Although there are many ways to honor Black History Month, we would like to shine a light on the countless contributions of Black and African American dancers and choreographers. The cultural impact has allowed many races, ages, and nationalities all over the world to celebrate the African influence on modern movement. While you may not be as familiar with Katherine Dunham as Misty Copeland, or know the difference between the Juba or the Dab, the evolution of dance movement as we know it today has significant African origins in composition and movement patterning.
“The present always contains the past, and the past shapes who we are and who we will be.” Camille A. Brown (choreographer, dancer, educator)
The History of African American Social Dance (YouTube)
Pictorial records of early African movement exhibit low center of gravity, multiple body rhythms, hinged hip posturing, and asymmetry of body positions.1 The ancestral narrative of body rhythms, mechanics and percussive beats was habituated generation after generation. The evolution of social dance came through a common, yet complex history of shared experiences as a form of community, connection, celebration and unity. Trailblazing choreographers danced through barriers, limitations and circumstances to bring this movement to the United States. This paved the way for creation and innovation pioneering many contemporary dance genres and styles (Hambone, Tapping, Swing, Stepping, Breakdancing), as well as specific moves (The Twist, Cabbage Patch, Cat Daddy, Twerk).
Honoring the artistic expression of today, dancers and choreographers alike continue the narrative communicating through human movement and form. It is with great admiration and appreciation, Vibe Fitness recognizes the exceedingly difficult yet continuous journey of keeping this rich history alive.
We would like to invite you to learn and experience more with us as we continue to highlight the cultural impact of how the past and present unite. The list below contains additional reading resources, classes to experience, as well as important organizations to follow and support.
Visual History / Biography / Spotlight
- The Story of Black History and Culture Through Dance
- A Ballerina’s Tale
- The History of African American Social Dance (YouTube)
Reading/learning resources
- The Story of Black History and Culture Through Dance
- 15 Black Dancers Who Changed American Dance
- Celebrating African American Choreographers and Dancers
- African American Dancers of Today
Experience classes
- Alvin Ailey Extension Online Classes
- Dance Theater of Harlem Adult Open Online Classes
- Dance Theater of Harlem Kids Instructional Videos
- Debbie Allen Adult Open Online Classes
Events
Support
Citations
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