Like many of us over the last two years, Rhythmix Cultural Works is frequently adjusting to the realities of life with COVID. As health recommendations continue to change, Rhythmix is finally (but cautiously) making its way back from virtual programming to a full schedule of live events and classes. Despite the difficulties the pandemic presented for the arts, one program has grown with the challenges: the Rhythmix PAL (Performance, Art & Learning) arts education program.

For the past 10 years, the PAL program has brought world-class artists to the Rhythmix theater, and virtually into classrooms, presenting global music and dance traditions to students around the East Bay. Having expanded its reach during the pandemic, PAL has now served more than 60,000 students throughout Alameda County.

This fall, PAL not only returns to live programming in the Rhythmix theater but will also be presented directly in the community with PAL in the Parks. In partnership with the City of Alameda’s Recreation and Parks Department, PAL in the Parks will feature The Chinyakare Ensemble at Jean Sweeney Open Space Park on Saturday, August 20, and Caribbean Express at Chochenyo Park on Saturday, September 17. Both of these free, family-friendly performances will take place from noon to 1 p.m.

This Saturday, The Chinyakare Ensemble will provide audiences with a glimpse of the beauty, excitement, and spirit of Zimbabwe through an electrifying performance of traditional music, dance, song and storytelling. Audiences of all ages can share in the joy of music and dance together — and still be socially distant if desired! Get your dancing feet ready — there will be plenty of audience participation.

The Alameda Free Library’s Book Bike will be also on site at each event with free giveaways of children’s picture books and books for adults and teens while supplies last.

With music, dance, sunshine, and books, we hope that PAL in the Parks offers everything you could possibly want on a Saturday afternoon in Alameda. Rhythmix is located at 2513 Blanding Ave. To learn more, visit rhythmix.org for more info.

Jennifer Radakovich is the executive director of Rhythmix Cultural Works.