‘The Heartbeat:
A Cultural Revival’
“The Heartbeat: A Cultural Revival” is an exhibition and series of performances that pay homage to the music, dance, art, fashion, literature, theatre, politics and scholarship of the New Negro Movement, better known as the Harlem Renaissance. The event includes performances by professional dance companies and by Texas A&M students.
Details: Feb. 1-28. Exhibition at Parker Astin, 110 N. Bryan Ave. in Downtown Bryan. Performances at Parker Astin and at the Physical Education Activity Program Building.
Urban Souls Dance Company, Feb. 1 at 6 p.m. at PEAP. The company performs “Shadow Work,” which explores the concept of our shadow selves — the hidden aspects of our identities. Through intricate choreography and emotive music, the dancers move through a subconscious landscape where power meets vulnerability. The work draws the audience into a journey of self-exploration, where the performers confront and accept parts of themselves often suppressed by societal norms.
Social Movement Contemporary Dance Theater, Feb. 7 at 6 p.m. at Parker Astin. The company will perform the world-renowned “Sing Sing Sing,” choreographed in 1983 by Gus Giordano, known as the godfather of American jazz dance. The company will also present an excerpt from “Black Love: Mr. Soul,” a tribute to Sam Cooke, choreographed by Elijah Alhadji Gibson, Social Movement artistic director and Texas A&M Dance Science associate program director. Dance Science majors and apprentices will perform a piece choreographed by Everett Perry-Johnson, instructional assistant professor in Dance Science.
Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective: Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. at PEAP. The collective presents a dynamic repertoire inspired by the often-untold histories of African Americans in Texas. The group will restage “Angelitos Negros,” choreographed by Lori Bujung, founder of Second-Generation Dance Company. This piece sheds light on the freedom seekers who traveled the Underground Railroad south toward Mexico. The collective will also present a new work inspired by the stories and experiences uncovered during recent research in East Texas. The event will also feature “Shine Your Light,” set to an original song by Sha’Na Smith, which uplifts themes of resilience and community.
Mezclada Dance Company: Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. at PEAP. The company presents “Threading Connections,” an exploration of movement, relationships and the interplay of diverse dance styles. Seamlessly blending breaking, modern dance and Latin elements, this performance celebrates the art of connection through movement and shared cultural expressions.
