At the end of June, my husband and I attended a spectacular performance at Arena Stage – “The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence.” In collaboration with the Phillips Collection, this show celebrates the bright and bold art of one of America’s most celebrated 20th Century painters, brought to life by the incredible dancers, singers, and musicians of Step Afrika!.
“The Migration” ended at Arena on July 12, but this award-winning company is based, and frequently performs, in the DC area, and it is worth learning about if you are not already familiar. (Every performance I’ve seen has been excellent.)
Step Afrika! was founded in 1994 by C. Brian Williams. It is the world’s leading authority on the art form of “stepping.” Stepping is a complex and synchronized style of dancing that involves clapping, body slapping, dramatic movements, and vocalizations. As explained on their website:
“Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, traditional African dances, and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience.”
Compelling, exhilarating, and exhausting (the audience, not the performers!) is how I would describe their performances. They combine dancing, singing, story-telling, humor, and audience participation with amazing energy and agility.
Photos sourced from www.stepafrika.org.
Step Afrika! is a non-profit organization. The company tours nationally and internationally and promotes stepping as an educational tool for young people, focusing on “teamwork, academic achievement, and cross-cultural understanding.”
You can tell I am a big fan! As are several of my neighbors who echo my sentiments. So, if you are looking for a joyful experience that can leave you smiling and maybe even with your heart pounding, check out Step Afrika! at www.stepafrika.org.
Pat Sugrue is an original owner, moving to Cameron Station with her husband Tom in the fall of 1999. She was a member of the first Compass Crew, and later served as Editor-in-Chief for nine years. Pat’s professional career was in advertising – 30+ years in ad agencies in every department except art (no talent at all!); but her favorite position was copywriter, which she felt made a good fit for The Compass. She warns that she is here to stay, regardless of the format!
Follow