Embracing the profound essence of Ubuntu, the Ly-Ben Dance Alliance embarks on an exciting journey to host the inaugural Ubuntu Dance Festival in the heart of Columbia, SC. Ubuntu, a cherished African philosophy, embodies the spirit of reconciliation, forgiveness, love, sharing, and humanity — a testament to the profound interconnectedness of us all, encapsulated in the powerful mantra, "I am, because we are."
In our quest to nurture a vibrant dance community, we are dedicated to fostering an atmosphere of cooperation among the esteemed dance schools and companies in Columbia and in South Carolina. We firmly believe that this collaboration is the cornerstone for the flourishing and enduring presence of the dance arts in the Midlands and beyond.
The Ubuntu Dance Festival will unfold a tapestry of unity and creativity. It will grace the community with a day of free community dance classes at five local community centers, empowering individuals from ages 2 – senior adults to explore the beauty of movement. Master classes at our host facility will further enrich the artistic souls, while the evening will be adorned with mesmerizing performances by dance schools and companies from across the state. Diverse dance genres will interweave, painting a vibrant picture of harmony and expression.
At the heart of this festival lies a profound aspiration — to bind the threads of our dance community into a tight-knit, supportive fabric. The festival's ripple effect will bring forth a myriad of benefits, illuminating our path forward: 1. Exposure and recognition for the host, along with local dance schools and companies that will be showcased, illuminating the richness of dance available in Columbia, its surroundings and the state. 2. Camaraderie and Unity: A sense of camaraderie and unity will flourish within our dance community, nurturing connections that inspire and uplift. 3. Awareness and Participation: The influx of participants to our host facility and Columbia will raise awareness about its offerings, particularly the enriching dance program that is available. 4. Collaborative Service: A groundbreaking collaboration between the Ly-Ben Dance Alliance and the dance community will emerge, dedicated to serving the area with passion and purpose. 5. Living Legends Educating and Performing Initiative: This event marks the inauguration of the Living Legends Educating and Performing (L.L.E.A.P) Initiative. By actively engaging the community with performing dancers, choreographers, and teachers, this initiative emphasizes the vital importance of representation, showcasing role models who inspire future generations.
In the spirit of Ubuntu, let us dance together, learn together, and inspire one another. Together, we can illuminate the world with the transformative power of dance, weaving a tapestry of unity, understanding, and boundless creativity. Join us on this remarkable journey — for in the dance of life, we find our truest selves, and in unity, we discover our greatest strength. #ubuntudancefestival
Additional information for the Ubuntu performance:
Registration ends April 1st or as soon as all performing slots are filled.
All performers should arrive by 6:30 pm and check in with the lead hostess. We will start the show promptly at 7:30 pm.
There is limited space backstage and for dressing rooms. Please be prepared to share an area not necessarily a dressing room.
If there is room, after you perform participants can go into the audience.
There will be no compensation for performances. All dancers are participating gratis in the spirit of Ubuntu and the opportunity to get information circulating about your school/company.
At the end of the show, we will ask all directors to come onstage for a presentation.
The program will last from 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the number of responses that are received.
If there are any questions call Gail Glover at 803.216.1953 or email lyben1@bellsouth.net.
Additional information for masterclasses: 1. For Ballet please wear the appropriate dancewear if possible - Leotard, tights (or leggings) and Ballet slippers (for girls). Boys T-shirt, tights (or sweatpants) and slippers. 2. For African and Contemporary, wear loose comfortable dancewear. 3. Although water will be available, you are welcomed to bring your personal water bottle. 4. Classes will begin and end on time. Please do not be late entering the classes out of respect for the Master teachers. 5. For Ballet class hair should be pulled back, off the face unless it is short. . 6. Advance Classes (11 - adults) are for students who have extensive training . Intermediate students (11 - adults) have a good working knowledge of technique . Beginners (8-12 years old) Some previous knowledge helpful but not necessary.
Get your free tickets for the Community Dance Concert click on the link below