching artists, the Easel Rider Mobile Art Lab, the ULEAF stage, a sound engineer and DJ’s, or customize one of your own! *To find out more details about these events as well as our nonprofit pricing, please contact our Community Events Coordinator and plan your next special event!

EaselRider@theLEAF.org Semester Offered: Offered year-round | Cost: For-profit & non-profit pricing available.

Details: For more details on custom events, pricing menus & offerings, please visit our website at theLEAF.org/schoolsandstreets.

Want to learn more?

Visit our website at theLEAF.org, email easelrider@theLEAF.org or call 828.68.MUSIC [686-8742]

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LIVING & LEARNING SERIES Cultural Exchanges // Cultural Expeditions // Learning Journeys // Partners In Education

Learning Journeys Program Overview: Since 2014, LEAF has been hosting conversations for & by the local community and our Teaching Artist called “Learning Journeys” these discussions give our LEAF family an opportunity to connect, engage and get inspired to the work and efforts that improve our community and world around us!

Each month, Learning Journeys are paired with a theme, and a speaker, panel or workshop. We are invited to share in the experience to learn and connect.

Learning Journeys will last approximately 60-90 minutes, depending on how long Q&A is the speaker shares. This is a donation based gathering, with some kid-friendly options. We invite YOU to join us. RSVP is requested.

Please e-mail EaselRider@theLEAF.org for further information Semester Offered: SPRING, SUMMER & FALL Cost: FREE to attendees Details: 12pm-1pm Every 4th Thursday (except May & October) Dates: Location: Varies (see invites for details)

Kennedy Center Partners In Education Program Overview: In 2018, LEAF Community Arts and Buncombe County Schools had the honor of becoming a part of the Kennedy Center’s Partners in Education program, furthering our ability to connect cultures through music and arts.

The Kennedy Center’s Partners in Education program facilitates educational partnerships between arts organizations around the nation and their local school systems. Representatives from these organizations work together to establish or expand professional learning programs in the arts for teachers. These events for teachers focus on either teaching about the arts, or teaching other subject areas through the arts.

Through this partnership, LEAF has access to a plethora of educational resources, more visibility through the Kennedy Center branding, and a network of peers across the country with similar goals. Beginning with a cohort of 30 teachers across Buncombe County representing each grade level and a diverse array of subject areas, we plan to increase our reach each year by diving in with a new cohort of Buncombe County teachers.

Email education@theleaf.org or call 828.68.MUSIC [686-8742] for booking information. *Photo courtesy of Tim Reaves, Buncombe County Schools Digital Communications Specialist

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education@theleaf.org

Cultural Exchanges

Cultural Expeditions

Program Overview: Cultural exchanges are an integral part of what we do at LEAF Global Arts as we work to cultivate a stronger global community and connect cultures around the world. LEAF International cultural exchanges result in life-changing experiences, both for the participating International students as well as the larger LEAF community involved. During cultural exchanges, LEAF International culture keepers, teaching artists, and youth share their traditional cultural art forms with local + global communities, creating global citizenship experiences and raising awareness on the importance of cultural competency. These exchanges happen in conjunction with the LEAF Festivals & LEAF Downtown (May, August, & October) as well as yearround.

Cultural Expeditions are paid trips for LEAFers to visit LEAF International Programs. These trips are designed to provide an opportunity for LEAFers to connect with the important work that LEAF does globally while building strong relationships between communities (cultivating global citizenship) and creating sustainable revenue streams of support. Be a part of a journey that will allow you to immerse yourself into the heart of LEAF International and its mission. This opportunity will take you and your involvement with LEAF to new heights through cross-cultural experiences with several LEAF International programs including Guatemala, Haiti, Costa Rica and more! Learn about the cultures, preservation methods, and musical traditions of the First Nations of Costa Rica, the deep roots of heritage in Haiti, and the cultivation of art in Guatemala. See how LEAF International is contributing to the vivacity of these traditions by supporting cultural knowledge transfer to the next generations.

“The youth that are taking part in the drum and dance classes are all excited to learn about their own culture this way. The pride they express while performing and also teaching their audience about Haiti’s history and culture through music and dance is unquestionably the most touching and humbling part of the whole experience.” ~ Ingvill Ceide, LEAF International Haiti Partner & Prosjekt Haiti Founder

See the world with LEAF! Visit LEAF International programs in Guatemala, Haiti, Costa Rica and more.

