Description:

This dynamic workshop from Syrian-American rapper Omar Offendum is open to students and faculty. No prior knowledge of Arabic is required.  Bring an openness to language, poetry, and participation.  

From Kabbani to Kendrick: Building Bridges between Poetry and Hip-Hop in the Language Classroom.  Omar grew up studying Arabic poetry in school, while listening to rap on his bus rides home.  By finding thematic connections betwee the two art forms, and eventually incorporating both of them into his own unique performance style, Offendum offers a unique perspective on how to bridge the two disciplines in ways that can keep students engaged and excited about learning a foreign language.