Founded in 1970 and led by trailblazer Joan Myers Brown, out of a need for training and opportunities for African American dancers, The Philadelphia dance company affectionately known as PHILADANCO, is at the forefront of innovative dance, bringing a creative merger of dance styles including classical ballet and modern dance while preserving African American traditions in dance. Representing an amalgamation of people from diverse communities, a myriad of company support systems and intensive training, it enables dancers to develop their talent and refine their technical skills making PHILADANCO one of the most sought-after modern American dance companies.
The company’s founder and artistic director Joan Myers Brown is an instrumental leader in the national and international arts communities. In 2013 Joan was awarded National Medal of the Arts, the highest civic honour of the United States of America for excellence in the arts. President Barack Obama cited Ms. Brown for carving out “an artistic haven for African American dancers and choreographers to innovate, create, and share their unique visions with the national and global dance communities.”
The company present an exciting mixed bill of acclaimed work.
Between the Lines, choreographed by Francisco Gella, illustrates architectural flare with more than a hint of romanticism while drawing influences from the classical idiom.
Super 8! from choreographer Ray Mercer is an acknowledgement of everyday experiences and relationships, from romantic love, to bonds between brothers and the importance of community.
Movement for 5 is inspired by the events surrounding “The Central Park Five”, five young men living in Harlem in 1989, falsely accused and imprisoned for 14 years. Choreographer Dawn Marie Bazemore cuts to the social landscape.
Enemy behind the Gates is a furioso of movement, choreographed by Christopher L. Huggins, this piece is inspired by enemies that are within our midst. Who is enemy and who is friend?
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