Celebrating 25 Years of African Heritage: The Rhythms & Movements Festival
Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation is ushering in its 25th anniversary year with an electrifying celebration—the Rhythms & Movements Festival. Running from February 20 to 28, 2026, this dynamic event marks a vibrant recognition of Black History Month and serves as an exploration of African American culture and the arts in Brooklyn.
A Multidimensional Celebration
The Rhythms & Movements Festival spans nine full days, taking place across three prominent venues: BRIC Ballroom, the Billie Holiday Theater, and The Theater at City Tech. The festival’s programming is rich with diversity, featuring nine unique events that appeal to audiences of all ages. Attendees can look forward to three evening performances crafted for adult audiences and six daytime shows designed specifically for children and young families.
Spotlight on Cultural Traditions
At the heart of the festival is a commitment to honoring African American cultural traditions. A key highlight is the revival of The Revival: DJEMBE IN THE NEW MILLENNIUM, performed by the Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater. This performance is particularly significant as it represents the company’s first major tour since 2017, aiming to reach at least 15 cities nationwide throughout the year.
K. Osei Williams, Asase Yaa’s Executive Director, expressed excitement for the festival. “We’re honored to present our third Annual Rhythms & Movements Festival as part of our 25th Anniversary celebration in 2026-27. This is our most adventurous festival yet,” he stated, encapsulating the foundation’s aspiration to extend its cultural legacy.
Thematic Significance
This anniversary season carries the poignant theme “We Strive to Thrive,” which aligns with Asase Yaa’s mission to uplift cultural heritage, expand creative possibilities, and inspire younger generations through the arts. The festival serves not only as a celebration but also as a platform for education and inspiration, nurturing a deeper appreciation for African American contributions to art and society.
Festival Highlights
February 20 – AN ARTIVIST EXPERIENCE, BRIC Ballroom
Kicking off the festival, the opening concert features a powerful ensemble of musicians and artivists including percussionist Kweku Sumbry, saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins, and vibraphonist Joel Ross. This not-to-be-missed evening culminates in a discussion led by Chief Ayanda Clarke, exploring the intricate connections between music and activism.
Showtime: 7:30 PM
THE LOVE PARTY, BRIC Ballroom
Following the opening concert, guests are invited to THE LOVE PARTY, a lively dance celebration hosted by DJ Spinna. This afterparty emphasizes community, joy, and artistic expression, inviting attendees to engage in a vibrant celebration of culture and creativity.
Showtime: 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
February 25-27 – THE MAD SCIENTIST, Billie Holiday Theater
This original youth-centered play follows the thrilling journey of a young scientist through time. Meeting trailblazing Black innovators like Mae Jemison and George Washington Carver, the play aims to enrich students’ understanding of African and African American ingenuity through theater, music, and dance.
Showtimes: 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM, daily
February 28 – The Revival: DJEMBE IN THE NEW MILLENNIUM, The Theater at City Tech
The festival culminates with a spectacular performance tracing the influence of West African cultural traditions on the artistic landscape of Bed-Stuy in the 1990s. This newly expanded showcase features six dancers and four djembe drummers, along with new music and multimedia elements, promising to captivate the audience.
Showtime: 7:30 PM
Get Involved
For those interested in supporting this landmark celebration and learning more about the 25th anniversary season, additional details can be found on the Asase Yaa website or by following their social media channels at @AsaseYaaCulturalArtsFoundation. This festival is more than just an event—it’s a movement that seeks to elevate the narratives and traditions of African American culture through the transformative power of the arts.
