The Chicago Children’s Museum is celebrating music from around the globe this month with World Music May. The event will explore the rich musical traditions of Korea, Greece, India and Nigeria. They will feature expert advice from individuals and organizations from these countries and cultures throughout Chicago.
The program is an outgrowth of the museum’s Passport to the World events and will feature live performances and culturally authentic hands-on workshops, demonstrations and activities.
The schedule is:
Korea, May 3-6
World Music May kicks off with a celebration of Korea, a culture with a history in Chicago dating back to the early 20th century. The festivities include several drum and gong performances, martial arts demonstrations, a fashion show, traditional stringed instrument workshops, and an opportunity to taste a variety of Korean treats.
Participating organizations include Chicago Korean Dance Company, the Korean American-Association of Chicago, Korean YWCA and the Korean Dance Institute.
Greece, May 10-13
After a trip to the Far East, the Children’s Museum offers children and families the opportunity to discover and enjoy the musical heritage of Greece. The event features multiple interactive music and dance performances, cyclops mask-making, vase painting, heroic shield making, and traditional Greek treats.
The event is being offered in partnership with the National Hellenic Museum, and features the Neolea Hellenic Dancers and the Ellas Dancers of Chicago among others.
India, May 17-20
What’s the bhangra, you ask? Find out, and enjoy a variety of participatory music and dance demonstrations during a celebration of India’s vibrant culture. In addition to the music and dance offerings, visitors can practice henna decorating, turban tying and play a variety of traditional Indian games.
The event is being offered in partnership with the Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago, and features the Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts and cuisine from Arya Bhavan.
Nigeria, May 24-27
The final stop in the museum’s musical journey takes celebrates Western Africa and the continent’s most populous state, Nigeria. Children and families will become immersed in Nigerian tradition, experiencing a talking drum presentation, tambourine making, a Nigerian art gallery, necklace making, and numerous traditional music, dance and vocal performances.
Participants include Ugochi Nwaogwugwu, Unan Imports, Igi Nla-Contemporary African Percussion, Olusola Ajayi Fashions, Isaiah the Drummer and Family and several others.
World Music May begins May 1 and runs through May 31. For more information on specific dates and times, check out the museum’s calendar.
