The Block Party 2011 Presented by Channel 1

The 5th Annual Block Party presented by Channel 1 will be held on Saturday June 18 and Sunday June 19, 2011 as part of The International Festival of Arts & Ideas (June 11-25) on Temple St between Elm and Chapel next to the New Haven Green.

@ Saturday June 18, 2011
* 1-5 pm graffiti jam open invitational
* 1-2 pm performances by Elvee the Ultimate Emcee, Frank Brady, and Izado.
* 2-4 pm 2vs.2 Bboy Battle for $200 in cash EIGHT CREW LIMIT!! BE THERE FIRST! Dj N.E.B on the turntables. For more information contact Solomon Sheffield (203) 444-113
* 4-5 pm performance by Indy 5G

On the Elm Street Stage
* 5-5:45 pm "Can You Dig It!
45 minute stage production presented by Channel 1 & friends with rhyming narration, choreographed dancing, and music that demonstrates how break dancing was influenced by Greek, Middle Eastern, South American, and American culture. "Can You Dig It!" demonstrates how a simple activity such as break dancing can be used as a platform to champion an understanding and appreciation of different cultures. Narration by Elvee the Ultimate Emcee and music by DJ Lokash. Additional performances by Sharece Sellem, Jessica Delucia & her dance team, Taris Clemons, and Style Weapons Crew.

@ Sunday June 19, 2011
DJ DOOLEY-O on the turntables for an afternoon of groovy workshops

* 1-2 pm "Hip Hop, the Introduction of the Word and the Beat"
Learn about the origins of "rapping" and how early djs and emcees used this rhythmic style of poetry to address social and political issues of the day. After a brief history lesson, learn how to create your own "rap" in 16-bar measure with a rhythmic beat. "Hip Hop, the Introduction of the Word and the Beat" offers attendees insight into an oral tradition that was set forth by early hip-hop performers primarily within African- American and Latino-American communities of New York City. These early performers often served as role models within the community by writing their lyrics to foster community pride and promote positive self-esteem.

* 2-2:45 pm dance performance by the Kingdom Storm

* 2:45-4 pm "The Art of Hip-Hop Movement: Break Dancing"
Can you toprock, moonwalk or poplock? The rhythmic movement of the human body to hip-hop music is amazing to watch and not as difficult to learn as you might think. Learn how a few simple steps can undo two left feet and provide an excellent source of physical and mental conditioning while having fun with music. "The Art of Hip-Hop Movement: Breaking Dancing" demonstrates how a simple activity such as break dancing can be used as a platform to champion an understanding and appreciation of different cultures. The model for this workshop is a program developed by Channel 1 as a means of alleviating cultural tensions that divide people within a community.

For more info about the 2011 Block Party contact Lou at (203) 789-0309