May 2008

2008 Spring Season

Eddie Martinez, Inte,.,alactic Go Fish, 2007

BAM 2008 Spring Season is sponsored by: Bloomberg ENCOREThe Performing Arts Magazine 2008 Spring Season

Brooklyn Academy of Music

Alan H. Fishman William I. Campbell Chairman of the Board Vice Chairman of the Board

Karen Brooks Hopkins Joseph V. Melillo President Executive Producer

presents DanceAfrica 2008 Approximate Bridge to Cultural Rejuvenation & Enlightenment running time: two hours BAM Howard Gilman Opera House including one intermission May 23, 2008 at 7:30pm; May 24 at 2pm & 7:30pm; May 25 & 26 at 3pm

Artistic director Chuck Davis Lighting design William H. Grant III

Ceesay Kujabi and the Bachinab (The Gambia) Giwayen Mata (Atlanta) LaRocque Bey School of Dance Theatre, Inc. () and BAM/Restoration DanceAfrica Ensemble

Stage manager N’Goma Woolbright Assistant stage manager Normadien Woolbright Production stage manager Stephen Petrilli

BAM 2008 Spring Season is sponsored by Bloomberg.

Morgan Stanley is a major sponsor of DanceAfrica 2008, with additional support from Con Edison.

DanceAfrica 2008 and Sizwe Banzi Is Dead are part of Diverse Voices at BAM presented by Time Warner Inc.

Additional support for DanceAfrica 2008 is provided by Crunch, GGMC Parking, LLC., and New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Media and reception support is provided by Community Affairs Department.

BAM Dance receives major support from The Harkness Foundation for Dance and The SHS Foundation, with additional support from Mary L. Griggs & Mary Griggs Burke Foundation and / Makers Dance Foundation. Greetings from Baba Chuck Davis Chuck Davis. Photo: Julieta Cervantes A MESSAGE FROM BABA CHUCK DAVIS, Artistic Director, DanceAfrica 2008

Greetings,

DanceAfrica, in its 31st year, is now celebrated here in New York (produced by BAM); Washington, DC (sponsored by Carla Perlo and DancePlace); Dallas (sponsored by Mama Ann Williams and the Dallas Black Dance Theatre); and after a three-year absence, Chicago (with sponsorship by The DuSable Museum). Other cities are waiting on the horizon and soon there will be a DanceAfrica celebration somewhere every month. I am truly excited and thankful. And none of this would be happening were it not for the support of THE ALL MERCIFUL CREATOR, THE ANCESTORS, The Elders, and ALL OF YOU!!!!!!. I give thanks constantly for your presence and I pray for all to succeed in your chosen endeavors.

In this year, which marks the Brooklyn Bridge’s 125th anniversary, DanceAfrica features more of Africa’s cultural treasures. From the country of The Gambia comes Ceesay Kujabi and the Bachinab, which will join forces with our own BAM/Restoration DanceAfrica Ensemble under the direction of Sister Karen Thornton-Daniels. Mr. Ceesay’s high energy dancers and musicians have been working with my Cultural Arts Safari for the last five years and have constantly proved their ability to share knowledge of their Jola Culture. They will be supported by Giwayen Mata, an all female drum and dance ensemble, out of Atlanta; Harlem’s own LaRocque Bey School of Dance Theatre, Inc. (under the leadership of Jerome Hunter) will round out each spectacular performance.

DanceAfrica continues its recognition of the Elders’ role in our communities with tribute to Baba Montego Joe, who was one of my many mentors in the early 1960s.

I’m sure all of you will join me in thanking Capezio for presenting me with its 57th annual award for artistic excellence in the dance world. I wholeheartedly accept on behalf of Africa’s contribution to the world of art and culture.

And, once again I must render profound thanks to you DanceAfrica supporters who, each year, spring forth to recognize the contribution Africa has made, and will make, to recorded history. Thanks to BAM and its staff for never wavering to keep the best of the best in front of the public. Special thanks to Modou Joof, Abdul Daramy, and Omar Jasseh for assisting Bachinab on every level.

Baba Chuck Davis Program Bridge to Cultural Rejuvenation & Enlightenment

Griot Baba Chuck extends greeting and welcomes all to the dancing ground, where we honor the past in preparation for the future.

