Artist Profile: Yorel F. Lashley

Yorel Lashley is the Director of Programs in the Office of Professional Learning and Community Education at UW–Madison’s School of Education and Director of Student Empowerment for the Center for Arts Education and Social and Emotional Learning. He is a developmental psychologist interested in self-efficacy and social-emotional learning in arts, academic and integrated environments as well as the Founder/Director of Drum Power. Drum Power uses West African Traditional, Afro-Brazilian and Afro-Cuban percussion to help young people develop and practice social-emotional skills, discipline, community engagement and leadership. The program has supported more than 4,000 young people from New York City, Denver and Madison, Wisconsin to date.

1) How do you continue to grow as an artist? Is it more of an organic or intentional process—or both?

I see the process as both. While I definitely believe that we are born into environments and families that determine and direct much of what happens to us (as well as the opportunities that we will have in life), I also believe that our intentional work to develop ourselves also determines how prepared we will be to take advantage of the opportunities that arise for us when they do. I know this has been true for me—I went after knowledge and training that I wanted very intentionally but the folks who supported me with their wisdom and support appeared along that journey very organically…and continue to.

2) What words accurately reflect past (or present) themes explored in your choreography?

Power, joy and community are the themes in my creative work.

3) What are you most excited about in regard to your role at Drum Power and its upcoming summer programming &/or performances? I'm most excited to support young people to see and dream of worlds through the arts that are foreign and yet familiar—vast, and yet attainable. I enjoy watching them learn about themselves and the power they have by practicing the use of that power.

4) Is there a particular exhibition, concert, book, spoken word event and/or film you are looking forward to this year?

The Kankouran West African Dance Company’s 40th Anniversary Conference and Concert happening September 1-3, 2023.