Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars: A Juneteenth Celebration Through Dance

Grown Women Dance Collective (GWDC) presents the 9th annual Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars: A Juneteenth Celebration Through Dance, featuring powerhouse performances honoring musical greats and civic leaders whose legacies continue to inform and inspire.

The all-star cast includes former members of renown dance companies such as Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company, as well as Broadway-stage veterans. In keeping with the spirit of GWDC by defying perceptions of what it means to be a dancer, all of the Juneteenth performers are retired professional dancers, and all are over 40. Their electrifying performances will include tributes to Luther Vandross, Fats Domino, Nina Simone, Prince and more.

Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars: A Juneteenth Celebration Through Dance pays homage to the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States – Juneteenth. On June 19, 1865 enslaved people in Texas were informed by Union soldiers that the Civil War had ended and they were free. The news came two and a half years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. GWDC’s production reflects the larger themes of the Juneteenth holiday: jubilation, self-development, respect for all cultures and the betterment of community. The show is an accessible, inspiring and family-friendly evening of dance, music and American history. As part of GWDC’s commitment to exposing diverse peoples to concert dance, concert tickets and master classes will be donated to low income children, survivors of domestic violence and organizations that advocate for the underserved.

“Through the arts we have a huge opportunity to impact social change and build cross-cultural bridges. This work has a solid effect on the community, encouraging people of all backgrounds to come together, learn, share and try to make a difference in the world. By raising awareness of African American struggles and triumphs, it highlights the joy and common experiences that we all share as Americans.” – GWDC Artistic Director, Tonya Marie Amos

About Grown Women Dance Collective

Grown Women Dance Collective creates cross cultural, generational and class connections, encourages dialogue, empowers thought and action, while building racial harmony through dance and music. In a positive and nurturing environment, mature female dancers create artistic work that is relevant and accessible to diverse and underserved communities.