LaRocque Bey School of Dance Theatre Inc. Dancers: Children Eilish Gooney, Mecca Harris, Ameenah Hunter, Atia Willouby Adults Theresa Capers, Aimee Graham, Aisha Hawkins, Amanda Jackson, Meme Mickens, LaNiece Mobley, Daaimah Taalib-Din, Tamika Vashard Teens/Young Adults Shauna Gadsen, Sherelle Gadsen, Jasmine McFarlene, Artrese Reid, Starrene Rhette, Khadeejah Smith, Khadeerah Smith, Brianna Sultan, Jasmine Swain Elder Dancers Gerry Chisolm, Ericka Clark, LaSharn Cooper, Jenelle Garraway, Kendra Harris, Shirley Lewis, Maria Manderson, Chiniqua Reinaldo, Maisha Thompson, Heleina Williams Men Brother Jerome (Director), Anthony Bledso, Eddie Harris, Thomas Mitchell, Richard Nixon, Woza Drummers Johnny Bolling, Steve Christian, Suquan Hudson, Jerome Hunter Jr., Eddie Hunter, Malik Ross Owo The chant says “If you like the way I move, give me money.” Sinte’ Circumcision Dance Sorsornet A coming of age dance for younger people Manjiani A high energy festive celebration dance Kou Kou Fishing Dance DunDunba A men’s dance of strength and agility VooDoo Agoon represents LaRocque Bey—spirit world controls mortal world

Memorial To those from DanceAfrica, who have transitioned to the ancestral grounds, we will never forget you or your contributions to the world! Ase! Ase! Ase!

Giwayen Mata (Atlanta) Performers Rashida Abdullah, Ayana Cofer, Nicole El, Lindiwe Famadou, Tambra Harris, Sarahn Henderson, Sauda Jackson, Omelika Kuumba, Sami Ra Maati, Olokun Sae’oursoul, Tyree Thornton, Amamansa Whitten, Angelina Camara-Dixon (apprentice) Co-founder/artistic director Omelika Kuumba Co-founders Sarahn Henderson, Sauda Jackson, Sami Ra Maati Rehearsal director Tambra Harris Crew Akumba Bynum-Roberson, Lealah Henderson, Rae Ransom, Obasina Seve Adigun

May 23 Sorsoner This rite of passage dance from the Baga people of Guinea, West Africa assures the protec- tion of young female initiates as they learn the secrets and responsibilities of womanhood from their elder mothers, sisters, and aunties. It is performed after the harvest. Program

Bak/Siko These rhythms were taught to Omelika Kuumba by Senegalese Master Drummer, Ibrahima Camara. Using the drum, one of the first tools of communication, we play these rhythms to say, “Let’s get busy. It feels so good to be a woman!” Kuku Fifteen years ago, we debuted this rhythm on the stage in Spelman College’s historic Sisters Chapel. This high energy celebration dance of the Susu people of Guinea, West Africa has become our signature finale piece.

May 24 & 26, matinee—Puttin’ It All Together Manjani (Mendiani) is a celebration and initiation dance originating with the Bamana (Bambara) people who live in West African countries including Mali and Senegal. It is similar to Soli, known as a rhythm of rejoicing and welcome that is danced by young girls ranging from six to thirteen years old in northern Guinea, done in celebration and reminiscence of our youth; recalling the fun of street games or at parks with handclapping, hopscotch, double dutch, and more with a little ATL remix fo’ ya! Oh, to be young again! Lekule This funky rhythm created by Master Malinke Drummer, Mamady Keita, celebrates the beauty of a woman’s derriere. Kuku (see 5/23)

May 24, evening & May 25, matinee Ofele (excerpt) translates to mean “one who honors her parents.” In the Ivory Coast, Ofelina are people who have lost one or more parents. When Jelalu Zauli was a little girl, after her mother died she continued to live with her father and stepmothers. After her father’s death, her stepmothers, family, and community began to treat her poorly. She eventually left home. While on her journey, she experienced tremendous difficulties. She prayed for the Creator to make things better. During her sleep she dreamed of becoming a great drummer and dancer. She finally found Bantifila village, but initially the people there shunned her too. Eventually their harsh actions pierced their hearts, making them remorseful. Their remorse led them to Jelalu and to embrace her into their hearts and community and help manifest her dreams. The excerpt opens with one of Jelalu’s dreams as a celebrated drummer. It is followed by the Ofele dance. Zauli Zauli is from the Gorou people of the Ivory Coast. Kuku (see 5/23)

—Intermission—

May 23: Capezio Award Presentation May 25, matinee: Honoring Elder Montego Joe

Ceesay Kujabi and the Bachinab (The Gambia) Dancers Fatou Badjie, Mam Jarrah Colley, Teeda Colley, Amie Jarju, Gibril Jarju, Omar Jarju, Pa Modou Joof, Safiatou Kolley, Ceesay Kujabi, Malang Kujabi, Mariama Sanneh, Luntanding Sanyang Musicians Saikouba Badjie, Mustapha Jarju, Gibril Jarju, Sekou Kolley, Sana Sambou, Mariama Sanneh

Soffora The unity, commitment, and co-operation among members of a Jola, or any community, is shown in this work. Danced to the accompaniment of the Bougarabou Drums (played by one man), this dance is presented for a general audience so they can change negative attitudes to positive. Program Giwayen Mata The Boutushab The Jola Elders of this village sit in discussion and decide the time for the KANBAJAK (young men) to be taken to the bush for their initiation. They are accompanied, up to a point, by the village women who sing and dance to help ease the tension and fear of what is about to happen. This event occurs about every 20 years. Saroo Dance People from surrounding communities will come together at the Bantaba (dancing ground) and dance for peace. High energy is the spirited hallmark of this dance.

