An Arsht Impact Program Heritage Fest 2025

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Dates

February 8, 2025 at 3:00 PM

Venue

Thomson Plaza for the Arts

Run Time

3 hours

Parental Guide

All ages

Price

$0 - $0

The annual Heritage Fest is an afternoon of free, fun-filled activities for the entire family. Enjoy performances by local artists, sample delicious food from a variety of vendors and jam to beats pumping onto the dance floor. This free community event was designed to spotlight, celebrate and amplify Pan-African artists in our community.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

3-6 p.m. Vendor Village

3:15-3:45 p.m. San Juan USA Afro-Venezuelan Drumming Workshop

3:30-4 p.m. Author Reading With Dr. Michael Woodward, Young Queen

4-4:30 p.m. Movement Ministry Dance Fitness Class With Shanna Woods

4:30-5 p.m. Author Reading With Dr. Michael Woodward, The Mighty Monarch Butterfly

4:45-5:15 p.m. MJ Dance Workshop with T.M. Pride

5:15-6 p.m. STOUT in Concert

Tickets

Saturday, February 8, 2025 3:00 PM
Available

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Artists

STOUT

Stout is a true Renaissance woman: a mother, artist, writer, dancer, producer and more. At the tender age of 3, she began her musical journey in New Haven, Connecticut. She went from playing the drums and singing in the choir to touring the world with artists such as Alicia Keys, Donald Glover (Childish Gambino) and Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles, to name a few. With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Stout has left an indelible mark on the music scene.

Her sound is deeply rooted in gospel and soul and blended with elements of jazz, rock, hip-hop and pop. Her performances have been taking the world by storm, with her unapologetic approach to musical art. She is powerful, electric and vulnerable.
Dr. Michael Woodward Jr.

Dr. Michael Woodward Jr. is a native of Miami and a graduate of Florida A&M University, the University of Nevada Las Vegas and Barry University. Recently, he earned his PhD in Education as he amassed 31 self-published works. His children’s novel, King Monte: Are You My P.E. Teacher?, tells the story of a talented Black child named Monte who struggles to find the right role models, conquer self-doubt and change not just his own life but the lives of the people he loves.

Woodward’s work is inspired by his experiences as an elementary school teacher working with low-income, Black and Brown students who struggled to find fiction in which they could see themselves. Woodward was one of the few Black male teachers. Witnessing the negative impact this had on his students, his passion to tell stories from the perspective of children of color was born.

King Monte: Are You My P.E. Teacher? is the first book from Woodward’s Inspire(d) Collection, which also includes King Monte: The Lost Tiger’s Eye, There's Something About Mommy, Father Father: An Ode to the Fatherless and Forever a Scholar. Woodward’s books are available for sale at MichaelWoodwardJr.com.
San Juan USA

San Juan USA, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Venezuelan cultural heritage, joins the Adrienne Arsht Center’s Heritage Fest with its commitment to spreading and celebrating the cultural diversity of Venezuela’s festivities and folk rhythms. Renowned for its work in safeguarding traditions and promoting artistic expressions, San Juan USA captivates audiences with exhibitions that combine education and entertainment in a vibrant and unforgettable format.

As part of the program, the group presents "Rhythms of Life: Afro-Venezuelan Percussion," a workshop that invites participants to explore the techniques and genres of Afro-Venezuelan music. This innovative experience uses everyday objects to create authentic sounds, seamlessly connecting tradition and innovation in a fun and energetic environment. It’s an opportunity to experience the richness of Venezuela’s cultural roots up close. Don’t miss it!
Shanna Woods

Shanna L Woods is the sweetest mango with a dash of ghost pepper. She is a dance artist, choreographer, rehearsal director, educator, mother and creator from Delray Beach by way of Memphis. She has performed nationally and internationally with Deeply Rooted Dance Theatre, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre, Jubilation Dance Ensemble and, currently, Olujimi Dance Theatre. Woods is the director of Dance at Boynton Beach Community High School. She is the first artist in residence at Bailey Contemporary Arts Center in Pompano Beach, specializing in dance and dance healing arts. The founder of The Art of Acceptance Workshop: Healing Through Dance Movement and Meditation and Lavish Lovin Soul Care Solutions, Woods is certified in KAY Yoga and Smai Tawi Egyptian Yoga. She is interested in building a legacy of innovative, proactive and holistic healing through dance and self-care specifically for women and young ladies.
T.M. Pride

Award-winning teaching artist T.M. Pride leads a fun and exhilarating jazz class for beginners! This workshop features an accessible, high-energy jazz combination inspired by the legendary moves of Michael Jackson and the electrifying choreography of Broadway musical MJ. With Broadway-style music setting the tone, participants will explore the fundamentals of jazz dance while paying tribute to the King of Pop. The session focuses on performance skills such as audience connection, confidence and expressive facial techniques, ensuring a memorable experience for all. Whether you're a first-time mover or looking to channel your inner star, this class promises to leave you feeling inspired and energized!