NDI New Mexico has returned to Artesia for its 13th year of teaching students its messages of teamwork, perseverance and self-confidence.
From Jan. 8-19, approximately 332 students – from fourth-graders from Central, Hermosa, Roselawn, Yeso and Yucca Elementary Schools to tiny tots from Grand Heights Early Childhood Center to teachers – have been learning and rehearsing their newest show, “Roots Revival!” Led by NDI New Mexico’s Carmen Ayala, Emily Lowman, Joel Fadness and Dr. Brian Bennett, the curriculum of every class in the two-week residency encourages healthy attitudes, self-discipline, and creativity, and provides students with an opportunity to perform in front of their peers.
“Roots Revival!” is a vibrant celebration of the early roots of American music told through story, song and dance, and includes bluegrass, spirituals, gospel, blues, zydeco, Tejano, Native American and Northern New Mexican folk music.
The Artesia Residency is part of NDI New Mexico’s statewide Outreach Program, which places a certified instructor and professional pianist in classes in schools throughout New Mexico as part of their curriculum. NDI New Mexico also trains classroom teachers to get students up and moving, and incorporates their techniques into language arts and math core curricula. All NDI New Mexico programs are character-building and use dance to teach an important life lesson – that working hard, doing your best, never giving up, and living a healthy life equals success.
Free performances of the show will be held at 1 and 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19, at the Artesia High School Auditorium.