For info on how to immerse, visit theLEAF.org/CulturalExpeditions.

international@theLEAF.org

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LEAF International is dedicated to cultural preservation, the fostering of global citizenship and cultural exchange. LEAF collaborates with community partners to support Culture Keepers, leaders who hold the highest understanding of culture/ tradition in their community, and work to preserve their native languages, land, instruments, costumes, and musical tradition by teaching them to local youth. Currently, LEAF International operates in 10 countries through 13 different programs led by 18 different Culture Keepers engaging 3250+ youth weekly in the study and appreciation of their cultural traditions, empowering them with the life skills necessary to be active agents of change in their communities and in our world at large.

Impact:

• • • • • • • • •

Cultural and historical awareness Preservation of and pride in cultural traditions Familiarity with native instrument, song, dance, ritual, folklore and costuming Community performance experience Increased self-esteem and confidence Indigenous language skills LEAF Love & Connections Go Global Map Wall Development of interpersonal trust through role models and mentorship Increased sense of community, teamwork and camaraderie Leadership skills

These programs have ONEmic studios.

Easel Rider Art Bar

Where We Work Sound Underground

BEQUIA

HAITI

COSTA RICA

GUATEMALA IVORY COAST

RWANDA

Cultural Immesion Room

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LEAF Live Stage

Cultural Dive Ins

TANZANIA

Virtual Reality CAVE

ONEmic Studio

Sougou Artist Market

MEXICO

Instrument Petting Zoo

NOLA

PANAMA

Del Cardo Local History

international@theLEAF.org

SAINT VINCENT & THE GRENADINES BEQUIA

SAINT VINCENT & THE GRENADINES KINGSTOWN

{ Founded in 2006 }

{ Founded in 2020 }

“The tradition almost died here. There were no youth interested; Now many kids play. It is good for the tradition; it is good for their minds.”

“Our culture is being pushed to the side; however, Steel Pan drumming teaches discipline, values, & freedom.

The youth are so free when they drum for the culture.” ~ Kesslon Wilson, LEAF International St. Vincent Culture Keeper

~ Ravi, Parent of LEAF International Bequia Student

• Cultural Focus: Steel Pan Traditions • Youth Currently Enrolled: 22 • Program Coordinator: Levi Walker DESCRIPTION

LEAF International has partnered with Bequia Community High School to start a unique, music & arts education program that teaches traditional steel pan drumming to children on the island. Called “Kids on Pan,” this program has grown from an introductory class trying to get kids excited about their cultural heritage to an established program with dedicated kids that are becoming professional steel drum musicians.

When the program started in Bequia, only one child on the small island had knowledge of the steel pan tradition. Due to Westernization and the relative expensiveness of the cost and regular tuning of the steel pans, the steel pan tradition was slowly fading out and losing relevance among the upcoming generation. Now, with the help of an inspired and engaged community, over 70 children have participated in the “Kids on Pans” program, resulting in a revival of the vibrant steel pan tradition.

• Cultural Focus: Steel Pan Traditions • Youth Currently Enrolled: 100+ • Culture Keeper: Kesslon Wilson DESCRIPTION

The LEAF Elite Steel Orchestra was established 16 years ago by Kesslon Wilson. Inspired by Steel Pan drumming himself as a youth, Kesslon proficiently learned every instrument used in a traditional Caribbean steel pan orchestra. His passion for music is matched with his passion to help youth, as he has been a teacher for more than 28 years. This program was created out of a strong desire to continue steel pan drumming on the mainland of St. Vincent while giving youth a positive cultural activity to focus on.

