Currently Browsing: Arts: Performing Arts

Kelly Hall-Tompkins: From Carnegie Hall to Community Outreach

Today marks the 15th anniversary of the release of Kelly Hall-Tompkins’ album In My Own Voice. To celebrate the occasion, FF2 looks back at Kelly’s extraordinary career, from her achievements as a world-renowned violinist to her work as a social justice advocate.

Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Kelly began learning the violin at nine years old.read more.

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Jeanine Tesori Finds the Right Notes for Emotionally Complex Lives

If you’re a Broadway fan, there’s nothing quite so daunting as an original Broadway musical. Realistically, it could turn out to be a disappointment. On the other hand, it could be the next big thing. When it comes to Kimberly Akimbo, theatre goers can rejoice. This is due in part to the work of Jeanine Tesori, an icon of the musical theatre industry.read more.

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Jawole Willa Jo Zollar Fuses Dance and Activism

Today, FF2 celebrates the exemplary career of dancer, choreographer, and teacher Jawole Willa Jo Zollar. On this day in 1988, Jawole and her dance group Urban Bush Women performed in the multidisciplinary show Heat, staged in one of New York City’s most established avante-garde theaters, The Kitchen. Heat combined dance, poetry, and drama.read more.

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Danai Gurira is a Powerhouse Playwright & Philanthropist

Today is the ten-year anniversary of the film Mother of George, making it the perfect day to celebrate the fabulous woman who brought the film to life, Danai Gurira!

Danai Gurira is a Zimbabwean-American actress, known for her roles in popular television series and films such as The Walking Dead and Black Panther.read more.

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Spreading Joy: Ayodele Casel – Tap Dancer & Choreographer

Since I first saw Ayodele Casel dance with her company in 2016, I’ve been an enthusiastic fan, and I’ve introduced many friends to her performances. She’s won a Bessie Award (one of dance’s highest honors), was a Drama Desk nominee for Outstanding Choreography for Funny Girl on Broadway, and was Artist in Residence at Harvard University.read more.

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