Anticipated to be dynamic and emotionally resonant, this year’s rendition of “Sankofa” is poised to enchant the spectators.
Taking charge in the vibrant corridors of the Roxbury Center for the Performing Arts was Andrea Herbert Major, stepping into her role as director one Monday afternoon. Adorned in an all-black ensemble accentuated by pink pointe shoes mirroring her Barbie-pink manicure, she meticulously supervised a series of dance routines in a wooden-floored studio.
The dancers, ranging from the youngest at 6 to the eldest at 70, were elegantly dressed in black attire, showcasing a variety of updo hairstyles—from braids to cornrows, buns, and puffs. Under Herbert Major’s guidance, the ensemble diligently rehearsed a medley of dynamic routines involving leaps, turns, and fluid hip movements in preparation for the forthcoming performance of “Sankofa.”
Since 2016, Herbert Major and the Roxbury Center for the Performing Arts (RCPA) have annually showcased “Sankofa,” a captivating fusion of dance, music, and spoken word. This year, the long-standing production returns to Dorchester’s historic Strand Theatre with a revitalized vigor.
“The core of the show revolves around the narrative of Black Americans—spotlighting their challenges, victories, contributions, and aspirations,” elucidated Herbert Major, the creative mind behind the dance school established over five decades ago. “My objective is to narrate a story that not only entertains but also enlightens the audience, particularly the younger generation, offering them a historical lens through the performance.”
In readiness for the March presentation of “Sankofa,” dancers diligently honed their craft at the Roxbury Center for the Performing Arts, eagerly perfecting their routines.
The performance showcases a diverse array of dance sequences infused with lively rhythms from various African nations, interspersed with poignant depictions of historical events, particularly those intertwined with slavery. Major stresses that incorporating Black history into “Sankofa” is crucial as it bridges the generational understanding of ancestral struggles.
The genesis of “Sankofa” seven years ago stemmed from Herbert Major’s deep-seated apprehensions and frustrations.
“Amidst the global upheaval and senseless violence against Black individuals, it seemed as though our worth was diminished,” she expressed. “I envisioned that by reconnecting Black individuals with their roots and heritage, it could spark a profound transformation.” This vision also propelled the establishment of her dance school in the 1960s, evolving into a prestigious institution over the ensuing decades.
Inspired by the profound legacy of Alvin Ailey’s seminal production, “Revelations,” Herbert Major breathed life into “Sankofa,” a show that this year pledges to be both vibrant and emotionally evocative. She envisions “Sankofa” enduring as a timeless legacy that transcends her own lifetime.
While “Sankofa” predominantly amplifies Black narratives, Herbert Major underscores that the performance resonates universally, offering enrichment to all spectators.
“I sincerely hope that the audience revels in the sheer delight of the performance,” she remarked. “I want them to depart with a sense of wonder, proclaiming, ‘That was truly extraordinary.’ And I eagerly anticipate welcoming them back next year to witness the evolving narrative.”