IMPACT

Through the project, students gain: • Steel Pan drumming skills • Community performance experience • Increased self-esteem & confidence • Cultural awareness & historical knowledge • Friendship, teamwork, & leadership skills • Community recognition

IMPACT

The “Kids on Pans” program has brought both tangible and intangible impacts to individuals and the community at large. Through the project, students gain: • Steel Pan drumming skills • Community performance experience • Increased self-esteem & confidence • Cultural awareness & historical knowledge • Friendship, teamwork, & leadership skills • Community recognition

international@theLEAF.org

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NGABE, BRIBRI & CABECAR FIRST NATIONS, COSTA RICA { Founded in 2013 } “Teaching music has become a new way of speaking to people. It has opened new channels of telling the people we are here and we have a culture.” ~ Alexis Rodriguez, LEAF International Culture Keeper, Ngäbe First Nation

• Cultural Focus: Ceremonial practices through dance, drum & indigenous chants • Youth Currently Enrolled: 100+ LEAF Love & Connections Easel Rider Art Bar ONEmic Studio Go Global Map Wall • Teaching Artist: Luis Porras Mora • Partner: Proyecto Jirondai • Culture Keepers: Alexis Rodriguez (Ngäbe), Elvis Pitar (Bribri), Luis Salazaar (Cabecar)

NGÄBE NATION

Sound Underground

LEAF Live Stage

Cultural Dive Ins

Sougou Artist Market

In La Casona, the people of the Ngäbe First Nation live on a comarca, roughly translated to “reservation,” where indigenous groups have exclusive land rights & some autonomy. The Ngäbe people have lost much of their culture due to colonization & globalization.

This is particularly true Virtual forReality theCAVEPanama Ngäbe.

Those Cultural Immesion Room Instrument Petting Zoo Del Cardo Local History that migrated to Costa Rica have been separated from their cultural roots. Certain indigenous knowledge of traditional instruments, the remembrance of songs & the lineage ofListening some are all disappearing.

Here, Putumayo Stationdialects Welcome Station Music Trail Photo Booth LEAF International Costa Rica is supporting the Centro de Cultura Ngäbe, founded by community member & musician, Alexis Rodriguez.

Alexis teaches ancient stories to the kids, painting exceptional illustrations in accompaniment. He also teaches children the different traditional dances & songs of the Ngäbe people. Through supporting his endogenous efforts, we are connecting him to a larger network of support to bolster his impact to the Ngäbe communities he is a part of & serves.

IMPACT

Through the program, students gain: • Lessons in ancient stories & culture of elders • Indigenous language skills • Performance opportunities throughout Costa Rica • Awareness and preservation of cultural traditions 22

BRIBRI NATION

In 2013, LEAF International teamed up with Proyecto Jirondai to support the preservation & revitalization of ancient Bribri music, art & language traditions in the southern mountainous region of Talamanca, Costa Rica.

The culture & language of the First Nations in Costa Rica have been marginalized for 2+ generations. Currently, 90% of all linguistics diversity in the Americas have disappeared or are in the process of. UNESCO predicts all native languages will disappear in this century.

LEAF International Costa Rica supports & empowers the Bribri First Nation to revitalize their cultural traditions.

They connect to their ancestors, elders & each other through song, dance & drum. The community also has a very progressive radio station & recording studio that has been in existence for many years. With use of radio, the Bribri share their music & recordings of ancient songs with the rest of the country. This ability is empowering to them.

IMPACT

Through the project, students gain: • Musical skills in learning songs from their elders • Mentoring from teachers in the community • Drummaking skills • Performance opportunities in the community • Increased self-esteem & pride knowing their traditions • Awareness of cultural traditions • Indigenous knowledge systems of creative expression • Local community-oriented radio station

CABECAR NATION

With partner Proyecto Jirondai, a third LEAF International program was created with the Cabecar First Nation.

Located on Alto Chirripo a 22-mile hike from the nearest vehicle accessible road, Luis Salazar teaches approx 55 students’ ancient song & dance, creation stories, sacred ceremonies, lullabies and healing plant medicine.

Additionally, Luis Salazar travels to Ujarras once a month to teach another group of students this ancient wisdom as well.

IMPACT

Through the program, students gain: • Increased Self Esteem • Increased Ability & Skills • Increased Awareness & Knowledge • Friendship and Teamwork • Respect for Culture and History • Pride in their Culture • Leadership Skills • Cultural Preservation • Traditional medicinal methods of self-preservation

international@theLEAF.org

EL TEJAR, GUATEMALA

ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST

{ Founded in 2007 }

{ Founded in 2017 }

“Art is to share and it is very important to teach our traditions to our youth so that they value and appreciate our culture. When our students perform music it gives importance to our traditions.” ~ Sara Morales, LEAF International Guatemala Teaching Artist

• Cultural Focus: Traditional Strings Instrument Band • Youth Currently Enrolled: 150 • Teaching Artists: Sara Morales & Stephany Munoz • Partner: Proyecto para las Escuelas Guatemaltecas (PEG) DESCRIPTION

LEAF International works with PEG, Child Aid, and the CEDIN School in El Tejar to provide an after-school music & cultural arts program. Classes include Marimba, String Instruments, Percussion, Keyboard, Music Theory, Music History & Rhythmic Reading.

