““Black Renaissance” Dance-Filled Programs Celebrating the Influences of Black Culture
March 6, 2021The AAA Dance Theater collaborated with Google Arts & Culture and Youtube Originals in coming up with with a dance-filled specials called “Black Renaissance” The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater project began streaming last February 26, 2021, as part of the celebration and commemoration of Black cultural figures and innovators whose pioneering works have made important contributions in the worlds of art, music, dance, politics and social media.
Together with the Howard University Graduate Film Program, and NAL Media, commercial choreographer Jose “Hollywood” Ramos, alongside famous digital content creators Yung BBQ, Donté Colley and a host of other creative contributors, have produced dance specials that underscore the breadth and depth of Black dancers’ contributions to culture at large.
Funding for the project was by way of a grant awarded by the #YoutubeBlack Voices Fund, to carry out the fund contributors’ commitment to invest in narratives that highlight the authenticity, joy, dignity, and intellectual power of Black voices. Moreover, the #YouTube Black Voices Fund plans to acquire more Youtube Originals that focus on different Black experiences, including those pertaining to racial injustice.
Initial List of Guests Who will Be Featured
The initial lineup of guests include Destiny’s Child’s former member Kelly Rowland; Childish Gambino’s “This is America ” choreographer Sherrie Silver; former Quibi “Centerpiece” host, Maurice Harris and roller skater Oumi Janta.
Also appearing are Fatima Robinson and Elladj Baldé, well-known figures in social media platforms Instagram and TikTok for their combo performances of figure skating and dance.
Visual artist Shantell Martin known for his 2019 Art Series in collaboration with New York City Ballet, will also be featured in one of the specials.
Political luminaries Barack and Michelle Obama and Stacey Abrams will also grace the “Black Renaissance” streamed dance special programs