If you're in the San Diego area and looking for fun and interesting activities or events that highlight and explore African American culture, its history and its multitude of modern-day pathways, numerous options are available and worthy of consideration. Whether you prefer to sit quietly and be entertained by a dance trouper to comprehensively understand traditions stemming from African culture or desire to walk through an ongoing exhibit, prepare yourself for mental stimulation.
The San Diego Black Ensemble Theatre offers a variety of plays periodically throughout the calendar year. Playwrights, stories and actors are predominantly of African or African-American ethnicity. They typically address conflicting historically founded issues by questioning and portraying pros and cons associated with traditional black culture. Current and modern issues, circumstances and situations challenging the black race are also addressed. Prices are reasonable and based on a per show rate. Material can be intense and is always thought-provoking. This is a professional company that performs shows at numerous venues around the city.
The World Beat Center is a non-profit arts organization that supports and promotes the idea of "Healing the World through Music, Art, Dance Technology and Culture." Founded in 1980 and located in the Balboa Park complex, it is devoted to promoting, presenting and preserving African and indigenous world cultures. Programs and services range in interest and cater to children, young adults, families, seniors and all other inquisitive minds thirsty for knowledge and lively interactions or experiences. Examples of ongoing events or activities include blues music, an outdoor kids' concert and a reggae music festival. Film screenings, fundraisers, art walks and drumming events are also offered.
Named in honor of the slain human rights activist and leader, the Malcolm X Library & Performing Arts Center offers numerous events, activities and programs throughout the year intended to educate, entertain and enlighten minds. The library houses a significant collection of books, magazines and newspapers related to the African Diaspora experience. There's also an African American genealogy section worth browsing and contemplating. Local artists display cultural pieces here in various forms; author appearances and book readings are also offered. You can see a live performance in music or dance or take in a play at the performing arts center. It is open seven days a week at varying hours.
