"Drums Up, Guns Down" Coming to Morristown Campus Feb. 18
February 10, 2026
Come Drum, Dance With Group
“Drums Up, Guns Down,” an interactive program spotlighting the art of West African
Drum and Dance, is coming to the Walters State Morristown Campus on Feb. 18 at 6 p.m.
This program will be held in the theatre of the Judge William H. Inman Humanities
Complex. The event is free and open to everyone. Audience participation is encouraged.
“This is an intensive, full interactive experience,” said “Drums Up, Guns Down” founder
Obayana Ajanaku of Knoxville. “This showcase has a brief history lesson. Then, it
becomes an immersive experience through African drum and dance.”
Ajanaku began “Drums Up, Guns Down,” the deaths of three Knoxville high school students
in three weeks. The program was inspired when Ajanaku observed the best friend of
one of the deceased students playing the drums alone, pouring all of his emotions
into the rhythm.
“Our mission is to use the art form provided by drum and dance as a way for youth
to express themselves. So many young people are affected by gun violence. This expression
can help heal present and past traumas,” Ajanaku said.
Participants immerse themselves in the study and performance of traditional drum rhythms.
Community members join the group in providing mentorship, training and other needed
support.
“Through the process of learning cultural arts, participants experience meaningful
social and emotional healing,” Ajanaku said. “Our program also supports student growth
in many areas, including the development of effective communication skills and the
ability to work with others in a positive environment.”
No tickets or reservations are needed.