Last Tuesday night, as New York City sweltered under a fierce heat wave, Chanel set the stage for an enchanting evening at Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi, celebrating the fifth anniversary of the BAAND Together Dance Festival. This vibrant festival is a melting pot of creativity, showcasing an incredible collaboration among five distinguished dance companies—Ballet Hispánico, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, and Dance Theatre of Harlem. With pay-as-you-wish ticketing, it’s not just a show; it’s a celebration that invites everyone to experience the magic of dance. 🌟
The Power of Dance as a Unifying Force
“Each company speaks a different language,” shared Misty Copeland, the principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “To see them come together and represent their language and their community so beautifully—but yet we’re all speaking the same language of dance—this is what dance should be doing. It’s unifying.” Honestly, isn’t that such a powerful thought? Dance transcends genres and backgrounds, pulling us all into a shared experience. Who else feels emotional every time they witness such a beautiful convergence of talent? 💬
As guests mingled, sipping on spicy margaritas and chilled rosé, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Notable figures like Thelma Golden, Tyler Mitchell, and even Barbara Pierce Bush soaked in the vibrant energy of the festival’s opening night. It’s moments like these that remind us how art can bring people together, right? ✨
From Hope to Healing
Reflecting on its inception, the BAAND Together Dance Festival emerged in 2021 as a beacon of hope during the lingering shadows of the pandemic. Chanel’s ongoing commitment to the arts helped cultivate an environment where dancers and audiences could reconnect. “It was about the audience, and it was also about the dancers—about the future of dance and really believing that we were stronger together,” expressed Shanta Thake, Lincoln Center’s chief artistic officer. This is giving me major “togetherness” vibes! 🌟
The festival’s evolution is incredible, aiming not only to celebrate the arts but also to emphasize accessibility. The dancers’ humility in sharing the stage is a testament to the spirit of collaboration. “You can see it in the dancers watching from the wings; you can see it in the artistic directors talking to one another,” Thake added. Isn’t it inspiring to think about the endless possibilities that arise when creativity meets community? 🤔
A Celebration Beyond the Stage
This year, the festival is taking things to the next level by offering dance workshops curated by each company for all ages and skill levels. It’s all about sharing the joy of dance beyond the theater walls and into the streets of New York City. “This is what it’s all for. This is the best part of it,” Copeland remarked, perfectly encapsulating the festival’s mission. By reaching out to the next generation, they’re not just filling seats but creating opportunities. Who else thinks that’s absolutely amazing? 💖
As the night unfolded, joy radiated throughout the crowd and spilled out onto the steps of Lincoln Center, where a massive disco ball twinkled above. It was a night filled with laughter, artistry, and connection, proving that dance truly has the power to unite us all. So, what’s your favorite memory of a dance performance that made you feel part of something bigger? 💃✨