UPROAR: A CELEBRATION OF AFRICAN AMERICAN CREATIVITY
African Burying Ground Memorial 386 State Street, PortsmouthDerived from African culture and dance, the art of stepping was created by the enslaved when enslavers refused to let them communicate with drums. Stepping uses the body as an instrument that incorporates slapping the arms, legs, and chest. Made popular by historically Black Greek organizations, today, this art form combines chanting, singing, and dancing. Uproar is a high-energy performance that introduces audiences to the unique lineages of this African American dance and demonstrates how enslaved people on American soil used…
