The Watts Towers Arts Center Campus announced the lineup for its annual two-day entertainment extravaganza featuring jazz, drum-based music, poetry and dance from around the world.
On Saturday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the 42nd Annual Watts Towers Day of the Drum Festival will be held. On Sunday, Sept. 29, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the 47th Annual Simon Rodia Watts Towers Jazz Festival takes place. Both festivals are free and will be held at the Watts Towers Arts Center Campus, 1727 E. 107th Street, Los Angeles, CA
Presented by the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and produced by Rosie Lee Hooks, director and curator of the Watts Towers Arts Center Campus, the Day of the Drum Festival on Saturday features drum-based music, poetry and dance from around the world.
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Performers include Danza Azteca Xochipilli, Hemant Kulkarni accompanied by Makheer Singh on Dilruba, African Peruvian Experience, TAIKOPROJECT, and IGABA. Also on stage will be the Jaz Sawyer Drum Summit teaming with two young percussionists Emi Desiré and Aisha Gaillard and Leon Mobley – Da Lion presenting traditional African American drum music.
The Jazz Festival features a lineup of internationally acclaimed musicians including Alaadun, R&B artist Kevin Flournoy, Italian jazz by The Jasmine Tommaso Group, Delta-Chicago Jazz by Kirk Andrés Wilson, Tai Chi Chuan, community musician and artist Nedra Wheeler & Friends, and Munyungo’s Jungle Jazz.
“This year’s lineup reflects a very dynamic and eclectic combination of next generation jazz musicians who reflect the diverse tapestry of jazz and its genres” said Hooks.
“It’s a celebration of drums, jazz and cultures that offers an opportunity for families to enjoy and create lasting memories. We always make these annual festivals truly memorable. More musicians and visual artists have come from Watts than any other similar community in Southern California.”
Both Festivals feature children’s workshops, tours of the Noah Purifoy & Charles Mingus galleries, universal drum circle, craft stalls, vendors and a food court offering a variety of cuisines.
“These family-friendly events blend traditional and contemporary jazz and multicultural percussions, offering a delightful outing for music and rhythm enthusiasts of all ages,” added Hooks.
For more information, visit wattstowers.org/events.