Hope Boykin, a petite, curvy Black woman with a shaved head, gives the camera a mischievous, close-mouthed smile. Her palms are pressed together with her fingertips resting against her lips; her elbows are propped on her knees as she leans forward where she sits, arches popping against the floor. She wars white trousers and a denim button-down with the sleeves rolled to her elbows.

First As a Performer and Now As a Choreographer, Hope Boykin Has Nurtured Her Unique Voice

Watching Hope Boykin dance is like watching a musical score come to life: Her speed, her clarity, and her innate understanding of music have captivated audiences for more than three decades. But that outwardly spectacular performer has always nurtured her inner voice, too. In her post-performance life, Boykin has begun to share that voice through choreography, spoken word, and writing.

all male ballet class following teacher in center

4 Artists of Color Step Into Leadership Roles

Janine N. Beckles, Clifton Brown, Kiyon Ross and Helanius J. Wilkins span generations and geographies. All four have recently transitioned into leadership roles, in dance companies and, for Wilkins, a university theater and dance department.

Debora Chase-Hicks, Philadanco and Alvin Ailey Pioneer, Dies at 63

A pioneer with both Philadanco and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Debora Chase-Hicks died on May 6 at age 63 following a brief but serious illness. Chase-Hicks was a kind, gentle soul who loved life and the people in it. The gift of her artistry touched the lives of all those with whom she came […]

News of Note: What You Might Have Missed in October 2020

Here are the latest promotions, appointments and departures, plus notable awards and accomplishments, from the last month. Comings & Goings Kim Y. Bears-Bailey has been named artistic director of Philadanco. Founder Joan Myers Brown is now artistic advisor; Janine Beckles assistant artistic director; Donald T. Lunsford II artistic director of D/2. Wayne McGregor has been […]

News of Note: What You May Have Missed in July 2019

Here are the latest promotions, appointments and transfers, plus notable awards and accomplishments from the last month. Comings & Goings Tigran Mkrtchyan has joined Boston Ballet as a soloist, Chisako Oga as a second soloist. At English National Ballet, Aitor Arrieta, Katja Khaniukova and Ken Saruhashi have been promoted to first soloist, Julia Conway, Daniel […]