with

BAM/Restoration DanceAfrica Ensemble Dancers Markita Agard, Mohammed Ali, Nayilah Antoine, Camille Bailey, Kourtney Charles, Alyssa Cloud, Danielle D’Avilar, Sara DeBerry, Kishana Flenory, Brittany Grier, Thea Grier, Shaniya Hyndman, Qahirah Kibler, Elexus Knox, Monique Lalanne, Lavasia Lawton*, Ashley London, Lauren Miller, Melissa Moore, Adrian Nelson-Daniels, Jadeah Norris, Jasmine Poole*, Diamond Roach, Valencia Springer, Nailah Walthour. *2008 Scripps Scholarship Winners

Finale All DanceAfrica participants join Baba Chuck Davis

May 23: Scripps Scholarship Presentation 2008 Recipients: Kirin L. Davis, Shatavia S. Green, Lavasia D. Lawton, Jasmine R. Poole Who’s Who

Chuck Davis (artistic director and founding William H. Grant III (lighting designer) has Elder) is one of the foremost teachers and designed lighting for dance, theater, and opera choreographers of traditional African dance in throughout the US, Europe, Africa, Asia, and America and has traveled extensively in Africa South America. In the US, he has designed to study with leading African artists. Davis extensively for the Alliance Theatre Company, founded the Chuck Davis Dance Company in Milwaukee Repertory Theater Company, in 1968 and the African Ameri- North Short Music Theatre, Melting Pot can Dance Ensemble in Durham, North Caroli- Theatre Company, Philadelphia Drama Guild, na in 1983. He has been a panelist for several Cleveland Playhouse, Theatre Virginia, and the programs of the National Endowment for the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. His designs Arts and is a recipient of the AARP Certificate have appeared at the Kennedy Center for the of Excellence, the North Carolina Dance Alli- Performing Arts where he designed Dreams ance Award, the 1990 North Carolina Artist and Pearl (nominated for the 2003 NAACP Award, and the North Carolina Order of the Theatre Award for Best Lighting), written, cho- Long Leaf Pine. Since 1991, at the request reographed, and directed by Debbie Allen and of the governor, he has served on the board at the Geffen Playhouse, where he designed of the North Carolina Arts Council, and in Harriet’s Return starring Allen, and Pearl. 1992 he received the North Carolina Award in On Broadway, he has designed the landmark Fine Arts, the state’s highest honor. In 1996, all-African American production of Cat On a Chuck Davis and his African American Dance Hot Tin Roof, directed by Allen and starring Ensemble were awarded a $100,000 grant , Phylicia Rashad, Terrence from the National Dance Residency Program, Howard, and Anika Noni Rose. Grant has a three-year initiative launched in 1994 by designed for the American Dance the NY Foundation for the Arts and funded Theater, , and was by the Pew Charitable Trusts. Professional resident lighting designer for Philadanco for 28 awards include a Monarch, a “Bessie,” and years. He is the recipient of the 2003 IRNE a “BAMmie.” In 1998, Davis was awarded a (Independent Reviewers of New England) doctorate from Medgar Evers College and spe- award for best lighting for Pacific Overtures cial honors from Duke University for his work directed by Kent Gash at the North Shore in promoting dance across the US. Chuck Music Theatre in Beverly, MA, and the 2007 Davis/DanceAfrica were named to Dance Heri- Suzi Bass Award for Outstanding LIghting tage Coalition’s list of “America’s Irreplaceable Design for Elliot, a Soldier’s Fugue, directed Dance Treasures: The First 100.” In 2004, by Gash for the Alliance Theatre Company. He Davis received a prestigious Dance Magazine taught lighting design at City College of New Award in honor of his many achievements, York, and is the author of A Basic Handbook and this April was honored at the Kennedy of Stage Lighting. Grant has his own harp Center in the week-long celebration, “Masters repair service and is principal harpist with the of African-American Choreography.” In 2006, Broadway Bach Ensemble. Baba Chuck received an Honorary Masters from Williams College, Williamstown, MA, N’Goma Woolbright (stage manager) is a where he was the commencement speaker. native of Jacksonville, FL. He began his career He also received the 2006 Balasaraswati/Joy as a stage manager in 1968 with the Chuck Ann Dewey Beinecke Chair for Distinguished Davis Dance Company, where he ultimately Teaching at the at became technical director. He has worked Duke University, Durham, NC. with several dance companies in and around Who’s Who New York City. Until recently, he was the tech- Giwayen Mata nical director for the dance company Forces of (“Elephant Leaders Of Women”) Nature. Woolbright’s credits include Lyon and Founded in 1993 by ten daring women of the Jewel, Frankenstein’s Rib, The Greatest African descent, Giwayen Mata’s mission is of all Times, and Muhammed Wait for Me. He “to celebrate the lives of women and up- has been stage manager for DanceAfrica since its lift our communities and our planet, while inception in 1977. perpetuating the cultures of Africa and the African Diaspora through the study, creation, Normadien Woolbright (assistant stage teaching, and presentation of artistic media manager) is a graduate of the Performing Arts including dances, rhythms, songs, poetry, High School, holds a BA in dance education and prose around the world.” Giwayen Mata from Lehman College, and has studied with (pronounced ghee-wah-yen mah-tah) is a Chuck Davis since her teens. She became Hausa term that means “Elephant Women.” artistic director of the Chuck Davis Dance It is the title given to women who are leaders Company when Davis relocated to North of women’s organizations. Giwayen Mata Carolina, and moved to Durham in 1989. She has been wowing audiences and students of now serves as road manager and director of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds with educational projects for the African American drum and dance classes, workshops, and Dance Ensemble. She remains active in the performances that are entertaining, energetic, field of dance through teaching, performing, thought-provoking, empowering, interactive, and participating in school residencies. and educational. Audiences from around the country are often moved to their feet and Ceesay Kujabi and the Bachinab people speak enthusiastically about how their The group Bachinab was formed in 1982 experiences go beyond movement, sight, by Ceesay Kujabi, whose performance skills, and sound. Individual members of the group exuberance, and professionalism propelled have also performed and taught in Germany, him from the ranks of the Gambian National , London and Ghana. In giving Giwayen Dance Troupe to become its premier dancer. Mata its first of three “Creative Loafing Best Of After touring nationally and internationally, Atlanta Awards” for Best World Music Group, Kujabi decided to share what he had learned critic Roni Sarig wrote, “to call this all female with those young people back home, who as- group a band is a severe understatement. pired to follow in his footsteps. Now boasting They are more like an event.” some of The Gambia’s most talented artists, whose combined talents have won countless LaRocque Bey School of Dance Theatre, awards including the coveted President’s Tro- Inc. was established by the late LaRocque phy (2007), Bachinab features the Akonting, Bey in the Harlem community in 1960. It is which has been researched and found to be the oldest African dance school in the US. the grand ancestor of the world popular banjo. The school offered dance classes in traditional This group is also the company in residence African Dance for as little as 25 cents per for Baba Chuck Davis’ Cultural Arts Safari that lesson in the Harlem-based Lincoln Projects makes an annual trip to The Gambia to study 48 years ago.Today, under the direction of music and the origins of many dance styles Brother Jerome Hunter, (LaRocque Bey’s popular around the world. High energy is the nephew) the school continues to provide rule and not the exception. cultural enrichment to an economically Who’s Who

