The second-ever LRM Foundation Juneteenth celebration at the Lied Center in 2023 was a huge success. The LRM Theatre grouop welcomed local dance performance groups to help celebrate the important moment and tell history in the process. The Esoke Cultural Arts Center gave a riveting drum and dance presentation during “Freedom Has A Voice: Dance Narratives.” The Esoke Cultural Arts Center is a performing arts organization dedicated to preserving the cultural of West Africa through performances and workshops. Through dance and drum, instructors improve cultural awareness and self-esteem of children and adults of the village. Under the leadership of Artistic Director, Yaminah Muhammad and Musical Director, Quarieb Muhammad, Esoke has been thrilling audiences for more than 30 years and has received a proclamation from the city of Kansas City, Missouri.
The performance also featured a trio of talented Kansas City area dancers who spanned the decades and genres with their heart-felt scenes. Azia Gambrell, Robert Vardiman, and Christen Hines performed everything from ballet, tap, jazz, to modern, hip hop.
How did audiences feel after witnessing “Freedom Has a Voice” at the Lied Center of Kansas? Don’t take our word for it. Watch reactions to our Juneteenth Celebration from audience members in their own words!
Want to watch the full performance? LRM Foundation is asking for your support! When you make a $25 (minimum) donation our organization, we will e-mail you a link to watch the full performance. Your donation will help LRM Foundation continue its mission to empower and restore lives through mental health workshops, educational programs, and theatrical programming like this.
Please make a donation HERE and select “LRM Theater” from the drop-down menu.
Thank you for your support!
Video by Matty D Media LLC/Eric Scherbarth
Matt DeSarle of Matty D. Media contributed to this article.
