The 16th annual Folk and Roots Festival, sponsored by the Sousa Archives and Center for American Music, kicks off next Thursday, October 3rd, with a special performance presentation, “Embracing Music’s Diversity” by Eddie Barbash and KASA & Friends at the University’s Music and Performing Arts Library (MPAL) reading room. This performance starts at 4pm and will be followed by performances at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (KCPA) with Jason Finkleman & Bourema “Ibrahim” Ouedraoge at 5pm and Miguel Espinoza Fusion at 5:45pm.  So if you’re looking for music that is a little outside of the box, then head on over to the MPAL and KCPA for some outstanding entertainment and dancing.  The Thursday programs are free and open to the general public.  For a complete schedule of the performances and ticket information please visit Folk & Roots Festival 2024.