John Henry is the tale of the steel drivin’ man who fights against automation. He challenges the steam drill and wins, but dies with his hammer in his hand. Choreographed by DTH Co-founder Arthur Mitchell in 1988, his ballet is a testament to the singular perseverance that allowed the folk hero to triumph over impossible odds. Continue reading
Tag Archives: Black History
1/18/23 O&A NYC REVIEW: Ronald K. Brown/Evidence
By Walter Rutledge
Ronald K. Brown/Evidence began its New York season at the Joyce Theater on Tuesday January 17 and runs through Sunday, January 22. The six-day, seven performance offering presents three ensemble works spanning twenty-four years of Brown’s artistry. The season provides an insight into the thirty-eight-year journey of Brown and Evidence. Continue reading
1/16/23 O&A NYC HAIL THE KING!: Martin Luther King Jr.- The Other America
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 1967 speech at Stanford University where he expounds on his nonviolent philosophy and methodology.
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1/8/23 O&A NYC GOSPEL SUNDAY: Yolanda Adams- Never Give Up
Yolanda Adams sings Never Give Up at the White House during the Salute to Gospel Music in 2002. Continue reading
1/4/23 O&A NYC WILDIN OUT WEDNESDAY: Richard Pryor: Live & Smokin’ (1971)
Richard Pryor set the stage for the brash, no-holds-barred comedy practiced by later comic successes like Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle. His soulful performance–and his legacy–are captured in LIVE AND SMOKIN’, released in 1985 but filmed 15 years earlier at New York City’s Improvisation. Included among the funny, wide-ranging (and often vulgar) skits is the now famous “Wino Preacher and Willie the Junkie” sequence. Continue reading
12/25/22 O&A NYC CHRISTMAS SONG OF THE DAY: Nat King Cole – The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You)
Official music video for “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You)” by Nat King Cole. Continue reading
12/24/22 O&A NYC FROM THE VAULT: A Conversation with Clive Thompson- The Ailey Years
By Walter Rutledge
Clive Thompson danced in the Golden Era of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Officially becoming a permanent member in 1970 when choreographer Ailey was entering a creative zenith. He viral good looks, skillful partnering, and his ability to capture audiences in both dramatic and abstract roles made him Ailey royalty. Continue reading
12/23/22 O&A NYC THROWBACK THURSDAY HOLIDAY GREETING: Eartha Kitt- Santa Baby
Eartha Mae Kitt was an actress, singer, cabaret star, dancer, stand-up comedienne, activist and voice artist. Known for her highly distinctive singing style and her 1953 recordings of C’est Si Bon and the enduring Christmas novelty smash Santa Baby. Both songs became US Top 10 hits. Orson Welles once called her the most exciting woman in the world.
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12/20/22 O&A NYC INSPIRATIONAL TUESDAY: James Baldwin and Paul Weiss Debate Discrimination In America (The Dick Cavett Show 5/16/69 )
James Baldwin and Yale Professor, Paul Weiss get engaged in a debate on the issue of racial discrimination in the USA. Continue reading
12/7/22 O&A NYC WILDIN OUT WEDNESDAY: Jennifer Lewis talks to Kayne West
Jenifer Lewis is not here for Kanye West’s anti-Semitism comments and demands he “shut his mouth” during her recent appearance on The Pascal Show.
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