The 11th annual Oceans of Rhythm Festival will take place June 6, beginning at 3 p.m., at the Lenna Conrow School in Long Branch.
The African/Caribbean musical event is sponsored by Zeybrah in conjunction with the Long Branch Office of Community Development and the Long Branch Department of Recreation. Zeybrah is a nonprofit cultural organization that creates community arts projects and festivals and trains young artists.
The event will include the fifth sequel in the Troutman folklore play series, "Swanita’s Traveling Altruistic Rescue Team."
Continuing the themes of previous years, Swanita will travel from ancient Long Branch to modern times along with a team that helps people overcome loneliness, social ostracism, substance abuse and others problems.
The performance of drama, music and song will include musical and dance numbers from different cultures.
Performers will include Ileana Santamaria, featured vocalist, daughter of the late internationally renowned drummer Mongo Santamaria, former members of the National Ballet of Senegal and the National Folkloric Ensemble of Cuba.
The world beat music group, Tambou Yambu, will perform as will a newly formed step team called Positive Change from The Hope Academy Charter School. Traditional Indian dance will be presented by Deepa Manjunath.
The musical tribute to community and the environment will be followed by a procession to Seven Presidents Park, led by a traditional African stilt walker. A mini-marketplace with food and crafts will be located at the beach.