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Once Again, It's Time for A Dance Revolution

 The world of dance is approaching the height of an Arts era that has not been experienced since the very fresh arrival of Mikhail Baryshnikov's beauty and brilliance on United States soil. Just reading about the times and the likes of him, Judith Jamison and even others before them; I become inspired all over again. It's really such a wonderful way to imagine dancing, in a world that has no choice but to welcome dance's force and impact, through the lens of brilliant artists who took a chance on themselves for the love of the art. It was brave! Those historic moments took the world, various industries alike, by storm. And for the first time ever, I am over the moon with excitement that a time such as that has come around again.  I never knew what I was waiting on. Beyond the work I've done, classes I've taken, shows I've performed in, there came a point where I wanted something to change. I wanted more. Then, suddenly, I knew something was brewing but couldn...
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Stop Expecting "A Black Version"

 

Does art need to be made palatable for black people? Are black artists held captive to the expectation of "blackifying" their art? Are black artist only valuable when their art represents black culture?

The other week I had to take a beat as I sat in conversation with someone who excitedly asked me if I would dance at their showcase before proposing that I not do ballet as to not "bore the people". Instead they asked me if I could do "hip hop ballet". I neglected to tell them that I have no clue what that is. A little later on I pondered that exchange and had many questions.

This piece will serve as more of a critical thinking platform and I invite you to indulge. Why is a black artists' art only highly validated within our on community when it is "made black"? That conversation made me feel at crossroads within my own craft. 

Why does this expectation fuel us (perhaps, the majority) to live within our art as if it is the only way to engage truthfully? You aren't a sell out or less effective if you choose your art for the sake of having a passion for it. There are a few themes that validate art. What do you think they are? Don't allow anyone to cuff you to your race or culture, alone. Don't allow anyone to make you feel at a crossroads because your art isn't "black enough". 

I appreciate your heartfelt art. The world needs it. 



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