Thrive & Survive: Becoming & Believing in the Unknown
Facilitated by Adia Tamar Whitaker

Friday, December 10th, 2021

Convergence Curating artist Adia Tamar Whitaker focused on Haitian Kontredanse, Haitian Djouba, Congolese Counterclockwise Dance and an introduction to Puerto Rican Bomba rhythm Yuba.

Morning Musician Workshop

In the morning session Convergence Curating Artist Adia Tamar Whitaker led a workshop at the Albany Department of Recreation for Albany Symphony musicians to explore Haitian, Congolese, and Puerto Rican dance forms and rhythms. Adia’s Convergence project focuses musically, lyrically, and physically on the syncretism of the Pinkster Festival, a significant celebration of enslaved peoples in the region.

What is the Pinkster Festival?

Pinkster Festival was a recognized Dutch Pentecostal Celebration in Capital Region during the 17th century.
Enslaved Africans from the Congo had already been exposed to Christianity prior to being kidnapped and stolen.
Enslaved Africans used their knowledge of European religion and rituals to create a network of communication and resistance.
The Pinkster Festival was eventually outlawed for fear of a Black uprising.

Photo Credit: Nyla McKenzie-Isaac

Adia Whitaker and Jae Gayle discussing the workshop.

Adia warming up with ASO musicians.

Adia demonstrating the dance.

Participants joining in the dance.

Adia getting ready to lead a Haitian Kontradans.

Executive Director Anna Kuwabara and Music Director David Alan Miller participating in the workshop.

Musicians dancing a traditional Haitian Kontradans.

Adia and Jae participating in the Kontradans.

Participants circling up after the dance session.

The musicians learning about the Pinkster festival.

Adia describes the importance of the Pinkster Festival.

Afternoon School Workshop

In the afternoon Adia visited Albany High School and led workshops for dance and world drumming students.

Photo Credit: Albany City Schools

Click here to see more photos from her visit

Evening Community Workshop

In the evening, Adia Whitaker led a workshop open to the community at the Arbor Hill Community Center in the exploration of the Pinkster Festival and traditional Jubas. Jamaican food was provided by Irie Vybez.

Photo Credit: Gary Gold