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Tuesday, July 15, 10:30 am & 12:30 pm
Stories from Asia and Africa
Two inspiring storytellers, Eshu Bumpus and Motoko, bring their respective cultures to life during joint performances in the Museum Auditorium. A Parents’ Choice Award-Winner, Motoko enchants audiences as she weaves ancient lore and original tales with lyrical movement and traditional music. Her repertoire includes Asian folktales, Zen stories, mime vignettes, and comical narrations in rakugo, a Japanese storytelling tradition. In addition to his acclaimed storytelling, Eshu Bumpus is an accomplished jazz vocalist and a master at physical characterization. He infuses his African and African-American folktales with music, humor and mystery. Performances at 10:30 am and 12:30 pm, free with Museum admission, free to Museum Members.
Wednesday, July 23, 1–2 pm
Taino Music and Dancing
Roberto Mucaro Borrero brings his troupe of Taino musicians and dancers to the Museum Auditorium for a lively performance of one of the hemisphere’s oldest cultures. The indigenous people of the Caribbean, the Taino greeted Columbus in 1492 and have kept their traditions alive over the centuries. An authority on his Native culture, Mr. Borrero and his group have performed at the United Nations, the American Museum of Natural History and other prestigious venues. He discusses the meaning of the various songs and how Taino instruments are played and made. From 1–2 pm, $5 per person with museum admission.

Thursday, July 31, 11 am–3 pm
Drumming Fun: The Beat Goes On!

Drummers wanted! Bring your drum and jam away with fellow percussionists in this special rhythmic get-together in the Gathering Space. Rip it up and share traditions, styles and instruments with your fellow musicians. The drum is the heartbeat of many Native American communities, and in ancient times drummers were often revered in their societies because they helped to connect the living with the spirit world. Dwight “Professor of Percussion” Baldwin heads up the jamming with his collection of drums that people can try their hands on. The jamming is from 11 am–3 pm and is free with museum admission, free to Museum Members. A special 45-minute performance by the Japanese-American ensemble Odaiko New England in the Museum Auditorium at 1 pm is $5. Founded in 1994, Odaiko weaves the traditional sounds of Japanese taiko with contemporary influences to create a unique Asian-American cultural voice.


A Project of American Anthropological Association


Introduction: What is this project about and why is it important?

More than an exhibit: Special programs, activities, and events

A regional perspective: Race Matters in Indian New England

Special opportunities: Resources, tours, and meeting spaces

Meet our partners: Sponsor profiles

You can help!