Storytelling in a dance

By PEGGY SINKOVICH
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
WARREN -- It was difficult for Alesia Henderson to sit still as she listened to the beat of the drums and watched traditional African dances being performed.
The 10-year-old, who lives in the Highland Terrace Apartment Complex, was one of 35 children who took part in a program on African dances and storytelling at the Highland Terrace Community Center.
The free program was open to all residents of the Highland Terrace Apartment Complex, one of several properties owned by Trumbull Metropolitan Housing.
"Hearing the drums makes me want to dance," Alesia said. "I wanted to come because I thought it would be interesting, and I was right."
Denise Matlock, a local dancer, volunteered Wednesday to show how the dances are performed.
"African dance is the root of all dance," Matlock said. "The dances are part of African tradition and are a form of expression."
Matlock demonstrated several different dances and asked for volunteers. Most of the children opted to dance near their seats rather than getting in front of the crowd.
"I want to dance, but not up there," said 9-year-old Brian Hicks. "This is really fun."
His sister, Maya, 7, wasn't as shy and started dancing in the aisle.
Matlock's husband, Glenn, who is the youth activities director at the center, said he wanted the children to learn a little about black history.
"I know black history month is officially in February but I don't think we need to limit it to one month," Glenn Matlock said.
He spent about 30 minutes telling stories to the children and explaining that storytelling was a form of entertainment years ago before television and radio.