The Brooks Center for the Performing Arts is thrilled to host a residency with the nationally acclaimed Collage Dance Collective, a leading Black-led ballet company. Recognized for its dedication to expanding diversity within ballet, Collage Dance Collective is at the forefront of inspiring a more inclusive and vibrant dance world. This significant residency is made possible through the generous support of a grant from South Arts, in partnership with the National Endowment of the Arts, alongside additional contributions from the City of Clemson and various departments within Clemson University, including Global Black Studies and the College of Arts and Humanities. Thanks to this funding, all events during the residency, including their public performance on February 13th, are free to the community.
“Collage Dance Collective’s mission and their unique interdisciplinary approach deeply resonated with me,” states Janice Crews, Executive Director of the Brooks Center. “Their ability to weave together literary and historical narratives into their performances creates a truly powerful and impactful experience.”
About Collage Dance Collective: Pioneers of Diversity in Ballet
Founded in 2006 in Memphis, Tennessee, Collage Dance Collective emerged as a direct response to the racial homogeneity prevalent within the ballet industry. Understanding that access to quality classical training was a key barrier, Collage established its dance conservatory in 2009, specifically aimed at underserved communities. For nearly two decades, Collage Dance Collective has captivated audiences both locally and internationally with emotionally resonant performances, while simultaneously nurturing a passion for dance in countless students. Their sustained efforts in arts education, coupled with the enthusiastic reception of their performances and their unwavering advocacy, have cultivated a thriving and dynamic Black dance community in Memphis. This remarkable contribution has been nationally recognized, with South Arts and the Ford Foundation recently honoring Collage Dance Collective as a “Southern Cultural Treasure.”
Collage Dance Collective dancers perform a neoclassical ballet piece on a brightly lit stage at Clemson University's Brooks Center.
Brooks Center Residency: Engaging Clemson and the Community
The three-day residency of Collage Dance Collective at the Brooks Center is packed with enriching activities designed to engage diverse audiences. The residency commences with a community welcome event, followed by an insightful ballet masterclass tailored for Clemson students. An educational performance geared towards K-12 children is also scheduled, alongside interactive sessions with students from Clemson’s Global Black Studies, Performing Arts, and One Big Book programs. The highlight of the residency is a public performance featuring two compelling works: Their Eyes Were Watching God, a neoclassical ballet inspired by Zora Neale Hurston’s iconic novel, and Rise, a powerful piece set to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s historic “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech from 1968. Adding a special touch to Rise, Clemson dance minor Caroline Lee Barrett will make a guest appearance.
Don’t Miss the Free Public Events
Collage Dance Collective is offering several free public events as part of their residency. Learn more and reserve your complimentary tickets through the links below:
Public Events
Welcome Event: Collage Dance Collective
Tuesday, February 11 at 6 p.m.
Clemson Area African American Museum
Free, ticket required
Collage Dance Collective Public Performance
Thursday, February 13 at 7:30 p.m.
Brooks Center for the Performing Arts
Free, ticket required
This residency offers a unique opportunity to witness the artistry and impact of Collage Dance Collective. Their commitment to diversity and excellence in ballet makes this a must-see event for the Clemson community and beyond.