depressed community. In 1967, the school was incorporated as a nonprofit, tax exempt organization. Since its inception, the school has taught well over 15,000 students and have trained many students that have appeared in Broadway productions, as well as television and movies. The LaRocque Bey School of Dance has worked with various people such as , Otis Redding, Debbie Allen, George Clinton, Phylicia Rashad, Savion Glover, and others. The school offers a very unique opportunity for children, teens, adults, and seniors to experience structured classes like body sculpting and toning, African

dance, tap, ballet, , 2008, acrylic. DanceAfrica 2008 Visual Artist. dance, aerobics, and drumming to all ages. Culture and art, as well as keeping the legacy and fiery

energy of LaRocque Bey alive, will Dancing the Drum continue to be the school’s focus, as well as to challenge young minds. We inspire all generations

from youth to seniors, spreading Donovan Nelson. dance, music, visual arts, creative writing, our cultural message to multiple and study of the cultural histories of Africa ethnicities around the world. and the African Diaspora, this year focusing on The Gambia. Composed of talented young BAM/Restoration DanceAfrica Ensemble dancers, the BAM/Restoration DanceAfrica Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation Ensemble are students from Bedford Stuyves- and BAM have been partners in a youth ant Restoration Corporation’s Youth Arts development effort with DanceAfrica as its Academy where the dancers receive intensive focus. An annual favorite as well as a symbol training in ballet, modern, African, and con- of youth involvement in the preservation temporary dance. Observing its 40th anniver- of African heritage, the BAM/Restoration sary this year, Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration DanceAfrica Ensemble returns for its twelfth Corporation’s mission is to be the catalyst for year. In that time, more than 3,400 students the progressive improvement of the quality have taken part in professional caliber work- of life for the people of Bedford Stuyvesant shops. The BAM/Restoration DanceAfrica by utilizing every avenue available to foster initiative encourages participants to express growth and development through economic, themselves around a common theme through cultural, educational, and social ventures. 2008 Honoree Montego Joe Montego Joe is a native of the Caribbean and is well known in the music world as one of the fore- most Afro-Caribbean percussion- ist. His professional performance experience spans six decades and geographies that include the US, Europe, Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. He has performed in such wide-ranging venues as Caesar’s Palace (Las Vegas), Newport Jazz Festival (RI), the Vil- lage Gate, and Carnegie Hall (both in NYC). He has made television appearances on The Tonight Show, and on The David Frost Show and The Show. He has worked with and recorded with such artists as The Fifth Dimen- sion, , , Dizzy Gillespie, , Abbey Lincoln, and . He has been written up in The New York Times, The New Yorker, Variety, and other publications. With a vast reservoir of knowledge about the history and meaning of Afro-Caribbean music and impeccable technique, Montego has much to share. He is an instructor at Medgar Evers College and the Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation Center for Arts and Culture.

