The annual Rhythm by the River event presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts will feature some of the most exciting and innovative Black voices in Broward County as they take center stage from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 19 at Esplanade Park, 32 E. Las Olas Blvd. in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

Rhythm by the River features live music, dance, drama, spoken word poetry performances, and interactive events for the entire family.

On the main stage, The Smoogies kick off the afternoon’s music lineup with a blend of jazz, funk, and R&B sounds and influences. Miami-born Gia Wyre, also known as “Songbird,” will perform soul-stirring gospel and R&B. Singer, saxophonist and pianist Timothy Dukes will also perform the powerful sounds of gospel. Singer, songwriter and producer Sizwe Collins, a staple in the Caribbean community across South Florida, will offer a mix of sounds from steelpan and African drums. R&B and hip-hop artist/producer Jean Carlos Casely closes the festival’s performances on a high note.

Free community workshops offered at the Broward Center’s Mary N. Porter Riverview Ballroom include spoken word with Art Prevails Project founder Darius V. Daughtry, drumming with Troupe Fall West African Drum and Dance and hip-hop/dance with Developing Dream Foundation’s executive director Pablo Malco. The afternoon also features arts and crafts and food trucks from J&J Soul Food, Wontons on Wheels, The Caribe Vegan and cupcakes from Sweet Sensations by Charlene.

To learn more, visit BrowardCenter.org or email [email protected].