Kid Review of Drumfolk by Step Afrika!
Now playing at New Victory Theater!
by Waverly Winchester
Waverly here! It’s always fun to check out what New Victory Theater has going on. As always, even before the show there are fun activities related to what you’re about to see. This time, I went into a drum circle and guessed who was starting the beat. I also started the beat once, too! I learned about culture and different instruments. This was the perfect way to get me ready to see Drumfolk! I did not know about the time when Africans lost the right to lose their drums, and this was a very exciting and inspiring way to learn all about how even when people take things away from you, you don’t have to let them win.
From the name of the show, I thought it would be just drums, but it was actually mostly dancing! That was probably to show how even though their drums were taken away, they did not take their beat! They used their bodies to stomp, clap, and make some awesome beats together and individually! They were all soooo talented and really found a unique way to tell their story. During some parts you could feel the fear they must have felt and during others you could feel excited and join in on the celebration! Lots of jumps, splits, and kicks along with amazing costumes left me mesmerized.
Watching this show made me feel excited and “cultural” – like I was watching something very important and also learning about something I never knew about. I really loved the ending but of course I won’t spoil it!
Kids should go see Drumfolk because it’s fun and unique and it teaches them about culture and history with music, dancing, and singing….and of course, some amazing beats!
So, go “gather round the drum and listen” … and be inspired!
The show has a running time of approximately 95 minutes, with one intermission.
Drumfolk is inspired by the Stono Rebellion of 1739, an uprising of 20 enslaved Africans from Angola who used their drums to start a revolt. This event sparked the Negro Act of 1740, which prohibited, among many other rights, the Africans’ use of drums. In conveying the context of these historical events, this production features a few intense thematic moments.
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