On Friday, February 3rd, the Weis Center for the Performing Arts was overflowing with students, faculty and staff, and community members all vying to see the world-renowned Step Afrika! – the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping. For 80 minutes, the audience clapped, chanted, and roared with excitement at the display of percussive dance styles that graced the stage.
Undoubtedly, this was a phenomenal way to kick-off Black History Month! More than just entertainment, Step Afrika! wove together songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation to showcase the history, contrast, and complementary nature of step and broader African dance traditions. Some examples include step as practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, and traditional west and southern African dances such as the riveting dance of the Zulu Nation and the poly-rhythmic South African gumboot dance.
If you found this performance exciting, make sure to attend the Black Student Union’s 12th annual Stomp Out Classic on Saturday, February 25th from 7:00-9:00 PM in the Weis Center for The Performing Arts. Hope to see you there!
– Ninah Jackson