Wyandanch Union Free School District

Second-grade classes at Wyandanch’s Lafrancis Hardiman Elementary School continued a successful partnership with the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in Brookville, exploring African dance, music and drumming and how these art forms are historically intertwined with Hispanic culture and traditions. Through the collaboration, students examined shared cultural influences that connect rhythm, movement and storytelling across both cultures. 

As part of this collaboration, LFH second graders attended a live performance by the Kotchegna African Dance Company at the Tilles Center on Jan. 28. Students were also given the unique opportunity to participate in a special performance of their own, taking the stage at the conclusion of the show to present an African dance in full costume, a meaningful and memorable experience for all involved.