The Asase Yaa Cultural Foundation will host its 2nd Annual Rhythms & Movements of African American Culture Festival.
The Bedford-Stuyvesant based organization empowers youth through African Diasporic dance and drumming.
The five-day celebration, marking the 55th anniversary of Black History Month, will run from February 12–16, 2025, at the historic Abrons Art Center’s Playhouse Theater in Manhattan, according to a press release.
Under this year’s theme, “Revolution Requires Resistance,” the festival will explore African American identity, activism, and cultural resilience through a diverse lineup of performances and exhibits. Featuring 14 performances including six youth showcases, four evening headlining events, a visual arts exhibit, and spoken word performances, the festival highlights the contributions of 11 featured artists and over 100 additional contributors.
Festival Highlights include:
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February 12–14: Sunjata Kamalenya by the Experiential Theater Company
This interactive play brings to life the story of Sunjata Keita, the Lion King of West Africa, and explores themes of leadership and unity. Showtimes are at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. -
February 13: Black Dance Pioneers: Legacy Dance Performance
Paying tribute to cultural trailblazers, this evening performance features ensembles including the Asase Yaa Youth Ensemble, FIYAA Forces of Nature Youth Arts Alliance, and Ife Youth Dance Theater. Showtime is at 7:30 p.m. -
February 14: Tribute to Artists of the Revolution: Musical Performance
Acclaimed artists Weedie Braimah and Balla Kouyaté reunite after a decade to perform a powerful set blending West African revolutionary music with African American jazz and soul traditions. A free post-performance talk will follow, hosted by Chief Ayanda Clarke. Showtime is at 7:30 p.m. -
February 15–16: Djembe in the New Millennium: Musical Performance
Featuring the Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater, this electrifying show chronicles the evolution of African dance in New York City, blending West African traditions with modern influences. Evening shows begin at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 3 p.m.
Other performances include the Voices of Resistance: Spoken Word Series, which will open each evening performance from February 13–16 with original works inspired by the festival’s theme, and the Evolution of Activism: Visual Arts Exhibit, showcasing student and activist artwork from Bed-Stuy’s District 16.
The festival, supported by sponsors including The Pierre and Tana Matisse Foundation, Howard Gilman Foundation, and Kolibri Foundation, offers tickets for evening performances at $35 and school performances at $20. Special all-access packages are available for $250, with a four-event pass priced at $125.
Tickets can be purchased through the Abrons Art Center box office.
