The University of Central Arkansas Public Appearances presents “Step Afrika!” on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 7 p.m. at Reynolds Performance Hall.
Founded in 1994 by C. Brian Williams,”Step Afrika!” is the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping. Under Williams’ leadership, stepping has evolved into one of America’s cultural exports, touring more than 60 countries across the globe and ranking as one of the top 10 African American Dance Companies in the United States.
“Step Afrika!” blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities; traditional African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Performances are much more than dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humor, and audience participation. The blend of technique, agility, and pure energy makes each performance unique and leaves the audience with their hearts pounding.
The dancers of “Step Afrika!” are all college graduates–many who attended Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU)–and are members of historically black Greek fraternities and sororities.
As part of the world’s first interactive stepping exhibit, thousands experience”Step Afrika!” at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture each day as part of the museum’s Explore More! interactive gallery.
UCA Public Appearances Executive Director Amanda Horton said, “This vibrant show will capture the audience’s attention and tell the story of the African step culture through beautiful costumes, inspiring music and stunning dance choreography. The cast has extensive experience in the artistry of step as they all participated in their own college’s step groups.”
UCA Public Appearances is celebrating 25 years in Reynolds Performances Hall. Highly acclaimed artists such as Ray Charles, Wayne Newton, Common, Amy Grant, Dione Warwick, Ricky Skaggs, and more have performed in the 1,200-seat theatre.
UCA Public Appearances has continued to grow each year and now has five unique series that are offered: Broadway, POPS, Night Out, Speaker, and the Windgate Collection. Reynolds Performance Hall has also welcomed over 65,000 preK-12th grade students from across the state of Arkansas to experience live performing arts through the Main Stage Education Series. This series educates while entertaining and provides arts accessibility to all students.
Tickets range from $30-$50 for adults and $10 for children/students. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased at the Reynolds box office or Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts box office Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., online at uca.edu/publicappearances or by calling UCA Ticket Central at (501) 450-3265 or toll-free at (866) 810-0012. Student and children tickets are only available by contacting the box office.