DanceAfrica 2008 Council of Elders Senior Elders Mama Rahkiah Eason Mama Amy Olatunji Mama Hajja Rahkiah Mama Linda Evans Baba Joseph Placide Abdurahman Baba Leslie Gray Baba Wali Rahman Baba Lee Abramson Mama Deborah Gray Mama Andara Primus-Rahman Mama Doris Green Baba Jonathan Robinson Elders Mama Akua Ishangi Mama Esmeralda Simmons, Mama Kumali Abramson Baba William Matthews Esq. Baba Yomi Awolowo Mama Adowa Brown Muchita Baba K. Mensah Wali Mama Carol Awolowo Mama Katunge Mimy Mama Lynette White Baba Al Carter Baba Montego Joe Mama Pearl White Mama Jackie Coban Mama Madeline Yayodele Baba Chuck Davis Nelson Who’s Who Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation President, Colvin W. Grannum Centerstage Drummers Executive VP/COO, Dyrnest K. Sinckler Baba O. Wali Rahman Senior VP, Organizational Development and Dellwyn Gilkes Programs, Tracey Capers Festival Drummers Center for Arts and Culture Tra-Bi Lizie Lisa Yancey, Interim Executive Director Brother Ramon Rahman Jako Barron, Program Manager Jay Hooper, Program Associate/Gallery Assistant Visual Arts Krystal Brown, Graphic Designer Saeeda Banks Derick Cross Center for Arts and Culture—Youth Arts Academy Peggy Alston, Director Creative Writing Sabine M. LaFortune, Program Manager Angeli Rasbury Edna Fulton, Bursar/Registrar Costumes Madupe Kuti, Intern June Terry, Costume Mistress Centerstage Debbie Garrett Karen Thornton-Daniels, Artistic Director Rose Mitchell Elaina Lanier Festival Dance Instructors Simone Knox Mamadou Dahoue, Instructor Mama Andara Primus-Rahman, Instructor Photography Lem Peterkin, Photographer Arts in Action Naeema Brown, Instructor Christopher White (a.k.a. Sweat), Instructor Johnnie Godette, Jr.—Sr. Program Coordinator/Site Supervisor—Wingate—CASA LaQisha Jackson—Program Coordinator— The After-School Corporation (TASC)

BAM/Restoration Samanta Cave Romana Hasim Chatherine Lorisme DanceAfrica Ashley Charles Kaia Hawkins Cassidy Louis Education Program Cashmere Clark Keyanna Haynes Khalid Martin Participants Adia Clarke Zion Henderson Kianna McKoy Isoken Agho Atiya Clarke Neshaun Henry Jamila McDonald Shanaes Akhtar Raean Clarke Yulan Hibbert Camille Moore Asiyah Ali Lloyd Coward Jr. Alexus Holton Khalil Morain Naimah Ali Niamke D’Avilar Dylan Hurley Tamara Mouzon Johana Bastien Yamika Davis Maranda Hutley Colby Myers Johann Bastien Danielle Dayes Hadiyah Hyppolite Shadae Nisbett Daniel Beckford Daberline Denis Joseph Jahrodd Ajanece O’Neil Jadah Best Breeyah Dozier David James Jermain Ofori Ashley Black Kiah Dozier Amber John Camille Petinaud Tiani Bonadie Myiesha Drobkin Deandra Johns Wynell Pompey Beverly Boney Lakisha Eliacin Kaitlin Jones Aziza Pope Devante Bonham Radcheida Ewing Jahrell Joseph Shaquille Ramsay Nathan Braithwaite Syandene Feliciano Jahrodd Joseph Reicland Rayson Dierdre Brock Diamond Forbes Toshanna Kendall Jayla Reid Antasia Brown Juanika Fordyce Shannys King Joseph Riddick Kaisa Brown Zipporah Fraser Bria Knox Tremayne Rollins Britney Bryan Ikira Gadsden Madupe Kuti Rhoda-Mae Rougier Alexus Byfield David Garcia Kentaysha Lane Jason St. Fort Shanice Byfield Mikayla Gayle Ameer Lausell Laini Sayles Hadiyah Cameron Saliyah George Jahson Lausell Jahnee Singletary Megan Campbell Renard Harris Telija Lezama Catherine Smalling Shante Carrington Sequoia Harris Amir Loftis Bria Smith Who’s Who

