Music Program at MIPS May 9

Musician Sean Forbes and storyteller Betty Manion will present this year's program during the Music in the Schools Program Friday, May 9, at Mackinac Island Public School. They are sponsored by Mackinac Island Arts Council.

Mr. Forbes, who lost his hearing at age one, performs rap because the beat allows him to hear and feel the music.

Believing that music can be visual as well as audio, he has created the nonprofit Deaf Performing Artists Network ( DPAN) to enliven music videos for the hearing-impaired.

Mr. Forbes will speak with grades eight through 12 about overcoming challenges and stereotypes. He will perform some of his original hip-hop numbers and share some of his D-PAN videos.

Wisconsin storyteller Betty Manion will entertain students in grades kindergarten through seven using hats and other props and lots of audience participation. Her programs are designed to influence children to read for enjoyment.

Community members are welcome to attend the presentations, which will begin about 2 p.m. at the school.