Step Afrika!

Experience the world’s leading authority on the art form of stepping. Step Afrika! blends percussive dance traditions of historically African American fraternities and sororities with traditional African dances and contemporary movement—creating a high-energy, inspiring performance for all ages. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of rhythm, culture, and community. 

STUDY GUIDE

NC Standard Course of Study Connections: 

Arts Education Standards — Dance K–12 

• PR.1 — Experience and explore various dance forms (percussive dance, rhythm, and body percussion)
• CN.1 — Understand how dance reflects cultural traditions and social practices (African American fraternity and sorority traditions, African dance roots)
• RE.1 — Respond to dance through movement and discussion (rhythm, synchronization, call-and-response patterns)
• CN.1.2 — Compare dance forms from various cultures and time periods (stepping vs. African dance, Irish step dance, tap)
• CN.2 — Examine social, cultural, and historical contexts of dance (stepping’s origins in African American Greek life and community traditions)
• PR.2 — Demonstrate understanding of rhythm, polyrhythm, and ensemble work
• CN.1.3 — Analyze how dance communicates cultural values and social identity
• CN.2.1 — Research cultural and historical contexts of dance traditions (diaspora connections, cultural preservation through movement) 

Arts Education Standards — Music K–12 

• PR.1 — Understand rhythm, polyrhythm, and body percussion as musical expression
• CN.1 — Explore connections between music and cultural traditions (call-and-response, African rhythmic traditions) 

Social Studies Standards 3–12 

• 4.C.1 — Explain how cultural traditions influence communities
• 5.C.1 — Understand how cultural groups have shaped American identity
• 6.G.2 — Explain cultural diffusion and how cultures spread and influence one another (African diaspora, cultural continuity)
• 8.C.1 — Analyze how cultural movements shape American society
• AH1.H.3 — Understand how various groups have shaped American identity (African American cultural contributions, HBCU traditions)
• AH2.C.1 — Analyze cultural diversity and its impact on American society 

All Durham Public Schools reservations will be made by the school-designated Arts Liaison. The Arts Liaison was appointed by each school principal to coordinate this effort. Please contact your principal for further action.

Online reservations end five days prior to a performance date. Tickets will still be sold at the box office on the date of the event, dependent upon availability. Please email us for availability at efan@carolinatheatre.org.