Gina Smith DanceAfrica Nana Adowa Aforiwaa Nana Osunyomi Tianna Smith 2008 Artist Jamila Bey Afolabi-Sarpong Ashley Spalding Donovan Nelson Nana Opare Biea Nana Opare Yao Mylynn Spears John Flynn Dinizulu Danielle Steele Memorial List John Blandford Yao Odum Meek Thomas To those who have Charles Abramson Rita D’Adamo Tianna Thomas passed on to the ances- Denise Delapenza Mama Adlyn M. Irwin Jorven Thoope tral grounds, we will not Bill Moore Charles E. Inniss Shareece Thorne forget you or your contri- Raymond Taylor Jonathan Schenker Ymani Thorne butions to the world. Earl Mack Mama Pearl Devin Thorpe Ase! Ase! Ase! Alyo Tolbert Omowale Primus Amika Tobin Ethel Watkins-Davis Noni Olaniyan Olukose Wiles Nyomie Torres Assadata Dafora Michael Schwartz Lucille Ellis Shoniah Torres Ismay Andrews Peter Tumbleston Tommy Gomez Jataye Turner Alfonse Cimbe Loremil Machado Talley Beatty Jiya Turner Joe Commodore Kevin McDonald Queen Mother Ya-Asanti Velez Moses Mims Denton Melville Adley Moore Aleah Waksor Ruby Pryor Robert Bob LaPrince Betty Carter Shane Washington Phillips Stamps Dave Roberson Tony Davis Emani White Aquasiba Derby Nancy Quinn Iyalu Opeodu Chantey Williams Jerome Jeffries LeRoy Radcliff Baba Wilbert Linton David Williams Lavinia Williams Keith Simmons Mama Sandy Royster Jaquannah Wiliiams Madrina Assencion Djbril Traoure Nana Yoa Bonsue Jamila Wright Serrano Osa Unko Jimi Williams Amanqua Syvilla Forte Marion Cooper, Jr. Vernon Brandon Bey BAM/Restoration Thelma Hill Oscar Beau Brown III Robert Boyd DanceAfrica Ensemble Early Scott LaRocque Bey Bro. Abu Shabazz Listed in program Bettina Bancroft Robert Hudson Bro. Arthur Maddox section Ayodele Elaine Leonard Anthony Mama Annie Davis Beener Joseph Solomon Deas Baba Djimo Kouyate Candlebearers Jamila Bey Tony Williams Papa Ladji Camara Naja Brathwaite* Percival Borde Stanley Mamadi Richard B. Fisher Malik Camara Falumi Prince Tarzer Brother Mishak Sillam Enyasha Daniel* Halika Harriet Clegge Scobey Stroman Bob Riordan Mama DeBorah Davis- Al Perryman Dr. Betty Shabazz Malaika Holman Bermiss Gray Aaron Baxter Abdul Rahman Francina Yalewa Lindia Dugue Ronnie Pratt Mama Ince Osunlebo Kendrick Patricia Dye-Asante Priscilla Taylor Ralph Dorsey Hodari Burkett Desteni Edwards* Ron Taylor Tessie Williams Zoie Forster* Michelle Fennell Alex Haley Council of Elders Avril Gause * Mama Mary Gray Gloria Jackson Baba Walter P. Brown Khadija George* Abdoulah Hakim Charles Moore Baba Hajji Bilal Cimone N. Graves Ted Holiday Scobey Mitchell Abdurahman Papa Leslie Gray Clinton Jackson Jacqueline Armstrong Nana Opare Yao Hanan Hameen Yusef Imam Gregory Myles DeJean Dinizulu Arisa Ingram Mrs. King Baba Dele Papa Scuddie McGee Francie Johnson Eddie Spencer Bernard Johnson Mama Sarah McGee Tamara Jolly* Kofi Nkrumah Kolawole Balogun Baba Mzee Moyo Joy Kamamu Afinya Odak Ron Love Baba M.B. Olatunji Daryl Lobban Larry Phillips Mama KeKe Baba Kwame Ishangi Kamu Mimy Pearl Reynolds James McCoy Baba Chief Bey Sabuna Mimy Tommy Johnson Evelyn “Jessie” Mama Barbara Bey Amber Payne * Aaron Frazier Williams Baba Joe Nash Nia Pittman* Ray Hurrey Lester Wilson Mama Mary Umolu Nia Stephens* Cheryl Zincke Morris Mama Willie Wilson Baba Luther Nakia Vieira William MacPhearson Sarah Frederick Sulaimaan Wilson James Yarborough Micheal Peters Alvin Ailey *Restoration Students Bubacar Niang James Butler Doug Allan MAY 29—JUNE 8

11 DAYS OF FILMS STRAIGHT FROM THE 2008 SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL, MUSIC, THEATER, AND ART For the third year, Sundance Institute has packed up and is moving into BAM with 22 features and 36 short fi lms from the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, lively music concerts, Q&As with the artists, art installations, and more. The series kicks off May 29 with a screening of the documentary American Teen, followed by a free Opening Night Prom Party.

