University Hosting Cross-Cultural Arts Festival

William Paterson University will hold its Cross-Cultural Arts Festival “Africa and the African Diaspora” from Wednesday, March 23, through Friday, April 8.

The mission or the festrival is to "encourage diversity, community, outreach and multiculturalism" by featuring fine arts, music and film that "facilitate cross cultural empathy and develop global connections."

“We’re really excited about this festival,” said Raymond Torres-Santos, dean of the University’s College of the Arts and Communication. “We wanted to find a way to unify our endeavors.”

Some events include:

• “United by Culture and Love: Africa and the African Diaspora.” Children can make traditional African tribal masks, mural paintings and tie-dye artwork. Where/When: Ben Shanan Center and Multipurpose Room, Student Center, Wednesday, March 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Music Performance/Choir Contest: William Paterson University Gospel Choir. Where/When: Shea Center for Performing Arts, Sunday, March 27 at 3 p.m.
• Theater Performances: “Crumbs from the Table of Joy.” Where/When: Hunziker Black Box Theater, 8 p.m. Thursday, March 31.
• Panel Discussion: “Doing Business in Africa.” Where/When: Valley Road Auditorium, Friday, April 1 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sherrie Ahlin directed the featured performance, “Crumbs from the Table of Joy,” a play by Lynn Nottage about a man who migrates from Florida to Brooklyn in the 1950s, when segregation was still common.

“There are a lot of historical references in the play,” Ahlin said. “At the same time, it’s very individual to his [the lead character's] experience. It touched on so much. It was very artistic.”

For additional information visit www.wpunj.edu/coac.