LEAF International funds the music teachers’ salaries, instruments made by local artists & Cultural Exchanges for the students & Teaching Artists to interact with other LEAF International programs & perform at LEAF Festival.

IMPACT

Through the project, students gain: • Orchestra & Choir Ensemble Practice • Performance Opportunities • Cultural Exchange at LEAF Festival • Creative & Critical Thinking • Leadership Skills • Sense of Community

GUATEMALA: JUNE 30 – JULY 5, 2020

Dive deep into the community & connect with the kids, music traditions, teachers, & partners while immersing in the beauty of Antigua, Atitlan Lake & more!

international@theLEAF.org

“I want to keep the culture because 75% of Djembe players in Abidjan study under me. They know music is in the Dembele blood & our experiences are displayed through our music.” ~ Dramane Dembele, LEAF International Culture Keeper

• Cultural Focus: West African Drum & Dance • Youth Currently Enrolled: 75 • Culture Keepers: Dramane & Adama Dembele DESCRIPTION

Demolished in 2015 by the government, the Djembeso Drum & Dance Education Center was a place for people of all ages to study drumming, dance, and learn about West African culture. Local Asheville musicians have traveled to study there, including members of Zansa and Toubab Krewe, as well as countless others from around the world. The Dembele household, known as Djembeso, or House of Djembe, has been a link between Asheville and West Africa for over a decade, though the family has been sharing their music for centuries. The Dembele family has been passing on their musical heritage and culture for nearly 700 years. Because of the great amount of respect LEAF has for African traditions and its culture keepers, LEAF partners with Adama Dembele to support the continuation of West African Drum and Dance classes in Ivory Coast.

IMPACT

This LEAF International program includes: • Traditional West African dance & drum rehearsals • Monthly Community Performances in Ivory Coast & Mali • Meals for youth between rehearsals • Economic Opportunities for culture keepers • Discipline skills • Selfesteem & pride at keeping their traditions alive

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KIGALI, RWANDA

ARUSHA, TANZANIA

{ Founded in 2006 }

{ Founded in 2009 }

“We are learning to drum as young women in Rwanda. This is a phenomenon and we are creating our own legacy.”

“We want everyone to know about Tanzanian culture because its high-spirited & full of life.

You can’t see what we do on a TV . . . it’s much more than media can express.”

~ Leonice, LEAF International Rwanda Student

• Cultural Focus: Rwandan Drum & Dance • Youth Currently Enrolled: 150+ • Culture Keeper: David Kwizera • Teaching Artists: Claude Nyandwi DESCRIPTION

In Kinyarwanda, the word “Intore” refers to a person who is given hope. This new-found hope gives the person strength to learn new skills, see life through a new lens, and become a leader. An Intore is a true hero.

In 2006, LEAF International began working with 25 children (known as the LEAF Intore Troupe) who lived on the street in Rwanda, reaching out to them with traditional drumming classes. Now years later, this group have grown into men and have moved forward in their life. However, this extraordinary path led to the development of a phenomenal culture keeper, teaching artist, & culture center that supports more than 200 youth in the Kacyiru district of Kigali, Rwanda. This group of youth are known as the LEAF Rwanda JR Troupe.

IMPACT

Through the project, students gain: • Weekly traditional drum & dance classes • Training in valuable skill development • Self-esteem and pride at keeping their traditions alive • Discipline skills • Community building through cultural arts • Sponsored school fees

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~ Brian Linus, Former LEAF International Tanzania Student

• Cultural Focus: East African Drum & Dance • Youth Currently Enrolled: 140 • Culture Keeper: Fredy N’ganga • ONEmic Studio Teaching Artist: Edward Ndoleli • Partner: Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Go Global Map Wall

LEAF Love & Connections

Easel Rider Art Bar

ONEmic Studio

DESCRIPTION

With the support of LEAF International, Ilboru Secondary LEAF Live Stage Cultural Dive Ins host Sougou Artist Market School & Sound St.Underground Joseph Girls School in Arusha, music programs that teach youth East African dances, songs & drum rhythms. The youth perform concerts regularly that highlight the various tribes and cultures in Tanzania while promoting the environmental messages of our partner, Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots.

