First-ever Black History Month Dance Event Coming to Palm Beach County

0
293

The day of dance will include dance classes, workshops, performances and more at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

Jan. 11, 2024 (WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) — Natural Movers Foundation and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will host South Florida’s first day of dance in honor of Black History Month this February. 

MOVED: A Celebration of Black History and Culture Through Dance will occur on Saturday, February 24, 2024. The inaugural single-day dance experience invites attendees to move, learn, and witness the spaces that Black dancers and artists pioneered, carved, and influenced in the field of dance.

Experienced dancers and those new to dance can take various masterclasses in modern, ballet, African dance, hip hop, and more. Panel discussions and additional workshops will also take place, followed by a special performance at the end of the day. More details are available at naturalmovers.org/moved.

“We can’t wait to partner with the Kravis Center on this exciting new event,” said Ericka Squire, NMF founder & CEO. “This immersive dance experience has something for everyone—whether they want to participate in a dance class or partake in a cultural workshop—to celebrate the Africanist presence in dance. We hope to educate the South Florida community about the many Black influencers and change-makers who have shaped the industry—and offer the community a fun way to appreciate dance this February.”

“Downtown West Palm Beach is known for its cultural scene and commitment to hosting unique events,” said Teneka James-Feaman, associate executive director of the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority. “We are excited to support MOVED—this event showcases downtown’s unique spirit, diverse community, and remarkable artistic talent.”

This year’s featured dance artists include David “The Crown” Stalter, World Champion of the “World Hip Hop Dance Championship” and USA Champion of “Red Bull Dance Your Style”; assistant professor of dance at the University of Maryland Baltimore County and Master Teacher of the Umfundalai technique Shaness Kemp; and Buddha Stretch, award-winning hip-hop artist and choreographer who has worked with artists such as Michael Jackson, Will Smith and Mariah Carey.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with the Natural Movers Foundation to present this extraordinary day of dance celebrating Black culture on the final Saturday of Black History Month,” said Tracy C. Butler, Kravis Center director of education.

If You Go:

Who: Natural Movers Foundation & Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

What: MOVED: A Celebration of Black History and Culture Through Dance

When: Saturday, February 24, 2024 (Workshops: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Concert: 8 p.m.)

Where: Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Cohen Pavilion (2nd floor))

Tickets: Full day plus concert ticket: $50/person* (early bird), ($75/person after February 1, 2024)

Single concert ticket: $25/person; single dance class pass: $20/person

This event is made possible thanks to the support of the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority and the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District.

For a full schedule of events, visit naturalmovers.org/moved.

###

About Natural Movers Foundation:

Natural Movers Foundation is the only organization dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape and artistic progression of Palm Beach County through dance. We offer masterclasses to dance enthusiasts & professionals and transformative dance events & performances for the community to enjoy. We also put artists to work by connecting local choreographers and teaching artists to performance and teaching opportunities. Natural Movers offers free arts education programs throughout Palm Beach County. For more information about upcoming events, visit naturalmovers.org.

About the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts:

The Kravis Center is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach, FL. The Center’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in Palm Beach County by presenting a diverse schedule of national and international artists and companies of the highest quality, by offering comprehensive arts education programs; by providing a Palm Beach County home for local and regional arts organizations to showcase their work; and by providing an economic catalyst and community leadership in West Palm Beach, supporting efforts to increase travel and tourism to Palm Beach County. For information, please visit kravis.org

*All programs, artists, ticket prices, availability, dates and times are subject to change without notice. Visit kravis.org for up-to-date information.

The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority: 

The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) was created in 1967 as an independent special taxing district to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities. The DDA improves and maintains Downtown West Palm Beach by offering information and services to visitors, residents and business owners. For more information visit DowntownWPB.com 

The West Palm Beach Arts &Entertainment District:

The West Palm Beach Arts &Entertainment District is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to engage, promote, and advance diverse arts, culture and entertainment opportunities for residents and visitors of West Palm Beach. The A&E District enhances the appeal of West Palm Beach, drawing attention to its robust arts community that creates a distinct sense of place and contributes to the status of a vibrant city illuminated by its beauty, community economic success and range of creative expression. For more information visit DowntownWPBArts.com