International Conference of Blacks in Dance Comes to UArts

From Jan. 14 to 19, UArts will host several classes and workshops on campus during the 32nd Annual International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD) Conference and Festival of Blacks in Dance in partnership with the Philadelphia Dance Company (PHILADANCO). Titled Then Now Next, this year’s conference sets the stage for cultural exchange “through creative expression and discussion of those legendary artists who shaped the blueprint for Black Dance then, those championing the narrative now, and cultivating the opportunities for what’s next,” says IABD President and CEO Denise Saunders Thompson in The Dance Journal’s December press release. 

During this four-day dance festival, attendees will have numerous opportunities to broaden their understanding of dance history and technique through IABD’s curated programming, which includes performances, movement workshops and classes, discussions and panels, a film screening, a membership town hall, social events, an awards celebration, auditions, and more. Through these programs—designed to make you move, talk and learn—each registrant will be challenged to promote a vibrant future for dance. 

University of the Arts’ School of Dance will welcome attendees to campus for several classes and workshops, including TAP Philly Style, a full day of tap classes for all levels and ages, followed by a Tap Jam, featuring professionals Jason Samuels Smith and Dormeshia. IABD’s on the 1 dance class series presents three days of technical training through innovative methodologies with world-renowned dance faculty and professionals. UArts faculty Dinita Clark, Kyle Clark, Wayne David, Donald Lunsford and Michael Sheridan will be teaching across a variety of genres Thursday through Saturday, and Assistant Professor Shayla-Vie Jenkins will serve on a panel. Associate Professor Kim Bears-Bailey BFA ’84 (Dance) has served on the IABD Conference and Festival Committee as associate artistic director of PHILADANCO.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with peers in various track groups, such as artists (attendees who are 18 years old and up, choreographers, college students and professionals), education (educators, parents, researchers and scholars), leadership (agents/managers, artistic/executive directors, funders, staff and studio owners) and youth (ages 10–18, grade and high school students). 

IABD was formed 32 years ago by Joan Myers Brown, founder and executive artistic director of PHILADANCO, and brings together like-minded visionaries to “preserve and promote dance by people of African ancestry or origin, and assist and increase opportunities for artists in advocacy, audience development, education, funding, networking, performance, philosophical dialogue and touring,” according to the mission statement on their website.

Since then, the conference has become IABD’s largest and broadest international program, giving dancers the chance to learn from and share experiences with other artists from around the world. As such, this yearly gathering of black dance professionals, scholars, teachers and students remains a diverse place to share ideas, cultures and experiences.

“IABD and PHILADANCO have assembled an exceptional collection of world class dancers who reflect the aesthetic and integrity of the unique forms, genres, methods and styles that embody the brilliance of black dance,” says Saunders Thompson. “Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or new to seeing dance, there is an undeniable feeling of wonder and excitement when excellence is placed on stage before you.”

 

Learn more about the IABD Conference and Festival.