Tickets on sale April 26 at BAM.org /Sundance BAM, Peter Jay Sharp Building, 30 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn

Presenting Sponsors: Leadership Sponsor: Sustaining Sponsor:

SUNDANCE CHANNEL 57th CAPEZIO DANCE AWARD to Charles “Chuck” Davis

Opening Address Anthony Giacoio

President, Capezio Ballet Makers Dance Foundation

Award Presentation

Friday, May 23, 2008 Brooklyn Academy of Music Brooklyn, New York The Capezio Ballet Makers Dance Foundation, a philanthropic organization funded by the premier worldwide dance footwear and apparel manufacturer, Capezio Ballet Makers, proudly announces the selection of Charles “Chuck” Davis as the 57th recipient of the Capezio Dance Award.

Awarded annually since 1952, the Capezio Dance Award celebrates significant contributions to American dance by an individual, company or institution. It recognizes those who bring respect, stature and distinction to dance and who exhibit qualities such as innovation, creativity and imagination. Chuck Davis has spent his life achieving and virtually redefining these ideals with the brilliance of his artistry and his mission to preserve the finest traditions of African music and dance.

Chuck Davis began his formal training with classes in the dance and drama departments of Howard University. As his skill progressed he polished his timing and technique under the guidance of Eleo Pomare, and Thelma Hill.

In 1967 the Chuck Davis Dance Company was established at the South Bronx Community Action Theatre. In 1977 the Chuck Davis Dance Company presented its work at the Brooklyn Academy of Music on a stage designed to resemble an African village. This event launched the festival that has become DanceAfrica – an annual celebration of African and African American dance.

In 1980 Chuck Davis returned home to North Carolina's American Dance Festival in Durham. After four years of performances at the ADF a richly talented group had developed from the community of local dancers and the African American Dance Ensemble was born. Davis continues to nurture and lead the Ensemble on its course in becoming one of the premier dance companies touring the world today.

Chuck Davis is the recipient of countless awards and honorary doctorates including the North Carolina Award in Fine Arts, the Brooklyn Academy of Music Award, the New York Bessie Award, the Dance Magazine Award and, most recently, an honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from Williams College. Chuck Davis continues to perform with the African American Dance Ensemble, in addition to undertaking guest artist directorships and developing the choreography for numerous commissioned projects. He is the founder and director of the Cultural Arts Safari, an annual pilgrimage to Africa which allows the Ensemble and other heritage performers to experience influential cultural sites first hand. It is this extraordinary celebration of legacy and innovation, his unwavering dedication to his craft, his life long commitment to dancers' professional growth and his audience's enlightenment that has secured Chuck Davis the well earned recognition and status as recipient of the Capezio Dance Award for 2008.

As the 57th recipient of the Capezio Dance Award, Chuck Davis joins dance luminaries Alvin Ailey, , Charles Reinhart, Savion Glover, Suzanne Farrell, and last year’s recipient, Carmen de Lavallade. The Capezio Ballet Makers Dance Foundation is dedicated to promoting dance appreciation as an art form and – in addition to the Award – makes annual grants to national, regional, state and local culture organizations, programs and projects.

Photo courtesy of Diane Davis CAPEZIO DANCE AWARD RECIPIENTS

1952 Zachary Solov 1973 Isadora Bennett 1990 Jacques d'Amboise 1953 1974 Robert Joffrey 1991 John Curry 1954 Doris Humphrey 1975 Robert Irving Darci Kistler 1955 Louis Horst 1976 Igor Youskevitch 1956 Genevieve Oswald 1977 1992 Frederic Franklin 1957 Ted Shawn 1978 Hanya Holm 1993 Dance/ USA 1958 Alexandra Danilova 1979 Alvin Ailey 1994 Urban Bush Women 1959 Sol Hurok 1980 Walter Terry 1995 Bruce Marks 1960 Martha Graham 1981 Dorothy Alexander 1996 Charles L. Reinhart 1961 Ruth St. Denis 1982 Alwin Nikolais 1997 Mark Morris 1962 Barbara Karinska 1983 Harvey Lichtenstein 1998 Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival 1963 Donald McKayle 1984 William Christensen 1999 Bella Lewitzky 1964 Jose Limon Harold Christensen 2000 David White 1965 Maria Tallchief Lew Christensen 2001 Career Transitions for Dancers 1966 1985 Doris Hering 2002 Michael M. Kaiser 1967 Paul Taylor 1986 Antony Tudor 2003 Alvin Ailey American 1968 Lucia Chase 1987 Fred Astaire Dance Theater 1969 John Martin 2004 Savion Glover 1970 William Kolodney Rudolf Nureyev 2005 Suzanne Farrell 1971 Jac Venza 2006 1972 La Meri, Reginald & 1988 Charles "Honi" Coles 2007 Carmen de Lavallade Gladys Laubin 1989 Edward Villella 2008 Charles “Chuck” Davis

