Dance Theatre of Harlem: 40 Years of Firsts

“one of ballet’s most exciting undertakings”

– The New York Times, 1971

“As a young girl, I dreamed of being a ballet dancer, but was told I couldn’t do it because I was black. I feel very fortunate and thrilled that I can pass this art form along to the next generation of dancers.”

–  Virginia Johnson, Artistic Director, Dance Theatre of Harlem

Highlighting Dance Theatre of Harlem’s 40-plus year history, this magnificent exhibition celebrates the history and art of dance with 25 costumes and accessories, set pieces, documentary video excerpts, historical photographs and tour posters; and includes four dramatically-staged ballets that are iconic to the company: A Streetcar Named Desire, Creole Giselle, Dougla, and Firebird. Dispelling the belief that ballet could not be performed by those of African descent, Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem in 1969. It has since grown into a multi-cultural dance institution.

The exhibition comes with customized costume forms and backdrops for the four staged ballets. Banners are long and can be mounted to a wall, or will require tall ceilings to hang in open air space.

In the last 45 years, the professional touring company of Dance Theatre of Harlem has performed in 44 states, 250 cities in North America, and in 40 countries on 6 continents.

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