Cultural Immesion Room

Virtual Reality CAVE

Instrument Petting Zoo

Del Cardo Local History

Young boys and girls from all over Tanzania attend the prestigious Ilboru & St Josephs’ Secondary Schools in Arusha. Prospective students must pass an exam to be accepted.

Families Welcome oftenStationcannot Music afford the $1000 Putumayo Listening Station Trail Photo Booth annual tuition, so the opportunity to learn their culture & enhance their economic livelihood is essential.

IMPACT

Through the project, students gain: • Traditional Tanzanian choreography skills • Vocal & harmonizing skills • Local instrument familiarity • Leadership skills • Increased self-esteem & performance opportunities • Opportunities to work in environmental preservation

international@theLEAF.org

VALLADOLID, MEXICO { Founded in 2007 } “We love to share our culture and being in Asheville gave us a platform to do so globally.”

~ Mirna Rodriguez, LEAF International Mexico Coordinator

• Cultural Focus: Ancestral Mayan Music, Theatre, & Traditional Mayan Ceremonies • Youth Currently Enrolled: 120 • Teaching Artist: Marco Lievano Belan

DESCRIPTION

LEAF International’s music program in Valladolid, Mexico is held at Ramon Osorio, a middle school for students who need to work during the day. The school is committed to teaching 21st century skills and Mayan traditions through integrating the Mayan language into many of their activities. The students perform their ancestral music as they play Mayan instruments from cultures such as: Cabeza de Cochino, Xtoles, Noche de Ocarinas, El Tunkul, La Cigarra, and Los Mapuches.

The goal of the program is to ensure community growth, revive cultural sustainability, and instill local pride through the excellent challenge and beauty of music.

The school and its teachers are highly committed to working with the students on creating cross-disciplinary productions that share the meanings of Mayan instruments, music, dance, and language into the student’s studies.

IMPACT

Through the project, students gain: • Musical skills on indigenous instruments • Mayan language instruction • Performance experience • Increased self-esteem • Teamwork and leadership • Respect for their culture and traditions

international@theLEAF.org

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA, USA { Founded in 2016 } “Everything we do is about the culture. It must be that way because that’s the way to preserve it.” ~ Chief Shaka Zulu, LEAF International New Orleans Culture Keeper

• Cultural Focus: Mardi Gras Indian Traditions (Drumming, Stilt Walking, Sewing, & Traditional Chants) • Youth Currently Enrolled: 20 • Culture Keeper: Chief Shaka Zulu

DESCRIPTION

At LEAF, we recognize and celebrate New Orleans culture, one of the most vibrant living cultures in the world. Over the past 20 years, Shaka & Na’imah Zulu have performed at LEAF Festivals and taught with LEAF Schools & Streets.

Additionally, they have gone to Tanzania and Haiti to start four LEAF International programs across the globe.

We recognize this global cultural treasure, Shaka Zulu, who is leading his community in cultural preservation.

In 2016, LEAF International partnered with Burial Beer Co to support the continual efforts of preserving New Orleans culture. This year, Beer Burial Co will release its 4th seasonal Mardi Gras Indian beer dedicated to the culture. 100% of the proceeds benefit the LEAF International Feather Fund.

IMPACT

Through the project, students are empowered by: • Cultural Traditions passed on • Visualizing, designing & sewing skills • Increased self-esteem • Awareness of cultural traditions • Leadership skills Burial Beer Company shares their love and dedication to helping support and preserve the vibrant culture of New Orleans by becoming a LEAF International New Orleans partner in 2016.

Each year, Burial Beer releases a seasonal Mardi Gras Indian beer contributing 100% of proceeds to the LEAF International Feather Fund preserving the costuming traditions of this culture.

