‘Beats of History' traces rhythm's path, from Africa to ragtime to rap

Newburgh — SUNY Orange’s Center for Youth Development and the City of Newburgh will unite to present an original performance entitled “BEATS of History: A Multi-Cultural Song” on Saturday, Feb. 24, with all proceeds to benefit the center, which oversees the Liberty Partnership Program among its many programs. “Beats of History” is a music, dance and spoken word event tracing the beats of rhythm throughout history, starting in Africa and evolving through the slave trade and into early 20th-century ragtime, jazz, blues, doo-wop and Motown, and continuing into current reggae, hip-hop, rap and other trends. The show, set for 7 p.m., will be held in Mount Saint Mary College’s Hudson Hall, 330 Powell Ave., Newburgh. Ticket prices are $20 for adults if purchased in advance, $25 for adults if purchased at the door; $30 for special VIP seating and reception; and $10 for students (with valid student ID) and senior citizens over age 65. Proceeds will support the activities of SUNY Orange’s Center for Youth Development, specifically funding trips to assist Newburgh high school students in visiting college campuses for their educational and academic advancement. The original script, which will bring together local musicians, dancers, spoken word poets and the students of CYD, was developed and written by Joaone Zipay, who will also direct the show. Her script development class held last semester through the College’s Center for Youth Development helped create ideas for the script. Local community and church leaders will be taking part in the show, reading the works of Langston Hughes and other African-American poets and writers. The program will also feature Neil Alexander, Jeri Baker and African Dancers, Bianca Chew, Chris Colas, Arreda Cotton, Tash-Be Cotton, Moustapha Diedhiou and African Drummers, Damon Finch, Torrance Harvey, Travis Hassel, The NFA Step Squad, Najah Scott, Natalie Torres and the Sensational Wonders. This program is made possible by support from the Newburgh Performing Arts Academy, Rootz International Restaurant, Solid S.T.E.P.S Recording and The Arts Alliance of the Lower Hudson Valley. The mission of The Center For Youth Development is to develop and implement systemic and supportive opportunities for youths to ensure their successful transition into postsecondary education and the workforce. The Center For Youth Development offers a myriad of programs and activities during the summer and academic year. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling CYD at 845-562-2469, or at the door on the day of performance.