SPECIAL PROGRAMS

"Living History Programs"

is an acoustic presentation great for pioneer or Gold Rush Living-History Day events. Students will be transported through time participating in singing period appropriate party songs, Circle dance/games, and the Virginia Reel, a popular contra dance of the times. The songs and portrayals of this presentation help to imbue living history programs with the life and spirit of pioneer and Gold Rush times. All day music and instrument stations are available with this program. Related areas: California and American History, Theater and Performing Arts.

"Songs, Dances, and Stories of Native American People"

Charles Hurley grew up listening to his grandmother tell the ancient stories of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe. The stories she told, the same ones she had heard her grandmother tell, inspired Mr. Hurley to research his Native American roots, and sparked a passionate interest in all indigenous people. This 90-minute presentation is aimed at smaller groups of students studying Native American Life. Students will learn about Native American life and culture through stories, songs, and dances representing various tribes of California and plains Indians. Participants will have an opportunity to drum on a 24-inch community drum, sing songs in several native languages as well as dance traditional dances. An Acorn Song from the Yokut tribe of California, a Sierra Miwok Acorn Dance and Song, the Mojave Indian Bird Dance and Song, The Rabbit Song of the Northern Plains Tribes, and a Hunting Song and Dance of the Omaha Indians are featured in this program. Stories of how the people received the flute, when the animals held a meeting, how the turkey made corn, and when the dogs held an election, will be told as introduction to the songs and dances as well as to give students insight to Native American beliefs, their strong connection to nature, and their unique sense of humor.