Bridges of Peace and Hope Concert Unites Students Across a City
More than 280 students and teachers from five schools came together for the Bridges of Peace and Hope Concert in April 2009, creating a 'bridge' that united cultures, schools and generations.
On April 7, 2009 a year long creative arts in education project culminated with the Bridges of Peace and Hope Concert. Students and teachers from six public schools plus Western Connecticut State University, and the New Hope Baptist Church choir all came together with Ghanaian drummer Kofi Donkor and songwriter John Farrell to sing, dance, drum and tell stories of peace and hope.
Dr. Darla Shaw, who coordinated and directed the project, said after the concert, that it was the most amazing program she had seen in over 50 years of working in education. This was high praise from an educator with Dr. Shaw’s extensive experience and credentials. Dr. Shaw has been a leader in innovator in education for many years.
Over 280 students and teachers participated in the concert which was held at White Hall on the downtown campus of Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, CT. Students sang, acted out stories, displayed artwork and read their poems about hope.
All of the students on stage during the concert are wearing their Bridges of Peace and Hope” tee shirts. The shirts were designed by graphic artist Randall Douglas, based on a painting done by Malawi artist, Kiri Mhonie. John Farrell met Kiri in Cape Town South Africa and John and Kiri became friends and Kiri has donated paintings to help BoPH. Randy Douglas also donated his superb graphic design to the project.
"Many Different Languages"
Songs from the concert can be seen in the Songs & Performances section of the Video Gallery.