Step Afrika! Celebrates Culture and Community Through Dance
ALTOONA, Pa. – A dynamic cultural practice that originated as a mode of communication has skyrocketed to become a captivating performance art. Step Afrika!, an internationally acclaimed dance company, recently performed at Penn State Altoona, drawing attention to the engaging art form of stepping.
The Essence of Stepping
Stepping consists of rhythmic movements, including stomping, clapping, and snapping, which facilitate storytelling and emotional expression. Step Afrika! enhances this vibrant art form by incorporating interactive skits, making their performances engaging for audiences of all ages.
“Stepping originated as African American students began attending universities in greater numbers and forming fraternities and sororities,” dancer Jayden King explained. “They expressed themselves through dance, creating lines or circles and chanting, which laid the foundation for what we know as stepping today.”
Origins and Impact
Founded in 1994 by C. Brian Williams, Step Afrika! travels extensively across the U.S. and around the globe, offering both educational performances and entertaining shows. This year, they honored Black History Month with a complimentary performance at Penn State Altoona.
“I started stepping in fifth grade,” shared dancer Jerod Coleman. His experience was influenced by his sister’s involvement in stepping teams at Spelman College, where she taught him choreographed routines.
For King, who attended a historically Black college and university (HBCU), stepping was a familiar sight on campus. “It piqued my interest and love for the art, leading me to Step Afrika!,” he noted.
Bridging Cultures Through Dance
Stepping not only draws inspiration from contemporary dance but also preserves the rich history of African American culture. The origins of this art form are rooted in overcoming language barriers, where physical expression became a crucial mode of communication.
Coleman emphasized the importance of teaching the history behind the dance, stating, “As a former educator, it’s monumental to illustrate how it connects people across cultures. The magic of stepping began as a cultural exchange.”
Recently, the company had the opportunity to visit Johannesburg, South Africa, where they experienced the local culture firsthand and collaborated with residents, enhancing their artistic expression.
“Initially, I was just dancing for enjoyment, but then I realized the profound cultural significance it holds for those expressing their family histories,” Coleman added. “This revelation frames our performances with greater depth and meaning.”
A Global Family of Dancers
With years of experience, King considers Step Afrika! a new family that enables him to share stepping and broader dance culture with diverse audiences. “It’s about showcasing unity and community,” he expressed. “Stepping connects various cultures through the universal language of music.”
Coleman echoed this sentiment, stating, “We embrace stepping, which unites and fosters community. Through music, we create a common bond that transcends boundaries.”
Step Afrika!’s dynamic performances and rich storytelling make them a beacon of cultural appreciation, bridging gaps and celebrating shared histories through the transformative power of dance. For more information, visit Step Afrika!.
