Dance Culture in New York City
Dance Culture in New York City, a FREE elective for students in grades 8–12, takes place on Saturdays, October 29, November 5, 12, December 3, 10 and 17 from 10:00 am–12:00 pm.
About the Program
Participate in the Rhythm and Power series to see how New York City history comes alive in exciting new ways through dance and recording oral histories of some of the city’s most accomplished artists.
In this course, students will learn about the history of New York City’s diverse population and rich immigrant cultures through the lens of dance. The course will examine dance cultures in New York City including swing, salsa, bomba, bachata, merengue, and urban party dances from the 1980s and 90s. Classes will include dance movement, discussions, and film clips. In addition, students will record oral narratives with legendary artists based in New York City.
Instructors
Derrick Washington, Ph.D. in socio-cultural anthropology with a specialization in performance from the University of Texas at Austin and Andrew W. Mellon Curatorial Postdoctoral Fellow at the Museum of the City of New York
Pilar Jefferson, B.A. in Art History from Vassar College and Museum Educator at the Museum of the City of New York
Applications from students who live and/or attend school in Harlem will be reviewed first (from the following zip codes: 10026, 10027, 10029, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039). Accepted candidates will be notified by email, mail, or telephone by Friday, October 21.
The Museum is grateful to the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, which supports the fellowship of Rhythm & Power Curator Dr. Derrick León Washington
