Springstep to Welcome Hawaiian Artists to MA

Eddie Madril – RJ Muna. Courtesy photo.

Performances and Workshops Open to the Public

This April, Springstep will feature performances, workshops, a gallery exhibit, and a round-table discussion featuring native artists and performers from Hawaii and the mainland. Back for their third year, Hawaiian hula ensemble Halau ’o Keikiali’i brings dance, music, crafts, and culture to the community, emphasizing the rich New England-Hawaiian connection forged on 19th century trade routes between New England and China that stopped in Hawaii. During their stay, Halau ’o Keikiali’i will also be visiting local schools to teach youth about Hawaiian culture through music, dance, and stories.

Pascua Yaqui tribe member Edwardo Madril is a representative of Plains Indian culture and will present a variety of traditional dances, including the Grass Dance, Shawl Dance, and the mesmerizing Hoop Dance. Also taking part in performances and workshops at Springstep, Madril is available for school shows March 30 – April 1. School presentations are designed to introduce children of all ages to Native American culture and will bring songs, dances, stories, geography, traditions, and history to the classroom. For more information about booking Madril at a school, library, or university, contact afiske@springstep.org.

The mainstage performance will take place at Springstep on April 2 at 7pm. Tickets are now on sale at www.springstep.org.

This program has been funded in part by the New England Foundation for the Arts’ Expeditions Grant as well as the National Endowment for the Arts’ Challenge America Fast-Track Grant.

About Springstep:

Springstep, a 15,600 square foot award-winning arts and performance facility in the heart of Medford Square, opened its doors in 2003. Springstep hosts a diverse range of cultural events, classes, and social dances for youth and adults. The building includes an art gallery of rotating exhibits, and a wide range of studios, meeting rooms, and function spaces that are available for rent for private and nonprofit special events. Located at 98 George P. Hassett Drive, across from Medford City Hall, Springstep offers ample free parking and is accessible via public transportation.

For more information please call 781-395-0402, or visit the Springstep website at www.springstep.org.

– Information from Springstep