DanceAfrica is a cultural explosion–vibrant, spectacular, magical and is one of the country’s largest festivals devoted to African dance. It is a yearly event that has been in existence since 1977 and held at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) during the Memorial Day weekend in New York City.
The borough comes alive with dance, music, food, splendor. There are theatrical presentations, film, musical concerts, lectures, and fashion is just every which way you look! Folks look so regal as they represent Mother Africa wearing garments that simply amaze. The outdoor bazaars are beautiful spectacles of African-inspired wares–jewelry, hats, clothing, artistic creations like art hangings and sculptures.
There are food selections for days and days at the festival that just boggle the mind. The come-hither aromas of cultural deliciousness just continuously make your mouth water!
The late Chuck Davis, a dancer, and choreographer who was widely regarded as America’s foremost master of African dance, created the sprawling, multiday communal celebration that has been reprised in several cities throughout the country.
We at 50BOLD.com want to share the visual beauty of this year’s DanceAfrica festival celebration. Our 50-plussers were out and about at the festival and they sure were representing!
All photos taken by Judyth Watson-Remy.