Step Afrika! and Texas A&M University – Kingsville synchronized rhythms for a memorable performance on Feb. 25 in Jones Auditorium. TAMUK students and the community were invited to witness the live performance of Step Afrika!, Washington’s largest African American arts organization.
The company meshes percussive dance styles historically practiced in African American sororities and fraternities that transform into storytelling performances. African-American rhythms have influenced and served as the basis of a variety of dance and music genres.
Over the past 23 years Step Afrika! has shown tremendous growth by traveling nationally and internationally spreading the African-American culture to several colleges.
“Stepping is important because it is rooted to colleges. Stepping was brought up as a form of expression, it’s important to show culture and be able to learn from it. I love sharing my gift with others, and I love inspiring other people to do better and pursue their dream. It makes me feel real happy inside,” said Anesia Sandifer, Step Afrika, performing artist.
The Jones Auditorium was filled with energy and color as Step Afrika! actively engaged the audience with chants and humor. The crowd was in awe of the rhythmic experience, and several were even tapping or dancing along with the performance.
Step Afrika! is known to get the crowd moving, and TAMUK was no exception; several audience members were pulled out on stage and were taught new beats.
“I was told about this event through the African Student Association, I’m also part of the Black Student Union and we all decided to come as a group. I enjoyed the whole show, it was a pretty big show and I think these types of events are important because it allows us to become familiar with culture and diversity. I loved the experience and liked participating on stage,” said Khrisgina Applewhite, biomedical science major.
Step Afrika! believes in teamwork, dedication and work ethic. Therefore, they offered students the opportunity to apply for the Step Afrika! scholarship to enable students to pursue their goals. They showcased unity and embraced diversity through their cinematic performance.
“We decided to bring Step Afrika, because we had already had them here a couple of years ago. We have also started a Black Heritage Committee and we thought this was a good opportunity for students to learn about culture. My favorite part of the show was when the audience was allowed to participate…it really boosted students,” said Loreal Robertson, Assistant Director of Student Activities.
The performance accented the traditions of using stepping as a form of communication and expression. A popular rhythm in the African-American community utilizes Gumboots to communicate effectively.
For example, one clap against the boot would mean get in line while two would mean I’m hungry. Where words failed to translate expression, stepping created its own language.
“My favorite part would be when the guys were doing a special dance that the workers would do to communicate. It showed how amazing tradition is and how it has come over the years to be carried on. It’s pretty cool to see different parts of the world in our own backyard thanks to Step Afrika!,” said Kimberly Gonzalez, a Social Work major.
Dancing is an important part of cultural heritage that uniquely emphasizes the foundation of traditions.
Through the years, Step Afrika! has been listed as part of the top 10 African American Dance Companies in the country.
They have excelled in carrying the legacy of African-American culture and have creatively kept their traditions alive through the art of stepping.