The Rainier Valley Culture Fest Weekend starts Saturday, August 18 with the Rainier Valley Heritage Parade and Summer Streets Party. Celebrating the most diverse zip code in the United States, this event begins with a parade at 11 a.m., followed by special performances at 1 p.m. by 98118’s Got Talent including Vietnamese American, Cambodian, American Samoa, Filipino and Japanese communities. At 2:15 p.m. a Hip Hop Zone launches with five amazing interactive workshops. Seattle community members are invited to learn about the culture of hip hop, how it has inspired a legacy of innovation, diversity, creativity and pioneering spirit—and give it a try for themselves. Below is the workshop schedule:
The History of Hip Hop Graffiti – host TBA
2:15 – 2:35 – Since its explosion onto city walls and subways in the 70s, the increasing popularity of Graffiti as an art form has won commercial success for its artists and a regular presence in Pop Culture and the Contemporary Art World.
The Art of Hip Hop Dance – hosted by Florentino “Flow” Francisco of the Massive Monkees
2:35 – 2:55 – Influenced by martial arts and gymnastics, Hip Hop dance includes a wide range of styles. Notably, breaking, popping and locking, which were made by popular by dance crews in the United States, became synonymous with Hip Hop dance.
The Art of Beat Boxing – hosted by Audiopoet of the 206 Zulu Nation
2:55 – 3:15 – When people hear the word beat boxing, what comes to mind is people making funny noises with their mouth. Well yes…beat boxing is making funny noises with your mouth, but arranging those funny noises into a beat or a pattern takes practice and skill.
The Art of MC’ing – hosted by E-Dawg, rap artist and radio show host
3:15 – 3:35 – MC’ing is the art of rapping. “MC” stands for master of ceremonies and that is what MC’s were. Early rappers were simply there to host the party. MC’s soon became the headliners at shows and parties. “Free styling was the way to find out who was the best rapper. Today rap is more intricate and complex than simple “Throw your hands in the air/rock the crowd rappers of the late 70’s and early 80’s.
It’s a Hip Hop World – hosted by Tony B, CEO & President of MUSICA Entertainment
3:35 – 3:55 Includes performances from Rainier Valley youth, guest speakers, and a presentation highlighting the impact of digital media on Hip Hop as well as the impact of Hip Hop on popular culture.
To learn more about the Rainier Valley Heritage Parade and Summer Streets Party visit http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/summer_rainier.htm. The Rainier Valley Culture Fest Weekend is a Seafair sponsored event and continues on Sunday, August 19 with the Othello Park International Music and Arts Festival from noon until 6 p.m.
Media contacts: Tony Benton, MUSICA Entertainment, (206) 280-3690, Richard Sheridan, Seattle Dept. of Transportation, (206) 684-8540, Susan Davis, Rainier Chamber of Commerce, (206) 725-2010
