Call for submissions: 2022 DanceAfrica festival in the US

DanceAfrica is BAM’s longest-running programme and the US’ biggest celebration of African and African-American dance, music and culture. It was established in 1977 under the artistic direction of Chuck Davis to heighten awareness of African culture. In 2015, the leadership baton was passed to Abdel R. Salaam.

The festival has evolved into an annual event that brings the community together. Each year, DanceAfrica invites a new company from Africa or its diaspora to the BAM Howard Gilman Opera House.

The performances comprise traditional and contemporary dance companies, including the students of BAM/Restoration DanceAfrica Ensemble and live music. The festival also boasts masterclasses, community events, film screenings, an art exhibition, and the one-and-only DanceAfrica outdoor bazaar – a global marketplace of African, African-American and Caribbean arts, crafts and food.

Eligibility

• Artists for the event will be selected through an open video submission process.
• Artists must be US-based African and African Diasporic dance companies (traditional/contemporary/fusion).
• Artists must be available for an in-person audition upon acceptance of video submission.
• Artists must be available for rehearsals two weeks prior to the DanceAfrica Memorial Day weekend in Brooklyn, NY.
• Artists must be available to perform during the DanceAfrica Memorial Day weekend. 
• Artists will be notified by email only if accepted, on or before 31 October 2021.

Interested artists can apply here. The deadline for submissions is 20 October.

View the original call here.