The WatotoAcademy of Performing Arts to Embrace the Harlem Renaissance

November 5, 2019

This January, the WatotoAcademy of Performing Arts will perform the next installation of the “Love America…Love Everybody” concert series: The Joint is Jumpin.

The performance will focus on the Harlem Renaissance period that spanned Harlem, New York during the 1920s. The performance will also be based on a curriculum carefully designed by program Director and Founder, Donald O’Conner. This year’s curriculum combines the jazz sound with jazz and swing dance movement themes with an intentional dive into the historical significance of this exciting time in African American history.

The curriculum and lessons are also designed to revolve around a keyword. This year’s word is migration. O’ Conner chose this word to teach students how important the theme of migration is across multiple subjects. Students started by learning about why animals migrate and are currently learning why people migrate, particularly why African Americans decided to migrate North to Harlem in the 1920s. O’ Conner emphasizes that this migration was prompted by a desire for a greater quality of life and enhanced educational opportunities, which caused Harlem to become an epicenter for many members of the African American community from diverse backgrounds to come together.

The Harlem Renaissance marks a time of great success for academic enhancement in African American history and according to O’ Conner, that’s what makes this time so special. It is a time to celebrate and an opportunity for students to gain a deeper understanding and knowledge of their own history.

We invite students, families, and members of the Charleston community to experience this exciting time in history and learn alongside our students on January 9 and 10 at Dock Street Theatre. The performances will run two nights and are free and open to the public.

Interested in tickets? Reserve tickets for the Thursday, January 09 performance here. Reserve tickets for the Friday, January 10 performance here.

 

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About Meeting Street Schools

Meeting Street Schools (MSS) is an innovative non-profit where schools, families, and the community collaborate to create environments where all children can achieve their full potential. With a network of schools across South Carolina, including MSA-Charleston (Charleston, SC), MSA-Spartanburg (Spartanburg, SC), MS-Brentwood (North Charleston, SC), MS-Burns (North Charleston, SC), we are committed to providing students with the rigorous education they deserve.

Founded on the principle that every child deserves an excellent education regardless of their socio-economic background, Meeting Street Schools has been a beacon of hope and a testament to what's possible in education. Our schools are driven by a strong focus on student achievement, evidence-based instruction, and relentless support of our students and their families.

While united by our shared mission, each MSS campus, is unique in its character, tapping into the local spirit of the communities they serve. Explore each of our schools and discover how they're creating a brighter future for students in South Carolina.

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Meeting Street Academy – CharlestonDowntown Charleston, SC - Independent School - Since 2008 - 364 Students

Nestled in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, MSA Charleston is more than just a school—it’s a hub for innovative learning and community engagement. As part of the Meeting Street Schools network, MSA Charleston embodies a commitment to excellence through its rigorous academic programs, inclusive culture, and focus on developing the whole child. With a curriculum that emphasizes both academic and personal growth, MSA Charleston prepares students to be curious learners and active citizens of their community.

Meeting Street Academy – SpartanburgDowntown Spartanburg, SC - Public Charter School - Since 2012 - 323 Students

Meeting Street Academy – Spartanburg is as a pillar of educational innovation in the Spartanburg community. The school’s dedicated educators and supportive learning environment ensure that each child receives a high-quality, personalized education with exceptional faculty and teachers. The Academy is distinguished by its emphasis on community partnership, fostering relationships that extend beyond the classroom to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Meeting Street – BrentwoodNorth Charleston, SC - Public School - Since 2014 - 850 Students

Meeting Street – Brentwood is a place where education meets opportunity. Serving the Brentwood area, this neighborhood Public School of Innovation is a testament to the transformative power of education. With a student-centered approach that celebrates diversity and encourages excellence, Meeting Street – Brentwood is dedicated to equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century. Meeting Street – Brentwood also serves as a hub for the Brentwood community to access educational and wellness services. The school’s commitment to innovation, coupled with a warm, welcoming environment, makes it a standout in the Meeting Street Schools network.

Meeting Street – BurnsNorth Charleston, SC - Public School - Since 2018 - 478 Students

Located in a community rich with history and culture, Meeting Street – Burns is renowned for its dynamic educational approach that intertwines traditional learning with modern teaching techniques. The school’s focus on experiential learning ensures that students at Meeting Street – Burns are not only recipients of knowledge but also active participants in their educational journey. The school exists to spark an educational revolution for the students and families in the Dorchester-Waylyn Neighborhood in North Charleston. With a commitment to creating a supportive and challenging academic environment, Meeting Street – Burns is forging a new path in public education.

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