May 9, 2022

In March, Interim Dance Program Director, Blanca Huertas-Agnew, had the opportunity to moderate an event with Five Black Ballerinas. These veteran dancers discussed aspects of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity as it relates not only to historical representation in dance, but what artists are currently doing to have BIPOC representation in the dance world. Panelists also talked about the importance of mentorship and the changes needed in the dance field.

The event was co-moderated with Norma Porter from Temple University. This event was shared with the University of the Arts, Temple University Dance, and Drexel Dance and students participated in master classes uniting the Collegiate Dance Community in Philadelphia.

This event featured Dance Theater of Harlem and 152nd Street Black Ballet members; Marcia Sells, Sheila Rohan, Gayle McKinney-Griffith, Karlya Shelton-Benjamin, and Lydia Abarca-Mitchell.