Black History Month

Reflections: Invited Choreographers Showcase

Friday, Jan. 31- Sunday, Feb. 2
Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre

The Shenandoah Conservatory Dance Ensemble presents an inspiring showcase honoring the artistry and influence of emerging Black and BIPOC creatives. Featuring alumna Ashanté Greene ’14, creative director of the Dance Institute of Washington and former member of Dance Theatre of Harlem’s Professional Residency program at the Kennedy Center, and interdisciplinary artist Stephen Shynes, who has collaborated with icons like Bill T. Jones and Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, the program highlights diverse voices in contemporary dance. Joining them is Eric Parra, a first-generation Colombian-American who performs with Limón Dance Company and Camille A. Brown & Dancers. Parra will be presenting a restaging of José Limón’s timeless masterpiece, “There Is a Time.” Visit conservatoryperforms.org to learn more and purchase tickets.

Black Music Mondays

Mondays Feb. 3, 10, 17, & 24 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Brandt Student Center, Lobby

Listen to and learn about music with African and African American roots on Mondays throughout February, courtesy of The Mosaic Center for Diversity. Learn about the origins of your favorite music while you listen! For more information, contact mosaiccenter@letaoyizs.com.

Black History Bingo with CAN

Friday, Feb. 7 | 10 p.m.
Brandt Student Center, Food Hall

Play bingo and win prizes featuring items from Black- and African American-owned businesses at undergraduate bingo night on Feb. 7 in the Brandt Food Hall, located in the Brandt Student Center. The event is hosted by the Office of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in partnership with Campus Activities Network (CAN). Bring your friends and join the fun! For more information, contact the Mosaic Center at mosaiccenter@letaoyizs.com or CAN at can@letaoyizs.com.

She Is The Narrative

Saturday, Feb. 8 | 6:30 p.m.
Glaize Studio Theatre

“She is the Narrative” gives voice to the voiceless through history and present times. Directed by Desirée Dabney ’14 (Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting), “She is the Narrative” explores historical events, personal experiences and finding your voice when you are voiceless due to the color of your skin. This exploration leads an audience to discover, think and develop actions, celebrate black history together, cry, laugh, reflect, and rejoice. The performance will be followed by a Q&A with the artists. This event is free and open to the public; no tickets are required. Doors open at 6 p.m. This event is sponsored by Shenandoah University’s Black History Month committee.

Dabney is a professional actor, singer, director, teacher, and executive director of Theatre Diva Productions in Richmond, Virginia. She serves as assistant professor and head of musical theatre at Virginia Commonwealth University.

A Glimpse into Black History & Musical Context

Friday, Feb. 14 | 10 a.m.
Goodson Chapel-Recital Hall

This lecture-recital features Conservatory students Nicole Stroh and Susanna O’Herron performing works by Black composers spanning from 1895 to present day. From classical to rhythm and jazz, Stroh and O’Herron provide contextual information about the composers and various cultures around the world, challenging attendees to investigate their own interests, question what they know to be familiar, and grow appreciation for more roots in music. For more information, contact Aimee Gee at agee@letaoyizs.com.