Established in 1952, the CAPEZIO DANCE AWARD is presented annually in recognition of significant contributions to dance in the United States. The award is presented to an individual, a company or an institution and is accompanied by a $10,000 honorarium. Highly regarded by the dance community for its prestige and pragmatic value, the CAPEZIO DANCE AWARD is presented at a ceremony honoring the awardee.

TRUSTEES CAPEZIO BALLET MAKERS DANCE FOUNDATION

Lawrence Freedman, Anthony Giacoio, Donald Terlizzi Michael Terlizzi, Nicholas P. Terlizzi, Jr Alfred S. Terlizzi, 1939 - 1998

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jane Remer thanks

Media sponsor for DanceAfrica 2008 BAM salutes

Presenting sponsor for KaBAM Arts Education Program for Grades K-8 Samuel H. Scripps BAM Scholarship Fund

BAM is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2008 Samuel H. Scripps BAM Scholarships. The one- to four-year scholarships are designed to help select students achieve the goal of higher education in theater or dance by paying a portion of the cost of attendance at an accredited institution. Recipients were all participants in BAM’s arts education programs at some point between kindergarten and 12th grade. They exemplify the mission and goals of BAM’s arts education program, which is dedicated to broadening horizons and opening dialogues by bringing the most vibrant, exciting artists and their creations from around the world to the young people of New York City.

2008 winners: Kirin L. Davis Shatavia S. Green Lavasia D. Lawton Jasmine R. Poole

This special program honors the memory of former BAM Trustee Sam Scripps, a world-traveler and devout arts patron who not only worked in theater, but also generously supported dance and theater throughout his lifetime.

For more information on the Samuel H. Scripps BAM Scholarship Fund and to find out how to apply for 2009 scholarship awards, please visit BAM.org/Scripps.

Photo by Jonathan Barth to BAM Work all day then come benefits for your company employees, including*: Join today and gain access to awide variety ofcultural performance tickets (excluding one) tickets performance price-class mainstage theater, dance, music, and opera a15% Your receive employees on discount *Depending on level on *Depending goals. your meet to designed packages sponsorship customized discuss to us law. Contact membershipCorporate begins at $5,000 annually. All contributions are deductible tax to the extent allowed by 718.636.4131 /[email protected] /BAM.org join to company your Convince • • Movie passes BAMbucks

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BAM Corporate Partners! Corporate BAM play... • • todistribute tickets toemployees wins a pair of tickets and food &drink passes and wins food apair tickets of month, onecompany Each employee Cultural Ticket complimentary 50 Your company receives

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Photo of Ellen Lauren and Barney O’Hanlon by Michael Brosilow the power of green SWITCH TO ONLINE BILL PAYING AND PAPERLESS BANK STATEMENTS.

We salute BAM and proudly support DanceAfrica.

Con Edison. ON IT. www.coned.com/thepowerofgreen BAM Dance Africa2008 Funders

Major sponsor for DanceAfrica 2008:

DanceAfrica 2008 and Sizwe Banzi is Dead are part of Diverse Voices at BAM presented by:

Additional support for DanceAfrica 2008:

Crunch GGMC Parking, LLC. New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Media sponsor for DanceAfrica 2008:

The DanceAfrica Education Program is conducted in collaboration with Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation. Support for the program is provided by Charles Hayden Foundation, Buck Family Foundation, and M&T Bank.

Valuable support for BAM’s Arts Education Programs is provided by HSBC Bank USA, N.A.

Additional endowed support for DanceAfrica is provided by the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Endowment Fund for Community, Educational, and Public Affairs Programs at BAM.

Beverages and Ice Cream courtesy of: IZZE Sparkling Juice Blue Marble Ice Cream for supporting the school-time performance of DanceAfrica 2008 through the HSBC Bank USA, N.A. grant for BAM Arts Education Programs Planning for the future at BAM

BAM celebrates 150 years of artistic presentation in 2011.

Please help us secure the next 150 years by making a provision for BAM in your estate plans. You can choose from a variety of options, including making a bequest in your will, naming BAM as a benefi ciary in your retirement plan or insurance policy, and more.

For more information, please contact Denis Azaro in the BAM Planning Offi ce at 718.636.4138 x2. All inquiries will remain strictly confi dential.