You know you're in a dance class when your walking up the stairs to enter the dance space and all you hear is, "BOOM-CLAT-CLAT-TAT-BOOM-Tah-Tah-Clat" (instructors dialogue) YASSSS- and who do I see, non other than the renowned Terrence Green teaching his ankles off- You know today's gonna be a good day! If you missed Ohio Black Dance , it was this past Saturday and I am so glad that I was able to participate (again). This year I participated in the West African drum and dance class taught by Erin Berry. She taught a dance called Lamba, by way of Mali. Before the close of her class she also taught a different variation of this dance, Guinea style, called Guinea Lamba (I love this rhythm). Erin was such a well informed instructor who played no games.
"Catch these steps now, or you'll regret it when the drummers start!"
-Erin Berry
This year's Ohio Black Dance was packed with dancers from all levels and all genres of dance. It was completely welcoming and affordable, however the overall feeling that you walk away with is priceless. It is completely moving and powerful to be in a space where people of color are dancing and instructing genres of dance without the looks and stairs of not fitting the "mold" of what a dancer should look like. There were so many hues, ages, genders and curves it was just inspiring. The year's focus was titled, #BlackDanceMatters with classes ranging from Ballet to Hip Hop, but that's not it! The opening event included performances, a panel discussion, and if you buy the full package you will receive an invitation to the Festival reception, full access pass to all classes, luncheon and a copy of the group photo! Check out some footage from last year's event, featuring my and my husband's West African Dance company, GOREE Drum and Dance!
This year's line up of instructors was amazing and the genius behind this operation is Lawrence Lemon, get to know him and his powerful movement. I will continue to support him and Ohio Black Dance because #BlackDanceMatters. If you are in the area, I'll see you on the dance floor next year!
