This project examines the role of griots. As keepers of oral tradition, they significantly impact their communities, lineages, and cultures. We are exploring how this living archive of tradition exists in a diasporic context. Through movement, music, and text, we will connect the West African griot to Black elders in the Diaspora. We aim to create a dance that merges history with the present. One that highlights the living history of the griot. This show will draw connections between artistic communities in Senegal, Brazil, and the United States. We will shine a light on the diversity of Black communities in Oregon and around the world.
To premiere in fall 2025.
What an amazing night! Our first ever dance fashion show was an incredible success. Set in the sunken ballroom of the Portland Art Museum, everyone left with hearts full and cheeks throbbing.
Rejoice! Diaspora Dance Theater seeks to diversify the contemporary dance landscape with untold stories and under-told perspectives of communities of color. Grounded in values from the African Diaspora we use our art as activism. Rejoice! celebrates and cultivates community through artistic engagement, performances, and dialogue, weaving stories of hardship and triumph.
READ MORENo amount is too small. Give $25, $50, $100 or whatever calls to you. Rejoice! is a Non Profit Organization committed to bringing high artistic quality to the Portland Community and beyond. Every donation makes a difference.
Rejoice! is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, making your donation tax deductible. Tax ID #84-2709421
