June 10, 2011, 7-9pm 
BIKO Transformation Center 
1474 Bushwick Avenue (Bushwick) 

The Garifuna Center in Bushwick invites you to a traditional evening uraga (storytelling session) at BIKO. Storytellers hailing from Belize and Honduras include James Lovell, Tyrone "Owusu" Slater, and guest artist Irka Mateo, who will present traditional tales and songs. Traditional food will also be served. Rain or shine. Presented by Brooklyn Arts Council in cooperation with BIKO 

ARTIST BIOS

Irka Mateo is a Taino/Dominican storyteller, performer, and folk music collector who has traveled the countryside of the Dominican Republic for 10 years, researching and recording native folkloric music and tales. She is founder of Guabancex Wind and Water Society, dedicated to the investigation and dissemination of Taino legacies. Ms. Mateo is also a teacher and leads workshops in Dominican Folk Percussion, Neo Taino music, and Storytelling in Taino Mythology for children.

James Lovell is a Garifuna originally from Belize in the early nineties. Born with a gift to sing, this ability gave him the opportunities to perform in elementary and high school talent shows in Belize, and neighboring countries. James is also the Music Director as well as the Vice-President of Ilagulei (roots) Garifuna performing Arts Company Inc. In 1995 he produced his First CD Titled Cabasa Numari (who is going to be my wife); James is the original author of this song, however it was first recorded by La Tribu Garifuna. In addition Estrellas Ubow pre-recorded Hesientibunu (I like you) which was also written by James. James is currently signed to Punta Rock Records, one of the largest Record Label Companies promoting the Garifuna Artist/ Bands.