Africa's Watoto Children's Choir Set to Visit Moreno Valley

The Watoto Children’s Choir is coming to town late this month. Traveling from Africa, the choir kicked off their six month U.S tour in Queens Creek, Ariz. in mid-December 2013 and are continuing their tour through the west coast — ending in Washington on April 4 this year. They'll make their way to Moreno Valley for two performances, one on Jan. 31, and the next on Feb. 1. All performances are free and open to the public. The Watoto Children’s Choir acts as Watoto ambassadors to raise awareness about the plight of the orphaned and vulnerable children of Africa. Watoto is a holistic child-care solution initiated to serve the dire needs of Africa and her people. Each of the children in the choir has suffered the loss of one or both parents. They live in Watoto Children’s Villages where they receive the care and nurture they need to grow up as productive citizens of their own country. With vibrant, original African music; dance routines; life-transforming stories, the tour is indicative of the new generation of leaders emerging out of Watoto. “Through the choir’s Concert of Hope, we share a message of transformation by telling the story of Africa’s rescued orphans and women,” said Gary Skinner, Watoto founder. "We hope to reach out to audiences with the message of Christ’s healing power." With its genuine appeal, accompanied by music and dance — an energetic fusion of contemporary gospel and traditional African rhythm — the globally acclaimed Watoto Children’s Choir has traveled internationally since 1994 as ambassadors for the millions of children in Africa, orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS, war and poverty. Since its inception, 64 choirs have traveled globally, providing the children with a bigger worldview, an unusual opportunity they would otherwise never get. The choirs have been to Australia, Brazil, China, Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, Germany, France and the U.S, among others. Their audiences have included royalty, presidents, ministers and the ordinary person, capturing many hearts wherever they go. Residents interested in seeing the choir can catch them at 7 p.m. at The Blessing Center, located at 23525 Hemlock Ave. in Moreno Valley, on Jan. 31; and at 7 p.m. at CrossWinds Church, located at 29263 Ironwood Ave. in Moreno Valley, on Feb. 1. To see a complete list of tour dates, times and locations, visit https://www.watoto.com/the-choir/see-the-choir.