THE ROOTS OF ENGLISH BLACK ARTS &
CULTURE

ABOUT THIS PROGRAM

The Roots of English Black Arts & Culture" is a transformative initiative by Playmas Montreal Cultural Association, dedicated to preserving and celebrating the diverse traditions within the English Black community in the Montreal region. Running from October 2024 to March 2025, this program is designed to engage Black English individuals aged 16 to 70 in a series of hands-on workshops, aiming to ensure that our rich cultural heritage is cherished, understood, and passed down through generations.By participating in this program, you will have the opportunity to learn, create, and share in a community-driven effort that highlights the significant contributions of Black individuals to artistic, literary, and musical landscapes globally. Join us in preserving our heritage and celebrating our unique cultural expressions!

MISSION

Our mission is to actively engage the English Black community in the Montreal region by providing educational and creative platforms that preserve and celebrate our rich cultural heritage. We aim to foster a sense of cultural continuity, ensuring that our traditions, stories, and customs are not lost but cherished and passed down through generations. By highlighting the achievements and contributions of Black individuals, we strive to create a more inclusive and historically aware community.

OUR WORKSHOPS

A GRIOT NIGHT (7 WEEKS)

Featuring Roen Higgins, Kym Dominique- Ferguson & other poetry experts as Workshop Facilitators. In addition, veteran Calypsonian extraordinaire, Doggies, will demonstrate the historical roots of Calypso.

Griot Night Workshop Dates:
October 20th - November 30th, 2024

Only the first workshop (Oct.20th) is virtual. The remaining workshops require physical attendance.

Duration: 7 weeks, 1 workshop per week (3 hours each)

Overview: Griot Night is a storytelling workshop that delves into the rich oral traditions of the Black community. Participants will learn and explore the art of griots—traditional African storytellers—and then move over to creative expressions through calypso and poetry, drawing from the influence of their histories. They will use this to develop their skills in crafting stories and sharing  their own personal and historical narratives. This workshop will foster a deeper understanding of our roots through storytelling, poetry, and spoken word.

NOTE-
This workshop will not teach individuals to be Griots but to respect the origins and genesis of many modern day modes of storytelling.  

What You’ll Learn:
1.Techniques in storytelling and oral history.
2.How to create compelling narratives.
3.The importance of preserving stories for future generations.

Featuring Workshop facilitators from and individuals with expertise in beading, carnival headpiece design and quilting.

CRAFTING CONNECTIONS (7 WEEKS)

Crafting Connections Workshop Dates:
December 7th, 2024 - February 1st, 2025

All workshops dates require physical attendance.

Duration: 7 weeks, 1 workshop per week (3 hours each)

Overview: Crafting Connections focuses on the tangible aspects of cultural expression through arts and crafts. Participants will learn to create various pieces that reflect their cultural heritage, such as traditional Caribbean crafts, beadwork, carnival headdresses, quilting and more. This workshop encourages creativity and cultural expression through hands-on activities that connect us with our roots.

What You’ll Learn:
1.Techniques in traditional arts and crafts
2.The cultural significance behind various crafts
3.How to express personal identity and cultural heritage through art

REGISTER NOW

We've received an overwhelming response for the two workshops, and we're thrilled by the interest! By registering now, you'll be added to our waiting list for the next available spots. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Thank you for your enthusiasm, and we look forward to welcoming you soon

Fill out the form to join our waiting list.

What is the deadline to register?

The deadline to register is October 12th!

Is there a cost to attend?

No, it's completely free. Register today!

Does the workshop require physical attendance?

Yes! This workshop is hands-on and will require your physical attendance.

playmasrootsprogram@gmail.com

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