Take a trip across the world at June 18 Culturefest

For many, summer is about travel and relaxation. So, why not venture out of your office or cubicle to attend UNMC’s first summer culture fest on June 18?












Entertainment options



  • African dance — Charles Ahovissi & African Culture Connection;
  • Caribbean steel drums — Joey Gulizia;
  • Columbian dance — Kumbe Colombian Folkloric Dance Group;
  • German American Society Men’s Chorus — Die Singenden Wanderer;
  • Irish dancers — Brennan Irish Dancers; and
  • Indian, Egyptian and Polynesian dances — Amaru Dances of the World.




Greek, Indian, Italian and soul food vendors will prepare free samples for employees. And singers and dancers who represent various cultures will provide entertainment.

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the student plaza outside the Sorrrell Center — the first outdoor event in the new student area.

“This is the culmination of a year of learning about other cultures and backgrounds and an opportunity to showcase the diversity at UNMC and in the community we serve,” said Linda Cunningham, human resources department diversity specialist and president of the UNMC Employee Diversity Network (EDN).

Opening remarks will be made at 11:15 a.m. Also at the event:

  • Free food will be served between 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m;
  • Each vendor will provide information about how the food is prepared and its cultural significance; and
  • Performances will run non-stop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In the case of inclement weather, the event will be held in the Sorrell Center’s Truhlsen Campus Events Center.

Employees and students from UNMC, UNMC Physicians and The Nebraska Medical Center are welcome to attend.

2 comments

  1. Agnes says:

    I've taken classes with Charles before so I'm very exited to see his performance as he brings great energy to the dance floor. I'm also excited for the other performers as well. However, it is disturbing to see that the Amaru lady from CO will be performing. I try not to judge people before I see a performance but after looking her up online, I must say I am very disappointed. We have great Polynesian and Middle Eastern dance teachers in the area who stay true to the dance. Dancing is not about putting a good show with as little fabric on as possible. I'm sad to think this lady says that what she does is perform middle eastern (bellydance) and polynesian dance. I look forward to all the rest of the performances and hope she doesn't taint the name of real bellydancers out there.

  2. Meghan says:

    I agree, with you. I've taken a class with Charles and he is great. I also agree with you on Amaru. Her videos on youtube make me a bit skeptical. There are actually belly dance troops here in Omaha and Lincoln that are very good and reputable, I'm a little confused as to why they did not contact one of them.

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