Does Classicism Have Color: The Absence of Blacks in Ballet (Speaker: Lawrence Jackson)
This presentation examines the historical and contemporary forces that have contributed to the exclusion and marginalization of Black dancers within the tradition of classical ballet. Drawing from dance history, social theory, and cultural analysis, it interrogates how aesthetic ideals, pedagogical practices, and institutional structures have reinforced a narrow definition of “classicism” rooted in Eurocentric norms. The session highlights the ways in which Black dancers, choreographers, and educators have navigated and challenged these barriers, expanding the ballet canon and reimagining its possibilities. Through a critical look at representation, access, body politics, and the evolving landscape of ballet training and performance, this presentation invites dialogue about equity, cultural ownership, and the future of the form. Ultimately, it asks: What does ballet become when its classical foundations are broadened to reflect the full spectrum of dancers who shape the art?
A/V requirements: LCD Projector, Screen, HDMI connection/laptop connection