February 9, 3:00pm Kiazi Malonga and Mbanza Kongo - Congo Māhealani Uchiyama and Hālau Ka Ua Tuahine - Polynesia Nilan Chaudhuri and Jonathan Kay - India TRIÓTRO: John Santos, David Flores & Christelle Durandy - US Vinic-Kay (La Gente y el Canto) - Mexico
February 16, 3:00pm African Music and Dance Ensemble - Ghana Del Mar Flamenco - Spain Jackeline Rago & Venezuela 360º - Venezuela Omi Ashé - Cuba San Francisco Awakko Ren - Japan
To celebrate the union of music and dance that is inherent in the colorful, global expression of world and ethnic performance art traditions, World Arts West (WAW) is honored and excited to present its new two-weekend program, Polyphonia, Music of the World. The February 2020 performances at the newly renovated Presidio Theatre feature memorable and diverse world class musicians from more than 10 countries, including multi-Grammy nominee, Afro-Latin musician John Santos. As producer and presenter of the renowned San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival, WAW has always been a foundation of outstanding talent of both dancers and musicians. Through Polyphonia, WAW casts the spotlight on the incredible musicians who have shared the stage with dancers over the course of the 40 years of the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival. Come and experience the resonating, international sound vibrations in a program that celebrates live music, including exciting cultural crossovers. Please note each weekend features a different program with different artists.
About World Arts West: World Arts West is a San Francisco-based, non-profit organization that supports over 450 Bay Area dance companies that celebrate and sustain the world's artistic and cultural legacy. Its work includes producing and presenting the annual San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival, hailed by The New York Times as "a glorious achievement” and “one of the finest of all American dreams: a setting where cultures can celebrate their own traditions while honoring and applauding others."
Having worked with artists throughout the Bay Area's diverse communities for more than 40 years, World Arts West is recognized as a pioneer for creating an unparalleled epicenter for dance and music from over 100 unique world cultures. Its leadership has resulted in establishing the most vibrant artistic and culturally rich community in the world.
In 2020, World Arts West expands its programming with a new program Polyphonia, Music of the World, showcasing talented musicians that have performed as part of its past Festivals.
For more information, visit worldartswest.org