Join the Brooklyn United Drum and Dance Troupe for their limited time, off-Broadway debut on June 8th, 9th and 10th – BROOKLYN UNITED LIVE. This dynamic, engaging production will feature performers ages 5 to 17 from across the borough who have been working hard to prepare for this unique expression of music, dance, community and camaraderie.
Brooklyn United kids come from numerous Brooklyn neighborhoods, with over 100 participants from Bed-Stuy alone. Students learn to read music and to march, of course, but they also learn life skills. The BU mission states clearly the wider vision as “the development of youth through Academic Support, Character Development, Skills Building and Performance Opportunities. It is through these pillars that we strive to build strong, well rounded, healthy, confident and capable young people.”
Ty Brown has been running programs in Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights for over 20 years, and described the myriad ways in which the program has impacted young participants. “BU has effected students in every area of their lives. Academically they show great growth, emotionally they are more confident and outspoken, and their relationships with their parents are stronger. BU students become amazing leaders and go on to lead any industry they enter.”
Next week these young leaders will have the opportunity to showcase their skills on a new stage, and we will be fortunate to partake in the joy and growth that comes from working together as a community to create a singular work of art. Brown’s message is clear and rings from every cymbal crash and bass drum beat, “[We can all] be better each day,” he said, “Wake up with gratitude every day for our ability to beat this game of life!”
Tickets are available at www.lamama.org. Performances will take place June 8th to the 10th, 2018 at La Mama (66 East 4th Street). (June 8th at 8pm, June 9th and 10th at 3pm.)
Check out this video to learn more about the incredible kids of Brooklyn United, or watch this video to see and hear them at the Kosciuszko Bridge Opening Ceremony.
The Bed Stuy Blog 