Today the first ever House of Somalia lawn program was held among the International Cottages in Balboa Park. It was a big, fun cultural celebration!
The House of Somalia is a new member of the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. They are the first nation in the group to represent Africa!
The House of Somalia’s first annual lawn program brought out a good crowd. People happily mingled while enjoying a variety of food, goods, crafts, and very lively entertainment up on the stage.
Representatives from the Somali Museum of Minnesota and their troupe of Traditional Dancers came all the way to San Diego to participate in the celebration. I was interested to learn the Somali Museum of Minnesota is North America’s only Somali-focused museum.
Beginning around 2 pm, after some short speeches, including glowing words by WorldBeat Center founder Makeda Cheatom, the dancers took the stage.
The dancers began by performing the Dhaanto, which mimics the movements of a camel. Many other folk dances would follow, all of which were very expressive. I believe the one with much spinning was the Jaandheer. You had to be there to experience the energy and sense of joy.
It was an outstanding inaugural lawn program for the House of Somalia!
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