Press Release

Kevin Collins

Date:04.08.2010

COLDWATER, MI—

Kevin Collins and the Kuungana Drum and Dance Company are back by popular demand for one public performance only! Don’t miss this respected percussionist and his dance troupe who bring to the stage such passionate and participatory performances which enthrall theatre patrons.

Collins and the drum and dance company will perform for the general public one night only at 7pm, Friday, April 16, 2010 at the Tibbits Opera House.

Collins, also known as the Rhythmologist, brings with him an impressive collection of traditional percussion instruments from Africa, Cuba and the Caribbean. Children and adults will find his performances entertaining and educational as they learn what a “Djembe” is and get the opportunity to play it. His energy, enthusiasm, and sense of community are what drive him to share and teach his expertise to all who are interested.

Collins was recently awarded “Educator of the Year” by VSA arts  of Michigan which is a member of the international network of VSA arts, an affiliate of The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Kuungana is a dance company who share their love for African music through lively, engaging performances under the leadership of Collins. It is his desire to teach children about their rich heritage and improve their self-esteem through playing African drums and learning African dance steps. 

He formed the Kevin Collins Kuungana Drum and Dance Troupe in Flint which is now 50 members strong. The dance troupe and Collins, in their brightly colored native attire, perform continually throughout Michigan and the country.

In addition, Collins has presented many concerts and participated in arts education programs in Flint and throughout Michigan. Collins works with the Greater Flint Arts Council, Flint Community Schools, the Very Special Arts Program, Flint Cultural Center and conducts various workshops. Collins has also produced two CD’s and is currently in the studio creating a gospel CD.

Tibbits gratefully acknowledges Consumers Credit Union for sponsoring this event. Support also came from: Young Michigan Dances, Cultural Connections, 4-H and Michigan State University Extension and Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

Don’t forget to celebrate Cultural Connections at the Cultural Fair in the Tibbits Art Gallery at 6 pm, one hour before the performance.

 Tickets for this unique musical event are $9 for adults and $7 for students. They may be purchased by phone at 517-278-6029, by visiting the web site at www.Tibbits.org, or at the door.  Tibbits is located at 14 S. Hanchett St., Coldwater.