Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation Announces It Was All a Dream 20th Anniversary Celebration

Brooklyn-based Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater, will be premiering their new original musical It Was All a Dream, in celebration of the Foundation’s 20th Anniversary on August 20, 2022 at 7 pm at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center. The event commemorates twenty years of dance, education, and services to local youth and Brooklyn community members.

It Was All a Dream is a moving story and dance drama inspired by the enduring challenges, unrelenting hope, faith and optimism that has fueled the growth of Asase Yaa. It has grown from its humble beginnings as a grass roots dance company to a sustainable multi-faceted foundation and cultural arts organization. The musical is designed to motivate and encourage young artists, families, and the community to always dream. And to realize with love, devotion and perseverance that it is possible to fulfill artistic and communal goals and dreams for the advancement of culture and community.

It Was All a Dream is directed and choreographed by Yao Ababio, Founder and Artistic Director, and executive produced by Kofi Osei Williams, Executive Director. The 90-minute performance showcases a cast of 30 dancers and drummers who take the audience through an electric and enlightening journey through indigenous African culture, dance, music, and songs.

“It is exciting and humbling to watch the passion, energy, and artistry of our Founder Yao Ababio and the way our team has continued to inspire greatness within our community over the past twenty years,” said Kofi Osei Williams. “We remain committed to the arts and our culture, and to present it at the highest level possible in everything we do as a thriving foundation…”

The Dance Theater has announced the popular West African Farafina Kan Dance Company has been added to the bill as their special guests. Farafina Kan, means “The Sound of Africa,” and is a professional West African Percussion Orchestra and dance troupe dedicated to maintaining the history and integrity of traditional Manding African music and dance. The performing ensemble was founded in 2004 by Mahiri F. Keita and is now under the direction of Mahiri’s son and nephew; Agyei Keita, and Kweku Sumbry, respectively. Farafina Kan celebrates its tenth anniversary this year.

Tickets for It Was All a Dream are available on various tiers, including general admission ($30, $40, $50) and premium gold ($100, $300), which includes a VIP post-show reception and swag bag. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here or call (646) 468-0710.