A
viable artistic force in dance communities around the world, recognized
for her many talents as dancer, director, producer, choreographer, arts
educator, costume designer and humanitarian. Known to many in the
African Dance genre as a “National Treasure”, Amaniyea have been the
recipient of many awards, which speaks to my career achievements.
Her style of dance evolves from natural rhythmic movements based and informed by dances and cultures of the African Diasporas. She’s
studied, performed and toured globally with prominent companies and
well known music and dance legends, such as Stevie Wonder, Cab Calloway,
Ben Harper, Bunny Wailers and Lindy-hop innovators Norma Miller,
Frankie Manning, Momma Lou Parks to name a few and Muntu Dance Theatre
of Chicago, where she presently serves as Artistic Director.
Ms.
Payne have collaborated with artists and arts organizations throughout
the Diasporas, focusing on finding new ways to translate dance for the
stage while also preserving and respecting traditional parameters for
performance. Having a deep sense
of responsibility to honor the legacy of great expressions of dance
Amaniyea respectfully continue to aid in the development of the future
generations of dancers who will carry the aesthetic and spiritual base
of Black Dance.
Two notable events:
1. A community class is offered Friday, September 27 from 6:30-8pm in Room 3315 in Old Main, 4841 Cass Ave.
2. An Informance (informal performance) of the work Ms. Payne set on the To Sangana company will be held Saturday, September 28 at 12:00pm in the Allesee Dance Theatre, room 3317 in Old Main, 4841 Cass Ave.
Join us!
