Rhythm of Freedom: A Juneteenth Celebration

Academy Member Presale begins Monday, April 7, 2025. Remaining tickets will be released to the public on Friday, April 11, 2025. All sales begin at 10 AM EST.

Audiences will be taken on a journey from the ancestral roots of African dance and drumming to contemporary expressions of freedom through spoken word, modern, and West African dance. Featured performers include the Kuumba Dance Ensemble, World of Dance Performing Arts Co, and choreography by Artist Laureate Keith Lee of the Keith Lee Dances Additional appearances include collaborative percussionists and spoken word artists Auntorio Rucker and WORDSMITH V1SIONS.

The evening will unfold in two acts:

• Act I: Roots – West African Traditions explores cultural foundations through drumming, dance, and storytelling.
• Act II: Echoes and Evolution – Dance of the Diaspora highlights how those traditions have transformed across generations and artistic disciplines.

The event concludes with a powerful finale featuring all artists in a collaborative performance, inviting audience participation to honor the spirit of unity and liberation.

Ticket Access

Everyone deserves access to the arts! Our programs offer discounted tickets and class enrollment for those who qualify, including:

• Group Sales
• Senior Discount
• Educator & Military Discount
• Passport Program (WIC Participant)

For details on eligibility and how to apply these discounts, please click here or contact our Box Office:

Phone: (434) 846-8499
Email: boxoffice@academycenter.org
Visit: 519 Commerce St, Lynchburg, VA 24504
Hours: Mon–Fri, 12–5 PM & 1 hour before event