The Momentum University Performance: Harlem Renaissance

Thursday, July 26 at 5:30 p.m. on the Columbus Commons Stage

Photos by Kathryn D. Studios

The Momentum University dancers want to take you on a journey, with movements that transport you to another time and another place: Harlem in the ’20s.

Every year, Momentum University students put on a free, summer performance at the Columbus Commons. But Thursday’s presentation is unique. This year they’ve challenged their students to create a show that tells the story of the Harlem Renaissance.

“I think the key thing for this year is that they will be part of this larger, community-wide event,” Liane Egle, executive director of Momentum-Excellence, says. “For many of these kids, this will be their first exposure to this important historical time.”

This show is the product of an arts summer camp called “Momentum University.” For the past two weeks, a group of about 60 students participated in different types of dance and performing arts classes.

The students also had the chance to listen to speakers such as Larry James, Barbara Fant and Suzan Bradford Kounta. The students have taken all that they learned and created a unique performance.

At the end of the day, though, this show is about more than dance.

“Even though we’re a dance program, it’s really about using dance as a vehicle to impart life skills like self confidence and perseverance and discipline,” Liane says. “The goal is not to teach kids the dance steps. The goal is to help them feel better about themselves and have confidence. That’s what the program is all about.”

“The goal is not to teach kids the dance steps. The goal is to help them feel better about themselves and have confidence. That’s what the program is all about.”

Liane says that performances are an excellent time to witness the impact that this program has on the kids.

“It’s so powerful to see kids all doing the same choreography when they come from very different backgrounds,” Liane says. “Talking about it gives me chills. You see the smiles on their faces and the confidence and that pride.

“Our mantra with the kids is the big four: Work hard, do my best, never give up and be healthy. They know that if they work hard, then this is the result of that. And that’s something that transfers beyond just dancing on a stage. That’s a life lesson.”

The Momentum University performance takes place Thursday, July 26 at 5:30 p.m. on the Columbus Commons Stage. It is free and open to the public. Here is where you can find more information.