AFR 185/SOC 214: Prof. Bruno's Classes: Dance

This article features African American dancer and choreographer Alonzo King. The concept of movement as a form of truth-telling has resonated with him throughout his career, and it is the core philosophy behind LINES Ballet, a dance company he co-founded in 1982. His contributions to traditional ballet are discussed, as well as his family and educational background.

This essay explores genealogies of Black women's presence in American modern dance to theorize connectivity as a methodology to appreciate their creative work. The legacies of more familiar dance artists, including Pearl Primus and Katherine Dunham, are discussed in relation to achievements and interventions by less-discussed, but no less important, African American women including Joan Myers Brown, Judy Dearing, Thelma Hill, Carole Johnson, and Edisa Weeks. The essay offers evidence of a radical creative tradition within these genealogies; one that has been less widely appreciated by mainstream histories of dance, but surely influential in the creation of American concert dance.

Hines has performed for 48 years, starting at age three. His career has included tap dancing, acting and singing. His latest effort is the new family-oriented sitcom, 'The Gregory Hines Show.' His career, identity as an African American, sibling rivalry, and future plans are discussed.