DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM RAISES $1.3 Million

 DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM RAISES $1.3 Million

TO PROVIDE ARTS EDUCATION, COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAMS

AND FOSTER DIVERSITY IN THE ARTS

 

The Annual Vision Gala Honored Misty Copeland, Terri Prettyman Bowles & Alvin Bowles

and Celebrated the Organization’s 55^th Year

Black excellence in motion. That's the best way to describe Theatre of Harlem's The Vision Gala, held last Friday, in New York City. 

The Black tie affair was at capacity with invited guests gathered together to honor trailblazers in the arts and philanthropy.

Renowned ballet dancer Misty Copeland received the prestigious Arthur Mitchell Vision Award, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to the dance world. Civic leaders and philanthropists Terri Prettyman Bowles and Alvin Bowles were also lauded with the Virtuoso Award for their unwavering support of the arts.

In a remarkable show of generosity, the organization surpassed last year's fundraising efforts, raising an astounding $1.3 million. These funds will directly benefit the Dance Theatre of Harlem's mission, supporting arts education, sustaining a world-class school, and fostering a diverse ballet company.

"Let's continue to dance, to dream, and to build a world where every child has the opportunity to discover their passion and reach for the stars through dance," declared Misty Copeland as she graciously accepted her well-deserved award.

The evening kicked off with a captivating performance curated by newly appointed Artistic Director Robert Garland. Highlights included a moving tribute to Co-Founder Arthur Mitchell, featuring a special rendition of "Balm in Gilead" by guest vocalists accompanied by Nathaniel Gumbs on piano. 

The Dance Theatre of Harlem Company and School wowed the audience with their artistry, accompanied by renowned composer and classical pianist Chloe Flower. A special homage to Misty Copeland, featuring Teaching Artists from the Misty Copeland Foundation, added an extra layer of significance to the event. 

The program also featured iconic works by George Balanchine, William Forsythe, and the highly anticipated New York premiere of "Take Me With You" by Polish dancer and choreographer Robert Bondara, set to music by Radiohead.

Founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, the Dance Theatre of Harlem emerged as a beacon of hope and opportunity during the civil rights movement. Through performances, community engagement, and arts education, the Company continues to uphold its legacy of empowerment through the arts, inspiring audiences and artists alike to reach new heights.

Anna Glass Janet Jackson Robert Garland - Courtesy of DTH.