Culture at a Click
It's officially summer vacation for families like mine, and although Zoom classes have ended, our need for entertainment and activity is still going strong.
While we're spending more time at home, we’re reminded that exploration is as much mental as it is physical. “A person susceptible to 'wanderlust' is not so much addicted to movement as committed to transformation," Pico Iyer says. So get ready for an adventure! We've collected family-friendly performances, educational resources and opportunities to get creative with your kiddos.
Here's to family time,
Celesta M. Billeci
Miller McCune Executive Director
Give now to participate in a $150,000 matching gift.
Renowned Japanese taiko drumming ensemble Yamato was scheduled to bring its tremendous blend of skill, physicality and discipline to our Family Fun series this season, but the tour was unfortunately among our spring cancellations. Luckily for us, they've made their 25th anniversary performance, Passion, available to watch online. Their thrilling, high-energy kaleidoscope of sound takes their virtuosity, strength, spirit and sheer endurance to a new level.
Want to learn how to create a gomikan (garbage can taiko) or play taiko bingo? Check out the Portland Taiko curriculum guide.
When the pop-rock band OK Go brought their big-hearted happiness with a heavy dose of creativity to the A&L stage, they broke the record for most confetti ever to find its way to UCSB Campbell Hall. We're returning to their music videos now to bring back the sense of wonder we get from their interconnected performances, videos, dances and wild, undreamt fun. Since the sky is the limit when it comes to their imagination, why not start by watching their zero-gravity masterpiece (above), "Upside Down & Inside Out."
Then, take a creative deep dive with OK Go's inspiring tools for playful learning, helping youngsters learn through the joy of OK Go’s music videos.
National Geographic photographer and conservationist Joel Sartore wants everyone to think about the serious consequences of species extinction. He's bringing attention to the vast, and growing, number of endangered animals in the world today through The National Geographic Photo Ark, his one-of-a-kind photo collection of wildlife. Sartore has created resources to teach about the amazing animals in the Photo Ark, highlight the importance of storytelling in conservation and empower youngsters to spread the word about species extinction. In the words of Joel, “Let’s save together!"
Ziggy Marley recorded his first song with his siblings when he was 11 years old. After the death of his father two years later, Ziggy took his place in The Wailers. Continuing the tradition, "Family Time," a track off his album of the same name, features his daughter Judah Marley. Listen to the track, and see what kind of family time it inspires for you!
Love the Okee Dokee Brothers? So do we! If you're looking for a fun activity to do while listening to the Grammy Award-winning musical duo from our Family Fun series, look no further. Color, connect the dots and color by number in their music and nature-themed activity book!
The Story Pirates know that your kids are creative geniuses. A renowned group of comedians, musicians, authors and incredible teachers, their critically-acclaimed podcast, albums and middle-grade books are based on stories written by kids around the world. The Creator Club, their new subscription service, features activities, live streamed classes, a daily radio show and videos to entertain and encourage creativity for kids at home. Explore ways to make time at home more creative and fun – plus, submit your kids' stories!
A&L Online Student Ambassadors have been compiling ongoing virtual events. Here are some of their recommendations for the whole family to enjoy together:
