Somali Artists Teach Local Students African Culture

Gobey Hassan, a member of Ilays, a multicultural group of artists from Somalia, dances with Granville High School students Elle VanWalsen, 18, center, and Claire Parsons, 15, on Monday morning at Granville High School.

By LIZA MARTIN

GRANVILL, October 31, 2006E -- It was a learning experience delivered from around the world.

Ilays, a group of Somali multicultural artists, shared native songs, dances and dress with the students of Granville High School and Granville Middle School on Monday. It was part of the Midwest World Fest, a cultural concert series that aims to foster an understanding of and appreciation for global uniqueness and differences.

"I thought it was really cool," said Ross Lemmon, a 16-year old Granville High School junior. "It's important for us to get a piece of other cultures." Ilays, which means "light" in English, is a 7-member group comprised of writers, dancers, actors, singers and instrumental musicians. Using an energetic mix of vibrant music, dance, poetry and stories, the group seeks to educate American students on the Somali culture, said member Ali Kusow, who plays the oud, a traditional Middle-Eastern lute.

"We are, in a sense, a peaceful society," he told the crowd of students. "May peace be upon all of us, the human race."

Ilays, along with ensembles from the Middle East, Japan and Mexico, conduct week-long residencies consisting of public concerts, school concerts, and outreach activities in 10 Midwestern communities. The 2005-06 World Fest, a program of Arts Midwest, is sponsored locally by The Midland Theatre.

"We're very excited this year ... because the Midland has been recognized as the headquarters for Midwest World Fest," said Connie Hawk with the Midland.

Employing the sounds of an oud, a tambourine, African drums and other African instruments, Ilays performed in their native language songs about peace, unity and communication, with Kusow explaining to students beforehand what the songs meant in English.

Then, dancers wrapped student volunteers in colorful robes and headdresses and taught them traditional Somali dance.

"I liked it. I think it's interesting to learn about other cultures," said Claire Parson, a 15-year old Granville High School freshman who learned lively dances such as the Bolo and Selicey.

"It's really good to hear about other cultures," said 16-year old Paul Peterson, a junior at Granville High School. "I really liked the drums, the dancing and the clothing."

Liza Martin can be reached at (740) 328-8544 or Lmmartin@newarkadvocate.com.

Source: Newarkadvocate, Oct. 31, 2006

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