Libation 2017 is kicking off the 46th Annual International African Arts Festival with feature performances by Blitz The Ambassador and Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater on Sunday, June 4, at the Restoration Plaza in Bedford-Stuyvesant.
Libation is the annual opening celebration and a first taste of what the community can look forward to during the International African Arts Festival in July. With the goal to foster respect for African culture as upheld by artists and groups in the United States, Libation 2017 will focus on a tribute to ancient and modern Ghana, in honor of the country's 60th anniversary of independence.
A worthy tribute to Ghana, Brooklyn-based rapper Blitz The Ambassador and the Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater (AYAADT) are this year's headliner for the festivities. Blitz the Ambassador, who was born and raised in Ghana, is known for his musical messages of unity among the worldwide African community. Also AYAADT, a BESSIE-nominated company, is heavily influenced by the traditions, arts and culture of Ghana; the ensemble's name "Asase Yaa" means "Mother Earth" in the Ghanaian Twi dialect.
Additional entertainment will be provided by DJ Pure Magic, Milagro, a Santana tribute band, and Hearts of Steel, a pan orchestra. Libation 2017 will also include an awards ceremony, honoring outstanding members of the IAA Festival community, and a dance party. As in previous years, arts and crafts vendors will be on-site.
Libation 2017
WHEN: Sunday, June 4, 2017, 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
WHERE: Restoration Plaza, 1368 Fulton Street, NY 11216
TICKETS: General: $15.00 (via Eventbrite, at the IAAFestival headquarters, and at the door on the day of the event)
