Edmonton, AB – In celebration of Black History Month, Alberta Ballet is partnering with Africa Centre to promote diversity in the arts and create new opportunities for young dancers. This initiative offers youth ages 7-13+ within Africa Centre’s network the chance to explore ballet through a beginner dance program, fostering creativity, confidence, and self-expression.
Aligned with this year’s Black History Month theme, “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations,” this program encourages Black youth to embrace the arts, access new opportunities, and build confidence in creative spaces.
“Children and youth of African descent, especially newcomers, often face barriers to the arts,” says Salome Asea, Africa Centre’s Director of Programs and Accountability.
“This six-week program with Alberta Ballet offers over 40 youth of African descent a unique opportunity to explore ballet—whether it’s experiencing it for the first time, overcoming financial barriers, or seeing themselves represented.”
This initiative is a perfect fit for Alberta Ballet Community, which is committed to breaking down barriers in arts accessibility. The program will culminate in an exclusive Movement Workshop with dancers from the renowned Dance Theatre of Harlem, who will be performing in Edmonton on February 21 and 22.
“Representation matters,” says Taryn Samson, Director of Community Programming for Alberta Ballet.
“Dance Theatre of Harlem has been a trailblazer in making ballet a more inclusive space. We’re excited to collaborate with Africa Centre to inspire the next generation and support their creative journeys.”
Program Highlights:
🔹 6-Week Beginner Ballet Program (January 11 – February 15, 2025) – Funded by Alberta Tourism and Sport’s Every Kid Can Play grant, this program introduces youth to foundational ballet techniques in a supportive and welcoming environment.
🔹 Movement Workshop with Dance Theatre of Harlem (February 19, 2025) – A rare opportunity for participants to learn from world-class DTH artists and experience the discipline, artistry, and cultural richness of ballet.
Media Invitation: Movement Workshop with Dance Theatre of Harlem
📅 Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium (Main Lobby Entrance)
11455 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB
Media representatives are invited to attend the Movement Workshop to capture the impact of this unique experience. To RSVP or request interviews, please contact Communications@AlbertaBallet.com by Tuesday, February 18.
Media Contacts:
📍 Alberta Ballet
Kim Bradley, Communications Advisor
📧 Communications@AlbertaBallet.com
📍 Africa Centre – Edmonton
Rahma Dalmar, Communications Manager
📧 Communications@AfricaCentre.ca
About Alberta Ballet Community
Alberta Ballet Community is a division of Alberta Ballet, dedicated to making dance accessible to underserved youth ages 3-16. Through free, inclusive programs, Alberta Ballet Community promotes physical, mental, and social well-being, fostering creativity and self-expression in communities across Alberta.
About Africa Centre
The Council for Advancement of African Canadians in Alberta (CAAC), operating as Africa Centre, is Western Canada’s largest pan-African charitable organization. Since 2006, Africa Centre has provided culturally responsive programs and services that promote economic, social, cultural, and educational development for African descent communities in Alberta.
This partnership marks a powerful step in increasing diversity and representation in the arts, ensuring that more young people see themselves reflected in creative spaces. Together, Alberta Ballet and Africa Centre are fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for the next generation of dancers.
