Kalunga

KALUNGA

KALUNGA

Deep in the emptiness, the nothingness, where the not seen, not known forces, sparked the fire of transformation, Kalunga Shaping and forming the created, un- created, created, into form and process The universe expressed and manifested as one in its duality The over the under the upper the lower worlds where life dances in visible and invisible spaces through seen and unseen realities

Kalunga sits astride the cycle of life where it moves to the flow of the unknown to the known the known to the unknown The strict demarcation that fluidly defines the worlds, the space of the living, the space of the dead continuity Life stirs in the bowels of Kalunga, coming and going forth, spirit in the throes of birth and rebirth Kalunga is life the meeting place of all that exists, the courtship between the physical and the spiritual

In the movement of the waves the seven seas reflect the changing faces of Kalunga Fiercely gentle, calmly deceptive, spiraling movements rising and falling, the heights and depths, widening and narrowing into a spate of unification The force from which creation emerged, Kalunga birthed the world

Kalunga is the marriage of oceans to lands, wet to dry, man to woman, light to dark The many unions in balance, sending forward children swirling in prosperity Motherhood exalted in the fertility of the blue seas, the oceans, the waters, Kalunga is the force of spirit, the vitality that attended the rise of the visible realm at the IKalunga is the un potentialities, the e of life where each that forms the danc Kalunga is Kalun

Carol Miller

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER OF TOURISM, THE HON. EDMUND BARTLETT

Evolving out of the womb of our African heritage, with a blend of Spanish, British and other cultural offerings, Jamaica has emerged with a rich culture that exemplifies its motto: “Out of Many, One People ” As director, choreographer, author, actress and dancer, Dr L’Antoinette Stines is among the outstanding curators of this unique culture, which she has been showcasing to the world in dance through L’ACADCO for all of 40 years, living their motto: “Building bridges through the arts ”

The members of the ensemble have become dynamic ambassadors of Jamaican culture, through dance and are advocates for its preservation and development Over the years L’ACADCO has distinguished itself as one of Jamaica’s leading contemporary dance companies, consistently raising the bar of excellence in dance in the Caribbean An ongoing stream of accolades at home and abroad justifies this claim and the right of L’ACADCO to present itself as: “A

”

United Caribbean Dance Force

For this, your 40th Anniversary Season of Dance, the Ministry of Tourism salutes Dr Stines and the entire L’ACADCO family for the resilience you have shown, and the high standards that you have maintained throughout these four decades The Ministry of Tourism recognizes the intrinsic value of our cultural heritage, in particular dance, to the tourism product and is committed, through the Entertainment Network of the Tourism Linkages Network, to the development and promotion of the Arts There is no doubt that patrons can look forward to being entertained and engaged by the subliminal messages of the dances On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies, I extend heartfelt congratulations to you on attaining this important milestone and wish you many more years of wooing audiences with the creativity of your productions

Hon Edmund Bartlett, CD, MP Minister of Tourism

MESSAGE FROM OUR ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, DR L’ANTOINETTE STINES

I am honoured that we are able to present our 40th Anniversary Season of Daaance, Kalunga Founding, developing and presenting L’ACADCO to the world has been an extremely exciting journey Approximately 300 dancers have been trained using the technique L’Antech, many of whom have moved on to use dance as their primary professions

I have to remember the support of sponsors like GraceKennedy, IRIE FM, The RJR Group, Mother’s Enterprises, as well as the outstanding contribution of choreographers like Mutabaruka, Carlyle Hudson, Antonio Dennis, and Arsenio Andrade, to name a few

This year we are proud to have Alwyn Scott as our guest performer Alwyn like Amina Blackwood Meeks, DJ SPARKS, Fabian Thomas, Empress Golding, Christopher Daley and Donald Anderson have all added significant value to our seasons over the years and we thank them for their heartfelt contributions

My three rocks are my children Robert Anthony Stines, (attorney at law who also danced) Kalil Aaron Vereen (Grand Master drummer) who trained many of the drummers and Amanyea Stines ( dancer par excellence and choreographer) They have shared the journey which has had some amazing moments Amanyea for years has stood in the background making decisions on the threading of each show They are my gifts from God

I have had wonderful assistant directors such as Celia Jones-Hinds, Patrice Levy, Oraine Frater who now performs with Lion King touring in London and Europe, Adrian Wanlis who is now the adviser to the ballet at Die Theater Chemnitz in Chemnitz, Germany Thanks, also, to Amanyea Stines, Creative Consultant, she threaded the show, and Orville McFarlane, Creative Associate and Social Media Manager and Jessica Shaw who has been promoted to Assistant Artistic Director

I live, love and share my artistry given to me by the Divine Energies of the Universe guided by my Ancestors

My dancers are my gifts from heaven who share the trod with me

You, the audience, are my gifts from God, Oludumare, King Zambie Mpunga, Kalunga and whatever name given to the Divine in the Universe and my responsibility is to love you with my artistry

MESSAGE FROM OUR ASSOCIATE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, JESSICA SHAW

