World Fest Resumes in Elyria, Ohio

Arts Midwest World Fest presents international musical ensembles in intensive week-long residencies in smaller Midwest communities. Its purpose is to foster an understanding of and appreciation for global uniqueness and differences.

We are grateful to Arts Midwest and its Senior Program Director Ken Carlson for giving us the opportunity to participate in World Fest not once, but twice this year. We are having a blast and hope you can enjoy some of our photos and stories from the road.

Our week in Elyria, Ohio began with Easter Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in downtown Cleveland. For most members of Çudamani, this was their first time stepping inside a Catholic church.

Eka demonstrates hand gestures to a group of elementary students and teachers at Lake Ridge Academy. Children and adults alike are often intrigued by the unique finger movements found in Balinese dance.

Emiko and Dewa lead the group in a kecak workshop.

Gangsar and Surya teach students how to play the gangsa.

Dewa teaches a student how to play the ceng ceng.

Emiko leads a workshop at Murray Ridge School.

Agung and the men perform kecak.

A new admirer thanks Ayu Kadek and Dek Ayu for their beautiful performance.

The men wave goodbye to the enthusiastic audience at Murray Ridge School.

Ayu Kadek dances for a small group of students at Lorain Community Middle School.

Residents of Kendall at Oberlin rush the stage with questions and comments. It was privilege to visit this small neighboring community.

Emiko breaks down the instruments of the gamelan to a group of students at Amherst Steele High School.

Agung, Surya, and Ratna wait patiently at a community gathering at Pioneer Ridge.

Eka, Ayu Kadek, and Dek Ayu relax while the men perform.

Benot and Eric get lost in the moment during their kecak performance.

The members of Çudamani, energized and excited after a great workshop.

Dewa demonstrates a strong male character.

The group performs at a conference for the Midwest Institute for International Education.

Thanks to Janet Herman Barlow and the crew at Stocker Arts Center for a wonderful first week!