Exhibit: American Sabor
Dance to the Music
We listened, danced and learned a thing or two – including salsa moves – on a recent visit to American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music, the newest exhibit at the Atlanta History Center.
My son and I prepared for our visit by reading about Latin musicians and their influence on the different genres of American music, including hip hop, jazz and rock ’n roll. As a parent, I enjoyed reading about my own favorite Latin musicians like Selena and Desi Arnaz – I’m also a huge Lucy fan.
We heard salsa music at listening stations throughout the exhibit, then we explored the jukebox area where my son could dance to popular Latin songs on the adjacent dance floor that had colored strobe lights and rotating music symbols. This is a great area for children to dance and enjoy the true essence of the exhibit.
The History Center plans events around the exhibit, including movies and lectures. Movies screening this month are Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights, 2 p.m. Dec. 6; Selena, 2 p.m. Dec. 13; LaBamba, 2 p.m. Dec. 10, and Mad About Mambo, 2 p.m. Dec. 27. Three Kings Day, or Dia de Los Reyes, will be celebrated in collaboration with the Mexican Consulate and Instituto de Mexico from 1-5 p.m. Jan. 4 with crafts and hands-on activities – and it’s a free admission day at the History Center.
The Latin music and the salsa dancing of the American Sabor traveling exhibit made our first visit to the Atlanta History Center really enjoyable. The History Center also offers additional galleries and outdoor areas to explore. It is a great place to visit with children of all ages and we look forward to going again!
– Ayanna Hawkins