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PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI

PANAMA CITY, PANAMA

{ Founded in 2013 }

{ Founded in 2015, Relocated in 2019 }

“Music is the language I speak that makes me feel free. I can express all of myself through music.”

“As we look back in history, there are very few trails of our ancestors left. Now is my time to ensure that no one will ever have to search far to know who us Guna Yala people are.”

~ Stanley Lubin, LEAF International ONEmic Studio artist

• Cultural Focus: Traditional Voodoo Rhythms • Youth Currently Enrolled: 24 • Culture Keepers: Johanne Dejean & Bois Gris • Partner: Prosjekt Haiti Go Global Map Wall

LEAF Love & Connections

Easel Rider Art Bar

~ Yoba Barrentes, LEAF International Panama Culture Keeper

ONEmic Studio

DESCRIPTION

LEAF International, Prosjekt Haiti (a Norwegian nonprofit), and Boukman Eksperyans (a Haitian musical group) all Sound partner toStageimplement and sustain theMarket Undergroundtogether LEAF Live Cultural Dive Ins Sougou Artist LEAF International Haiti program. Twice a week, members of Boukman Eksperyans give drum and dance lessons to children in Project Haiti’s Youth Club, free of cost. These youth are extraordinary and dedicated. The long-term vision for the program is that they will eventually serve as music teachers for younger children.

The benefits DelofCardothis Cultural Immesion Room Virtual Reality CAVE Instrument Petting Zoo Local History program extend to the local community, including the drum maker commissioned to provide instruments and the women in the tailor shop Atelier Manman Troll (apart of Prosjekt Haiti), who make costumesMusicfor the youth.Photo Booth Putumayo Listening Station Welcome Station Trail

IMPACT

Through the project, students gain: • Classes in Haitian sacred drumming • Traditional dance classes • Reconnecting to local traditions • The opportunity to perform in the community

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• Cultural Focus: Ceremonial practices through dance, drum & indigenous instruments • Youth Currently Enrolled: 45+ • Culture Keeper: Yoba Barrantes

DESCRIPTION

This program is dedicated to preserving the traditional Guna Yala folk dance styles & instruments. Culture keepers share the history of their ancient mythology through song, dance, & ceremonial practices to be passed down to the next generation. This program supports the paradisiacal Guna Yala comarca, an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea. The importance of this work cannot be understated. In a world where indigenous communities are struggling to keep their traditions alive and maintain access to their native lands, providing these communities with solidarity to keep their work thriving is necessary.

IMPACT

Through this program, students are empowered by: • Lessons in ancient stories & culture of elders • Indigenous language skills • Performance opportunities throughout Panama • Awareness and preservation of cultural traditions

international@theLEAF.org

SIGNATURE EVENTS LEAF Festival // LEAF Downtown AVL

LEAF Festival LEAF Festival is an inter-generational celebration of world culture that uses music, arts, and creativity to champion artistic expression, instill cultural competency, and build a diverse & welcoming community. For 25 years, each May & October a global family of over 12,000 people join together upon the beautiful Lake Eden grounds to experience the power music, art and culture has to transform lives, strengthen community, and foster unity. With over 400 performing artists representing 12 different countries, 5 family adventure villages, 80+ craft & culinary vendors, 50+ healing arts, music & earth skills workshops, and a global community steeped in tradition . . . LEAF Festival gathers all walks of life to take part in an unforgettable cultural experience.

Join us this Spring for the 50th LEAF Festival May 14-17. Tickets available at theLEAF.org/tickets

LEAF Downtown AVL LEAF Downtown celebrates communities, creativity, diversity, and families in the heart of downtown Asheville. LEAF Downtown furthers Asheville’s goals of access, community partnership & economic vitality in the greater Asheville area, while driving the greater LEAF Community Arts mission to connect cultures & create community through music & arts.

At LEAF Downtown, experience a world-class music, art & cultural immersion featuring over 200 performers on 3 stages, 70 hand-selected artisan craft & food vendors, non-stop family adventure programming, and the Voices of Asheville cultural epicenter. No matter who you are, where you are from, and what lights your fire, LEAF Downtown celebrates YOU – Championing diversity, equity & inclusivity at the heart of the event. Join us the summer August 7&8!

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artists@theLEAF.org

NOW OPEN!

