MOTOWN Cast Set for AMNH's 2013 Kwanzaa Festival Today

The American Museum of Natural History celebrates its 35th annual Kwanzaa celebration today, December 28, from noon to 5pm. The event celebrates the rich traditions of Kwanzaa and honors the holiday's seven guiding principles.

Performers from the Tony-nominated "Motown: The Musical" will sing a medley of Supremes hits, including "Where Did Our Love Go?" and Restoration Dance Theatre Company perform African, Caribbean, and modern dances in full costume to celebrate Kwanzaa 2013: 35th Anniversary Celebration at the American Museum of Natural History-one of the largest and longest-running Kwanzaa celebrations in the country.

Hosted by storyteller Linda Humes, the festivities will also include family-friendly activities, exciting raffles, and an international marketplace. Back by popular demand, Oscar-nominated youth ensemble IMPACT Repertory Theatre, with Ugandan poet Emilia Ottoo, opens the show. Restoration Dance Theatre Company returns with an eclectic mix of African, Caribbean, and modern dances. Balance Dance Theatre, led by acclaimed choreographer Obediah Wright, performs. Bestselling author and award-winning filmmaker MK Asante introduces his landmark film, narrated by world-renowned poet Maya Angelou, The Black Candle: A Kwanzaa Celebration, followed by a book signing of his new memoir, Buck.

Kwanzaa 2013 is co-presented by Community Works and New Heritage Theatre Group. The Kwanzaa marketplace is organized by the Harlem Arts Alliance.

It all takes place today, Saturday, December 28 in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, American Museum of Natural History, first floor.

Schedule:

12:15 pm: The Supremes from "Motown: The Musical"

12:45 pm: IMPACT Repertory Theatre introduced by Emilia Ottoo

1:30 pm: Restoration Dance Theatre Company