The Museum of Discovery invites guests of all ages to experience the power of storytelling through its newest summer series: Hand Drums and Storytelling with Zinse Agginie. This summer program will be offered to all general admission guests on a first come first serve basis. Through the generous support of the Arkansas Arts Council, Agginie has provided Arts in Education workshops to classrooms across the state since the 1990s. Inspired by African folklore traditions, these interactive performances combine lively storytelling, memorable characters, rhythm, humor, and meaningful life lessons designed to engage audiences of all ages.
Originally from Ghana in West Africa, Agginie is a recipient of the Arkansas Governor’s Arts Award and an internationally recognized Arts in Education artist. Through storytelling and the use of African drumming, Agginie has spent decades helping students discover creativity, confidence, communication skills and cultural understanding. His acclaimed “Drum Ballet” program has been featured nationally, including in the documentary “Class Acts” one of the country’s most effective arts programs in schools.
Throughout the series, guests will gather to imagine, laugh and explore stories rooted in African folklore and creativity. Using expressive storytelling techniques and hand drums, Agginie creates an engaging experience that encourages participation while sharing lessons about honesty, kindness, respect, community and responsibility.
Each storytelling event includes three daily sessions at 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. Sessions are free for all museum guests and member families. Tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the museum on the day of each event. Space is limited to 25 guests per session.
The Museum of Discovery thanks the Arkansas Arts Council for its support of this programming and Arts in Education across the Natural State.
“We, at the Museum of Discovery, are incredibly thankful for our partnership with Mr. Agginie through the Arkansas Arts Council. We are overjoyed and eager to introduce this new program to interested guests and members this summer,” says Brooks Toney, the Museum of Discovery’s Community Engagement Coordinator.
Schedule and Descriptions
Saturday, June 6
Why Spiders Fear the Sun. Anansi the Spider decides to organize a feast to bring excitement to his world but promises made without honesty quickly lead to trouble. Through humor and chaos, Anansi learns important lessons about kindness, honesty, and respecting others’ differences.
Saturday, June 13
Anansi and the Itching Village (original story written by Zinse Agginie). Driven by jealousy and greed, Anansi attempts to disrupt an important village festival, only to become the victim of his own scheme. This story explores the importance of sharing, kindness, and being a positive member of the community.
Saturday, June 20
Beware of Strangers. Mother Antelope’s three babies ignore the rules of the forest and face dangerous consequences. This tale highlights the importance of listening, safety, and following rules.
Saturday, June 27
Mend Your Manners or How Tiger Got Stripes on Her Coat. Two animal friends discover how poor manners and disrespect can damage relationships. Guests will learn the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.
Saturday, July 4
The Eagle and the Birds. Eagle uses bullying and tricks to frighten the other birds and take what belongs to them, leading to serious consequences. This story reinforces lessons about fairness, empathy, and kindness.