Lots of “oohs” and “aahs” and plenty of enthusiastic cheering and applause could be heard throughout Highland recently, as Elementary and Middle School students were treated to several live performances by the visiting Zuzu Acrobats.

Hailing from East Africa, members of the troupe showed off their unique talents while simultaneously celebrating the beauty of Tanzanian culture. In addition to jaw-dropping acrobatics and gravity-defying stunts (which included contortion, chair balancing, juggling, and jump roping, to name a few), the interactive shows featured music, dancing, comedy, and lots of audience participation.

In anticipation of the acrobats’ visit, Grade 8 students in Christina Osburn’s art classes at Highland Middle School spent time creating artwork depicting a wide variety of animals from the African Savannah. Working alone or in groups of four, the students layered and blended oil pastels to create their vibrant drawings. They were also asked to incorporate bold African-style patterns around their work to help tie the pieces together.

The colorful artwork was displayed in the school’s gymnasium and served as the perfect backdrop to the group’s performance on March 2.

Thank you to the Zuzu Acrobats for visiting Highland. Students of all ages were truly wowed by their impressive performances. Each Husky walked away with a beat in their head, rhythm in their step, and a newfound appreciation for another culture!