Black History Now! February 18, 2006

Join this annual celebration! The African American Art & Culture Complex plays host to Soaring Steps Black History Now, an afternoon dedicated to celebrating Afro American contributions to dance. Learn how African American art and culture influence dance in America. Discover great African American dance figures of yesterday and the masterminds behind todays dance productions! All ages are invited to enjoy this fun-filled afternoon of creative exploration, free dance classes, live dance performances, presentations, snacks, refreshments, prizes and more!

1-2:30pm: Hall of Culture
Lindy Hop Dance with MikeLindy Hop dance lesson & performance w/ Mike Quebec

Mike Quebec will swing you back in time and tell you all about how Lindy Hop was developed by African American dancers in the 1930's. Then you'll learn how to dance the "Granddaddy of all Swing". This free class will teach you basic steps, crazy dips and ways to flip your partner around to the jamming sounds of Big Band and Rhythm and Blues. No partner necessary all ages welcome! A special Hip Hop & Jazz dance workshop will also be available for youth ages 12-18. Plenty of snacks, drinks, vendors, live music, prizes, and more will be available in the Hall for your enjoyment!

2:30-4pm: Buriel Clay Theater
Following the Hall of Culture celebration your invited downstairs to sit down and experience two video productions in the Buriel Clay Theater:

Black Dance Figures Today- A tribute to African American Dance figures. Enjoy an interactive slideshow that showcases African American dance artists from past to present. Meet the artists!

Discovering Cumbia- Watch a video documentary of students learning Afro-Colombian Cumbia folk dancing during a summer session at the African American Art & Culture Complex. Learn more!

Q/A Session & Prizes- Meet the artists win prizes! Ronnie Reddick and other Soaring Steps artists will be available to answer your questions while prizes are distributed to the community for attending this celebration.