The history of African-American social dance - Camille A. Brown
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Why do we dance? African-American social dances started as a way for enslaved Africans to keep cultural traditions alive and retain a sense of inner freedom. They remain an affirmation of identity and independence. In this electric demonstration, packed with live performances, choreographer, educator and TED Fellow Camille A. Brown explores what happens when communities let loose and express themselves by dancing together.
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Additional Resources for you to Explore
The educator of this lesson has a wonderful site that will further inspire you to learn more about social dance. Take a look here.
History does really connect with culture through social dance. Here are two amazing references from Camille A. Brown that illustrate those connections. Black Girl: Linguistic Play and Mr. TOL E. RANCE. Both guides were created by Heather McCartney.
Interested in seeing a video clip from Mr. TOL E RANCE? Watch: Camille A. Brown's Mr. TOL E. RAncE "reel talk.” There is also A TEDx Talk featuring Camille A. Brown that discusses Black Girl: Linguistic Play. Watch it here.
Photo credit for Camille A. Brown headshot: Whitney Browne.
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Meet The Creators
- Educator
- Camille A. Brown
- Script Editor
- Mia Nacamulli
- Title Designer
- Tolga Yıldız
- Narrator
- Camille A. Brown
