Urban Bush Women: Hair & Other Stories

“…the Urban Bush Women are committed, triple-threat performers who dance, sing, and act with a sometimes searing sense of truthfulness.”  —The New York Times

Choreographed by Urban Bush Women Associate Artistic Directors Chanon Judson and Samantha Speis, in collaboration with the company, Hair & Other Stories is a multidisciplinary experience that blends dance-theatre with conversations that challenge existing American values and celebrate our choices around “who we be” and “how we do.” Crafted from personal narratives, the piece explores disquieting perceptions of beauty, identity and race, and what constitutes the freedom to rise beyond our ordinary selves in extraordinary times. Featuring new music compositions by The Illustrious Blacks (Manchildblack and Monstah Black) with stage direction by Raelle Myrick-Hodges.

For 35 years, choreographer Jawole Willa Jo Zollar’s company Urban Bush Women has given expression to the vitality and boldness of African American women. The company’s bold and boundary-pushing storytelling weaves contemporary dance, music, and text with the history, culture, and spiritual traditions of African Americans and the African diaspora.

This event is part of IGNITE @ the FORD!, a series comprised of world-renowned contemporary artists whose work is thought-provoking and reflects the world in which we live. Proceeds benefit the Ford Theatre Foundation.