Kenyettȧ Dance Company in collaboration with Phoenix Rising Dance Studio presents an exhilarating performance of art collage in honor of the rich culture and heritage of Black Dance. The program includes soul-stirring dance blended with live music and spoken words.
“Black Box Theory” opens with dance performances choreographed by Nicholas Owens and Lalah Hazelwood of Kenyettȧ Dance Company; Derek Reid, associate professor of dance of Butler University; and Justin Sears-Watson, an artistic director of Phoenix Rising Dance Studio and a dancer of Dance Kaleidoscope. The evening’s special guests, soul singer Bashiri Asad and spoken-word artist Tasha Jones, will add to the art of black excellence.
Through “Black Box Theory,” Kenyettȧ Dance Company’s goal is to speak of the current state of Black Dance, its relevance to society, lack of funding and support to keep the art form alive, as well as today’s racial issues.
“I believe ‘Black Box Theory’ is a very special way to acknowledge some of the difficulties we are facing as a society. It is not just an entertaining dance show. It will create a medium to discuss the rich culture of the Black Dance and our heritage, and propose solutions to the issues we are facing,” said Nicholas Owens, co-founder of Kenyettȧ Dance Company.
The performances will be at the IndyFringe Basile Theatre on March 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. with an additional performance on March 20 at 4:00 p.m. Those supporting the cause are encouraged to share their experiences using #BlackDanceMatters their respective social media platforms, Facebook (Kenyetta Dance) and Instagram (kenyetta_dance).
“We hope ‘Black Box Theory’ serves as an opportunity to open our eyes to see the things that really matter,” said Owens.
Each performance has limited seating with tickets available at the IndyFringe Box Office or on the Kenyettȧ Dance Company website. For more information, visit www.kenyettadance.com.
