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Photo by Lawrence Sumulong

Curated, conceptualized, and executed by Carl Hancock Rux, this year's fifth annual Juneteenth celebration at Lincoln Center draws inspiration from the rich traditions of African and African-American folklore. The event explores themes of cultural identity, societal norms, and significant historical events through the lens of African folklore, which often tells stories of resilience and the unyielding human spirit in the face of slavery's challenges. Key figures in these narratives include Anansi the spider, Br'er Rabbit, Uncle Junus, Uncle Monday, High John the Conqueror, and Sankofa, a mythical bird depicted with an egg in its beak, facing forward with its feet while looking back. This imagery represents the importance of preserving collective memory as a source of cultural identity that transcends both time and place. The influence of African folklore on modern storytelling is significant, with its lasting themes, archetypes, and moral lessons inspiring countless writers, artists, and scholars over the centuries. The Oh Sankofa! celebration at Lincoln Center honors this rich legacy, engaging the audience through music, choral performances, dance, animal tales, slave narratives, and educational fables that celebrate a rich cultural heritage and pay tribute to human endurance in the face of adversity and hardship. Featured artists include actress/comedian Phyllis Stickney; multimedia artist Vinson Fraley; dancer and Urban Bush Women Co-Artistic Director Chanon Judson; blue jazz guitarist Marvin Sewell; and the Etienne Lashley choir.

 

 

Artist Statement by Carl Hancock Rux

Venue
Hearst Plaza
30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023

For ticketing, call CenterCharge at 212-721-6500 from Monday–Saturday 10:00 am–8:00 pm and Sunday noon–6:00 pm.

For general inquiries, call Guest Experience at 212-875-5456 or email [email protected].

Hearst Plaza immerses you in natural and artistic beauty, setting the scene for something magical. Enjoy the shade under the trees of Barclays Capital Grove and the peacefulness of the Paul Milstein Reflecting Pool.

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