Bravo, Bravissimo to WorldFest Entertainers
Thanks to the wonderful participation of this year’s entertainers, everyone who attended WorldFest had the opportunity to “travel the world” through music, dance, and physical expression. Ten different groups contributed their time and talents with our community, bringing with them and sharing a sample of what their cultures represent.
Laughing Pizza kicked off the afternoon, representing the United States with their energetic music. Atlanta Budokan allowed us to appreciate martial arts forms from Japan, which go beyond self-defense techniques but are more a way of life. La Payasita Caramelito took us to Latin America and interacted with the children in English and Spanish. Our very own AIS students were a part of the Applause for Kids presentation of Annie, demonstrating that you are never too young to be a star. Thanks to the Natyanjali dance group, we were able to travel not only to a distant land but also to go back in time through the dazzling performance of several choreographies, originally from India, that date back more than 2,000 years. Imperatori Karate Center joined us with their impressive karate demonstration which also featured several AIS students and parents. Later, many were heard to shout olé as the AIS flamenco dancers made their debut on stage tapping their heels and clapping alongside their instructors, Julie Galle Baggenstoss and Erica Shantzek. Luis Rognoni and his partner Christine delighted us with their Tango presentation representing Argentina. When the audience was invited to participate, AIS parent Patricia Janiot joined Luis on stage and put on quite a performance. We were very grateful to the Brazilian Capoeira group who drove back that same day from a performance in Sarasota, FL, just to make it on time and demonstrate the energy and coordination of this unique art form. Last but certainly not least, children and parents engaged in a bilingual puppet show which encouraged the audience to interact with the characters in Spanish. This show was a courtesy of Ñ Spanish Bookstore & School.
On behalf of the entire AIS community, I express our gratitude to all of the above groups who so generously donated their time and energy and made our afternoon all that more enjoyable. Also thank you to AIS parents Ayesha Siraj, Silvina Schapira, Nadia Seidler and Kellie Dominguez, who put us in contact with some of these groups. All I can say is: ENCORE, ENCORE!
Anyone interested in obtaining more information about any of these entertainers, please e-mail Begoña Cintrón at begolatica@yahoo.com, who will gladly provide contact information.