Watoto Children's Choir to perform in Orange City: They're an energetic fusion of contemporary gospel and traditional African rhythm, and share a message of transformation, said Watoto founder Gary Skinner. The popular and widely acclaimed Watoto Children's Choir is returning to Orange City, and will perform at First Reformed Church in Orange City Thursday, May 3 at 7:00pm, sponsored by the Orange City Arts Council.
ORANGE CITY – The Watoto Children’s Choir will present their energetic music and dance show in Orange City Thursday, May 3 at First Reformed Church.
The 7:00pm show features original and vibrant African music with dance routines and life-transforming stories. The program is entitled “Beautiful Africa: A New Generation.”
The globally acclaimed choir was born from the holistic care program, Watoto, initiated to serve a variety of needs of the African people, especially those of children orphaned as a result of war, poverty and HIV/AIDS. “We share a message of transformation,” said Watoto founder Gary Skinner, “telling the story of Africa’s rescued orphans and women.”
Each of the children in the choir has suffered the loss of one or both parents, and all live in Watoto Children’s Villages.
The choir hopes to reach audiences “with the message of Christ’s healing power,” said Skinner.
This tour began in Dallas, TX and the 22 children and 10 adults will travel for six months, visiting San Antonio, Tulsa, Wichita, Little Rock, St Louis, Kansas City, Des Moines, Minneapolis, Milwaukee and Chicago.
Since the tour’s inception in 1994, 50 choirs have traveled globally, providing the children with an opportunity to broaden their world view. They have done shows in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan and the U.S., and have performed for royalty and national leaders.
The May 3 concert is free, but an offering will be received for Watoto.
A school assembly will be held at First Reformed Thursday afternoon, May 3. For more information, contact the sponsor, Orange City Arts Council, ocArts@orangecityiowa.com or 712.707.6514.
Visit watotochoirs.wordpress.com for regular updates on choirs on the road – choir 54. For additional information, see watoto.com/choir.
