In a brightly painted building, just off one of the main roads, is the World Beat Center. The building is round and doesn't look like it could possibly be as large inside as it is. Inside, painted pictures by local artists grace the wall, and if you're there on the right day, a pounding African beat electrifies the air.
Every Sunday, the WBC has open, free classes on African dance styles. You're allowed to either participate in the class, watch the class, or pound on a drum, if that's more your speed. People turn out by the dozens, and learn to communicate with body and sound.
They are always seeking volunteers, as a sidenote. It is a nonprofit organization that looks to promote black history as well as encourage world music as a form of language that everyone can understand.
There are also classes in various musical instruments, African drumming, and space is open for more. Most, if not all, of the classes are free.
It's hard to describe the energy of the place in words. There's a conectedness, a pulse that vibrates within your chest, a fearlessness that overcomes you while you watch. Audiences participate in the classes and performances with clapping or their own dancing -- I stood very quietly and absorbed it like a sponge. I've never, in all my years of live music and gatherings, felt anything like being at the WBC. It's worth seeking out if you're in the area.
Worth it, and more.