The Katherine Dunham Juba Dance Festival on June 14 is a celebration that honors the legacy of dance, cultural identity and activism pioneered by Katherine Dunham. This annual festival offers a space where the past meets the present, merging Ms. Dunham’s innovative fusion of dance, anthropology, and Black diasporic expression with the voices of today’s artists and creators.
The festival offers a mix of workshops, master classes and performances designed to engage dancers, creators and cultural workers in dialogue through movement. This year’s festival will focus on the intersection of art and activism, encouraging participants to connect with their craft and their community in profound ways.
"We are excited to continue Katherine Dunham’s tradition of blending artistic expression with cultural awareness and activism," said Crystal Newson, festival director and artistic director of Juba. "The Juba Dance Festival offers a space where dance is not only celebrated as an art form but also as a powerful tool for social change."
Here is the schedule of events:
June 14 – Dance Master Classes at Annex Chattanooga Ballet
607 N Market St. Suite 102
9:15-10:30 a.m. – Contemporary with Maya Lightfoot
10:40 a.m.-12 p.m. – Jazz with William Harris III
12:10-1:30 p.m. – Hip-Hop with Chmira Dayvon
Led by artists from the region, these master classes provide an opportunity for participants to connect, grow and learn culturally significant dance forms. Each session is designed to inspire both beginners and experienced dancers alike.
June 14 – JUBA Dance Ensemble Performance
University Center, 715 Mocs Alumni Dr.
Doors open: 6:30 p.m.
Show starts: 7 p.m.
This performance showcases the strength, artistry and legacy of Katherine Dunham. Directed by Crystal Newson, the show will feature work by renowned artists including Madia Cooper-Ashirifi, Kofi Mawuko, Maya Lightfoot, and Shabaz Ujima, director and founder of Shackled Feet DANCE. Ujima joins the festival from Nashville as both choreographer and performer.