Islanders can take a whirlwind musical trip around the world this summer by attending Vashon Allied Arts’ annual World Music and Dance Festival.

This year’s festival, scheduled from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at Camp Burton’s outdoor amphitheater, will include taiko drumming, Brazilian music, reggae/roots groove and music and dance from Ghana and West Africa.

Organizers promise that this all-ages festival will be one of the summer’s hottest musical events.

The festival’s line up includes Sohoyini, an ensemble that plays the lively percussive music of Ghana and West Africa and features the artistry of lead dancer Awal Alhassan. Dynamic Jap-anese drumming will be provided by One World Taiko. Eduardo Mendonca will supply traditional and contemporary Brazilian mu-sic, while reggae/roots groove will be served up by the Adrian Xavier Band.

World-inspired food and bev-

erages will be available by She-fidgets, an Island-based caterer. Kara Jones of Henna Healing will provide henna body art, and VAA will add other international surprises and attractions as well.

The festival is co-sponsored by Boeing and Vashon Park District, with additional support from Vashon Thriftway, Arts Fund and Washington Stage Arts Commission.

Tickets are $12 for VAA members, seniors and students, $5 for ages 12 and under and $14 general admission. Tickets are available now at Blue Heron Art Center and Heron’s Nest, or call 463-5131 to reserve tickets by phone. Camp Burton is an alcohol-free venue.

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