ASHLAND, Ky. — Taking the stage at the Paramount Arts Center, area youth re-created a night at the famed Apollo Theatre.

Saturday’s event was part of the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center’s celebration of Black heritage during Black History Month.

This year’s theme is The Rhythm of Life: Celebrating Our Musical Roots.

Exhibits are on display all month.

Upcoming events include:

Gospel Night 2009 – Thursday, February 12 at 7pm at the museum. Special gospel music from local choirs will be featured. Hosted by Boyd County High School’s Celebration Club, the event is free to the public with a reception following.

Marshall University’s African Drumming & Dance Ensemble – Thursday, February 26 at 7pm at the museum. Specializing in the traditional music of West Africa, the program is directed by J. Steven Hall, Professor of Music at Marshall University. Hosted by Paul Blazer High School’s Human Relations Club, the event if free with a public reception.

From Spirituals to Rap – A special Discovery Workshop for grades K-4. Students will hear how the stories and experiences of African-Americans were interwoven into unique American music styles. They will create a percussion instrument using African-American designs.

Housed in the historic Parsons Department Store, the museum is located at 1620 Winchester Avenue. Museum tours are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and Mondays by appointment. Regular admission is $5.50 for adults and $4.50 for seniors, students and children. Members and children under 2 are free.

For more information, call (606) 329-8888, email us at highlandsmuseum@yahoo.com, or visit the Web site at www.highlandsmuseum.com.