As I reflect on our preparation for L'Acadco's 40th Anniversary Season of Daaance, I think back to the journey which has brought us to ‘Kalunga’

The Covid-19 pandemic created uncertainty for the performing arts with all events and social gatherings coming to a halt L’Acadco was forced to find new ways to train and rehearse; Zoom, staggered classes, masks, and dancing in our designated boxes on the marked-out studio floor became our new normal The passion of our members kept the Force going quiet but strong

We present 'Kalunga' on the heels of our much-anticipated return to the big stage at the Jamaica Dance Umbrella festival in March 2023

L'Acadco has become a space for young dance artists to not only develop their dance technique but also to contribute to the continued legacy of Jamaican dance through L’Antech L'Antech is a modern daaance technique which emphasises the inclusion of Caribbean indigenous and traditional information The technique requires dancers to tendu and plié but also bubble and kotch, with the aim of creating dynamic, versatile dancing bodies

My time with L'Acadco from junior member to Assistant Artistic Director, helping with the leadership of the company has been a fulfilling one The opportunity to choreograph on this talented group of dancers is one I do not take lightly; I am honoured to share the space and my creative work with them

Dance is the language we use to tell our story and you will be treated to the unique storytelling that is L’Acadco

Enjoy!

Jessica Shaw Assistant Artistic Director

GA Anniversary

L’Acado is recognised as one of the Caribbean’s leading dance companies This has been made possible by the talented and dedicated artists – dancers, choreographers, costume designers, and creative directors – who have contributed their considerable artistry to the company We are using the occasion of our 40th Anniversary Season KALUNGA to show our appreciation for the outstanding roles in L’Acadco’s evolution and growth We honour Cyprian Thomas, Celia Jones, Samantha Daley, and Donald Johnson

CELIA JONES

Celia is one of L’Acadco’s most precious gifts She joined us in 1983 after attending the very first audition at the Philip Sherlock Centre that the company held in Jamaica, after relocating from Miami So, she became a founding member of the Kingston-based chapter of the company She was a gifted dancer and had her debut in the company’s first local performance which was at Zinc Fence in October of 1983 She danced in “SATTA” L’Acadco’s most popular work now considered an iconic piece in Caribbean dance repertoire

Celia was special because in addition to her outstanding dance talent, she was focussed, businesslike and had the respect of her colleague dancers I soon came to depend on her leadership skills and she very naturally evolved into being my right hand - very

sensitive, soft-hearted, comedic right hand She was appointed the company’s first dance captain in 1983, holding that position until 1990 and then moved on to be rehearsal director between 1991 and 1995 Celia served as my assistant when we went to the two-week festival in Depford in 1996 and during my six-month stint in England in 1998 She also acted as road manager for our Ghana tour in 1997, I think that is the year, and also at Cervantino Festival in Mexico 1998 when I was unable to go with the company, because I didn’t realise my passport had expired I remember one year the company was represented simultaneously in Paris and Toronto I went to the festival in France with one group and Celia went to a private assignment Canada with the other!

Even after retiring from the L’Acadco, Celia continued to support us as a company and me as a friend and confidante Thank you for four decades of loyalty and dedication

CYPRIAN THOMAS

L’Acadco takes immense pleasure in recognising the stellar work that Cyprian Thomas has done for the company in the area of costume design over the 40 years that we have operated in Jamaica Cyprian designed the costumes for several of L’Acadco’s iconic pieces including “Avia Aegyptus”, “Satta”, “Body Riddims to Bob” and “Low Mi Nuh!!!” These are only a few of the many costumes he designed over the years I am always amazed by his artistry, his attention to detail and his outstanding skills Cyprian’s understanding of what the dance is communicating and ensuring that the costume enhances that understanding is remarkable

Cyprian not only designs the clothes that the dancers wear but every element of costuming including footwear and, most important, the make up The make up on Satta is incredible and that is his work He looks at every detail even the eyelashes! I recall him designing the red, green and gold leather sandals for “Body Riddims to Bob” He is an extremely talented designer! Even more amazing is that the costumes he made 40 years ago are still being worn!

Cyprian left Jamaica and went on to work on major movies, music videos and fashion shows in North America Cyprian has not only made L’Acadco proud, but he has also made Jamaica proud His journey shows the younger generation how to use their art to live their lives and pursue their passion in crafting a profession We are proud of Cyprian and love Cyprian It is our privilege to be making this award to Cyprian

We are pocomania and pointe shoes, classical ballet and Kumina

Wi cyan butterfly and Urkel, do the tattie and world dance but also Fouette and grand battement, and execute L'Antech, Horton and Graham

Poem by Cyprian Thomas

We Are (1995)

We are Middle Passage, the African Diaspora, British Red, Independent, Brukins, Jonkanoo

We are Jamaica, Caribbean Ashanti, Coromanti, Arawak, Carib Oshun, Shango, Downtown, Uptown

We are L'Acadco

DONALD JOHNSON

Donald has given his artistry to L'Acadco for the entire 40 years of our existence The very first Season of Dance when I did not know anyone in Jamaica, