Celebrate Black History Month at The American Theatre!
Join us as we celebrate Black History with exciting performances that will leave you breathless!
You can do anything you want, even if you are being told negative things. Stay strong and find motivation. – Misty Copeland
A Ballerina's Tale: The Misty Copeland Story - Thursday, February 9 at 7:30pm
Iconic ballerina Misty Copeland made history when she became the first African-American woman to be named principal dancer of the legendary American Ballet Theater. Get the incredible, behind-the-scenes story of how she overcame a tumultuous upbringing and near career-ending injuries to become one of the most revered dancers of her generation. More than just a ballet success story, Copeland’s journey is a hugely inspirational, universal tale of perseverance. The film also includes exclusive, unseen footage of Misty performing.
An activist is one who is actively involved in creating community, whether that is locally in their neighborhood or internationally. It is an admirable quality. – Jasmine Guy
Raisin' Cane: A Harlem Renaissance Odyssey - Saturday, February 11 at 8pm
Starring the award winning actress, singer, and dancer Jasmine Guy, star of the Bill Cosby spin-off A Different World for which she won six consecutive NAACP Image Awards, and the acclaimed Avery Sharpe Trio, Raisin’ Cane celebrates and honors the legendary voices of the Harlem Renaissance through text, song, music, movement, and imagery. Inspired by the classic 1923 Jean Toomer novel "Cane" and works by the musicians, composers, poets, and actors of the Harlem Renaissance. In 1918, as the first great World War concluded and thousands of African-American soldiers returned home victorious, this mountain of artistic expression was now ready to explode.
Not only is the multi-disciplinary cast incredibly talented, but the show is fused with a great sense of tradition and authenticity in regards to African culture.” - Hampton Arts Artistic Director, Richard Parison on Cirque Zuma Zuma
Cirque Zuma Zuma - Sunday, February 19 at 2:30pm
Cirque Zuma Zuma is a dazzling combination of music, comedy, acrobatics, magic, and pure talent. A dazzling ensemble of African dancers, acrobats, contortionists and jugglers, Cirque Zuma Zuma is often described as the African-style Cirque du Soleil. A 2011 finalist on America’s Got Talent, this talented company wows audiences with thrilling entertainment for the young and young at heart!
We bring our positive messages into the world so we can expect a positive change in the world. And, most importantly, bring about peace. – Koroma, Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars
Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars - Saturday, March 11 at 8pm
Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars have risen like a phoenix out of the ashes of war and enflamed the passions of fans across the globe with their uplifting songs of hope, faith and joy. The band is a potent example of the redeeming power of music and the ability of the human spirit to persevere through unimaginable hardship and emerge with optimism intact. From their humble beginnings in West African refugee camps Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars have performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages and matured into one of Africa’s top touring and recording bands.
Source: brainyquote.com