NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA AND DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL
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Georgian College and the Orillia and District Arts Council (ODAC) invite Orillia area residents to join them on Oct. 15 during the nationwide Culture Days for a free musical event.
Registration is open.
“We’re excited to invite the community into Georgian’s Orillia campus to celebrate and showcase creative expressions of culture,” said Dr. Mary Louise Noce, dean, Georgian College Orillia campus.
Babarinde Williams from Drums et al will bring diverse and interactive entertainment to Georgian’s Orillia campus.
“Drums et al applies the art of music, dance, and drumming as a vehicle for character development, leadership, and mental well-being,” said Williams. “We combine electric rhythms and high-energy dances of West Africa to create an unbeatable interactive audience experience.”
Dennis Rizzo, co-chair of ODAC, says the council is committed to growing cultural diversity in the region.
“By bringing together various cultures and concepts, ODAC seeks to open our collective concept of what constitutes art and provide diverse experiences for our community,” he said.
Six 20-minute drumming sessions will take place between 1 and 3:30 p.m. Community members can join in this experience by registering for free tickets at Georgian ODAC Culture Days event.
There is no admission charge, drums are supplied, and free parking will be provided on campus; however, pre-registration is required due to limited space. Donations to support the work of ODAC are gratefully accepted.
Following the drumming sessions, attendees are invited to visit the Debwewin miinwaa Naaskodaadiwin Miikaans/Truth and Reconciliation Trail behind the campus. Flanked by stones hand-painted in a vivid orange, the forested path is a striking visual reminder of the ongoing journey toward truth and reconciliation.
Participants will also have the opportunity to experience other various cultural activities, and can leave their mark by participating in creative arts projects that will be permanently displayed on the campus.
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