Step Afrika!, Drumfolk
Friday, October 21, 2022 | 7:30 PM
Alice Jepson Theatre
Some of America’s most innovative and influential art has resulted from African Americans transcending oppression and discrimination to communicate their stories. Step Afrika!, the first professional dance company dedicated to the tradition of stepping, will build on that tradition with their newest work, Drumfolk, an exploration of the drum as an instrument of community, resilience, and determination.
Drumfolk is a rhythmic storytelling of the history of African American percussive traditions inspired by the Stono Rebellion of 1739 and the Negro Act of 1740. This work will explore this transformative moment in American history and honor the survival and evolution of a cultural ethos through rhythm, music, and dance. It features Step Afrika!’s first presentation of traditional masked dances from West Africa; a choreographic investigation of the ring shout, a 200-plus-year-old African American percussive dance rarely seen on American stages; and a contemporary work exploring the ways the drum was reclaimed through mediums such as stepping and vocal percussion.
Resource Materials
What Is Stepping by Step Afrika!
The Story of Step Afrika!, featuring founder and executive director C. Brian Williams
Engagement Opportunties
Pre-Performance Talk with Step Afrika! founder and executive director C. Brian Williams at 6:30 pm in the venue
Class visits, workshops, and discussions available with the company October 18-20. Email Shannon Hooker to arrange an activity for your students.
