Katy, Texas (June 30, 2008) A community partnership Between The Cinco Ranch Property Association, LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch and ARTreach is bringing a special cultural arts series to Cinco Ranch this summer that includes storytellers, puppeteers, musicians and dancers.  The performances are being held on the third and fourth Saturdays in June, July and August at 10:30 a.m. at Simply Cinco and Heritage Square located in LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. 

“We’re thrilled to offer this type of quality series to Cinco Ranch residents, as well as residents in the greater Katy area. With the common goal of community enrichment, the partnership between Cinco Ranch, LaCenterra and ARTreach came naturally” says Lori Curtis, Newland Communities Special Events Coordinator. 

Storytellers, puppeteers, musicians and dancers

The summer series kicked off on June 21st with children and families welcoming Dan Gordon as Dante, Teller of Tales at Simply Cinco in LaCenterra. Dan is professional storyteller from Young Audiences of Houston. He took the audience on an exciting and interactive voyage to the Land of Stories.  Dante recounted stirring tales which taught lessons in understanding the differences in people and finding good in all.  The audience was encouraged to participate in the tales with movement and voice.  By the end of the adventure, everyone began to feel as if they had become storytellers themselves.

The beat of the African drum

On June 28, Drummer Joseph Dixon arrived to perform his “Village without Music” in the Heritage Square. This presentation explored the impact music has had on Africans and Americans of African descent throughout history.  Audience members were invited to take part in a drum circle and learn of “Congo Square” in New Orleans, where traditional African rhythms and elements of modern jazz fuse together.  Dixon’s presentation also explored the impact the Black Arts Movement (BAM) of the 1960’s and 1970’s had on society at the time and its present influences, including today’s hip-hop culture.

More to come!

Jean Kuecher- Rumplestiltskin
Jean Kuecher brings the art of puppetry to Simply Cinco July 19 with the tale of “Rumplestiltskin.”  This classic is performed featuring delicately hand-crafted marionettes in sparkling costumes on an elaborate stage complete with lighting, scenery and curtains.  Master puppeteer, Kuecher will reveal special effects and backstage secrets immediately following the performance.  For information on Jean Kuecher and the Marionette Playhouse, visit www.marionetteplayhouse.com.
 

Dance of Asia
East meets west with “Dance of Asia” presented by Dance of Asian America July 26 in Heritage Square. The vast land of China consists of the Mainland and 56 ethnic sub-regions each with dance forms that directly reflect their individual lifestyle and customs.  Classical and folk dance offer insight into the traditions, history and culture of each region.  Dances performed include authentic Chinese costumes, music and detailed information intended to offer guests a better understanding of China’s rich cultural heritage.  Learn more about Dance of Asian America, log onto www.danceaa.org.

JAWAD

Summer Saturdays continue with jazz musician JAWAD presenting “The Roots of American Music” August 16 in Simply Cinco.  This Young Audiences offering focuses on the artistic and historical contribution Jazz artists Paul Robeson, Robert Johnson and Duke Ellington have made to American music. This musical lesson is sure to enlighten and entertain.  To learn more about Young Audiences Houston, visit www.yahouston.org.   For information and a sneak preview of JAWAD’s music, log onto www.jawadmusic.com.
URGEWORKS

The series ends in Heritage Square with the high-energy dance of URGEWORKS! Presenting “Be You!” August 23. Guests of all ages will be amazed by these professional hip-hop dancers from Houston.  Internationally renowned for their positive, inspirational and motivational performances, URGEWORKS! will ensure the series ends on a high note.  Visit www.urgeworks.com  to find out more about this talented group of performers.

ARTreach events like these are designed to increase awareness and appreciation of the arts within the community.  Visit www.artreachonline.org to learn more. LaCenterra, Katy’s premier place to shop and play, is located at 23501 Cinco Ranch  Boulevard at Grand Parkway in Katy, Texas.  For information including center hours, upcoming events and directions, please visit www.lacenterra.com.  Information on Cinco Ranch and Newland Communities can be found at www.newlandcommunities.com