Zuzu African Acrobats highlight PennWest's Black History Month events

California, PA (01/26/2024) — All three main campuses of Pennsylvania Western University will host the Zuzu African Acrobats as part of PennWest's Black History Month activities,

The Zuzu Acrobats are a Tanzanian troupe who base their performances on 2000 years of history. They bring modern art, culture, and passion with them everywhere they go. Zuzu celebrates their culture of Dar Es Salaam through jaw dropping acrobatics, live music, singing, dancing, and more. The troupe's performance exhibit gravity defying stunts while simultaneously displaying the beauty of the Tanzanian culture of East Africa. This interactive 90-minute show includes human pyramids, dish spinning, stick balance, contortion, chair balance, unicycling, juggling, hand to hand balance, pole acts, hoop diving, as well as comedy and more.

PennWest will host the Zuzu Acrobats 6 p.m. Feb. 19 at PennWest California's Natali Performance Center; 6 p.m. Feb. 20 at PennWest Clarion's Gemmel MPR, and 6 p.m. Feb. 21 at PennWest Edinboro's Cole Memorial Auditorium.

This year's Black History Month theme highlights the importance of African Americans and allies coming together as a collective force. It recognizes that when we stand united, we have the power to create positive change, overcome adversity, and build a better future for all. By embracing our shared history and supporting one another, we can harness the strength of our community to uplift and empower each other.

Events include:

• "Preparing for The Moment(s)!" 6 p.m. Feb. 1 via Zoom.

Inspired by a culmination of profound messages from speeches and sermons of the Martin Luther King, Jr., Dr. Anthony Kane will lead a thought-provoking conversation calling us to recognize and prepare for personal moments of action in pursuit of inclusive and equitable society. Dr. Kane, M'12, is an Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Saint Vincent College.

• "A Different World: Black Americans & Labor History." 10-11 a.m. Feb. 5, Feb. 7, and Feb. 9 in-person at the Natali Performance Center or online via Zoom.

A 3-part presentation/discussion reviewing the history of race relations among miners in West Virginia, particularly focusing on the worst industrial disaster in American history the Hawk's Nest Tunnel Disaster (1930-1931).The presentation will be hosted by PennWest assistant professor Dr. Codie Stone.

• "Frederick Douglass: Progress Through Struggle." Noon Feb. 14 via Zoom.

In honor of Frederick Douglass' birthday, which is celebrated on Feb. 14, log on to hear one of his renown speeches, "Progress Through Struggle," which message still holds true today. The discussion will be hosted by PennWest associate professor Dr. Joseph Croskey.

Media Attachments

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Submitted: A member of the Zuzu African Acrobat troupe performs a routine during their 90-minute act.