LEAF GLOBAL ARTS “Cultivating Cultural Curiosity” Monday » Saturday 11a-7p | Tuesday » Closed |Sunday » 11a-3p Visit us @ 19 Eagle St, Suite 120, Asheville, NC, 28801 General Public » $12 | Members & Locals » $10 | Under 5 » Free Annual Passes Available! Individual $34 | Family $75 LEAF is excited to announce the opening of our Global Arts experience in the historic Del Cardo building on Eagle Street in downtown Asheville. At this new center, guests can enjoy educational experiences rooted in music, art, community and culture. The 3,300 sq. ft. facility features an interactive world map where visitors can explore a wide range of cultural art forms, an international immersion room that will transport visitors across the globe through a sensory experience, and a global sound underground to encourage experimentation with unique musical instruments from around the world. A virtual reality mini-theatre, intimate performance stage, interactive artist workstations and an area dedicated to preserving the history of the Block are also highlights of the new space.

To learn more, please visit theLEAF.org/globalartscenter

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This project is made possible in part with support from the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority. LEAF GRATITUDE!

LEAF GLOBAL ARTS CLASSES & WORKSHOPS REGISTRATION FOR LEAF GLOBAL ARTS CLASSES & WORKSHOPS NOW OPEN! You’re invited to explore the world through immersive music & art experiences & cultural connections, fostering global citizenship and opening pathways of understanding … for all ages. This engaging experience has been designed to “Cultivate Cultural Curiosity” while honoring the rich history of the Del Cardo building. Locals and visitors can enjoy Classes & Workshops or our exciting educational Field Trips focused on experiences rooted in music, art, community and culture.

CURRENT CLASS OFFERINGS Hip Hop, Breakdance, & Choreography with Otto Vazquez Elementary Age Mondays at 5:30 - 6:30pm | 3/16/20 - 5/4/20

#HUMAN project with Tarah Singh All Ages (1 session) Saturday at 2 - 3:15pm | 2/29/2020

World Percussion with Agustin Frederic Late Elementary to Early Middle School Age Tuesdays at 5:30 - 6:30pm | 3/16/20 - 5/5/20

Tote and Paint Workshop with Tarah Singh Young Adult to Adult (1 session) Saturday at 3:30 - 4:30pm | 2/29/2020

West African Drumming with Adama Dembele Elementary Age Wednesday at 4 - 5pm | 3/18/20 - 5/6/20 Adult Friday 5:45 - 7pm | 3/20/20-5/8/20

Creative Writing Using the Intuitive Mind with Melissa Henry Adult (2 sessions) Saturdays at 5:30 - 7pm | 2/22/2020 & 3/14/2020

Intro to DJing with Nex Millen Elementary to Early Middle School Age Thursday at 5:30 - 6:30pm | 3/19/20-5/7/20

Puppetry Workshop with Edwin Salas Youth (2 sessions) Mondays at 3:30 - 4:30pm | 2/24/2020 & 3/2/2020 Adult (2 sessions) Mondays at 3:30 - 4:30pm | 3/9/202 & 3/16/2020

FIELD TRIPS AT LEAF GLOBAL A field trip to LEAF Global can open up your students’ eyes to a global perspective through music and arts from around the world!

Students will be able to experience and access:

• • • • •

Global immersion experience Go Global Interactive World Map Sougou Artist Market Easel Rider Art Bar Cultural Dive-in Kiosks

• Virtual Reality Cave • ONEMicStudio – Electric Music

and recording Lab (open hours) • StoryTelling by Community Elders (Specific times)

• Selfie station • Community History of Del Cardo • Putumayo World Music Listening Station

• Murals by local artists

Ignite your students’ cultural curiosity and enhance your classroom curriculum.

Field trip experience can be tailored to suit the needs of your group.

Overall experience lasts approximately 90 mins.

EARLY CHILDHOOD FIELD TRIPS –— Ages 3-5 ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS –– Students in grades K–5 MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS –– Students in grades 6–12 For more information on scheduling and pricing options please contact Marsha Almodovar GlobalArts@theLEAF.org (request at least 3 weeks prior to your anticipated visit) 29

Connecting Cultures & Creating Community Through music & art

theLEAF.org 828.68 MUSIC [686.8742]