Year: 2025-2026
DanceForce Member: D. Chase Angier
Artists: Jenise Anthony; Mohamed Diaby
Community Partner: Alfred University
Audience: 650
County: Allegany

NYS DanceForce is proud to present 3 engaging and educational series of African and African Diaspora dance and drumming lecture demonstrations in K-12 schools and a larger community performance at Alfred University. This initiative aims to promote cultural awareness, artistic expression, and accessibility in arts education while fostering a deeper understanding of the rich traditions of the African Diaspora.

Led by principal artists Jenise Anthony and Mohammed Diaby, this program will feature dynamic performances, interactive dance and drumming experiences, and discussions on the historical and cultural significance of these traditions. Through movement and rhythm, students and community members will gain firsthand experience of African artistic heritage in a participatory and inclusive environment.

The project is made possible through partnerships with Alfred University Performing Arts Division and Dance Program, ensuring expanded access to arts education, particularly in underserved schools. By reaching students who may not typically have exposure to these art forms, the program supports our goals by broadening cultural representation in arts programming.

In addition to K-12 schools, this initiative will directly engage Alfred University students, staff, and faculty, as well as the larger Allegany and Steuben County communities. These events will provide opportunities for university participants to explore cross-cultural artistic traditions while fostering dialogue on the importance of cultural preservation and artistic exchange.

Through a series of scheduled events – lecture demonstrations at Alfred Almond, Arkport and Hornell Central Schools and a performance at Alfred University on September 19th, the program is expected to reach an estimated audience of 600 – 700 students, educators, university participants, and community members.

For the participating artists, this project represents an opportunity to share and preserve African and African Diaspora traditions while inspiring the next generation of artists and cultural leaders. For the broader community, it offers an invaluable space for learning, connection, and engagement with the diversity of global artistic practices.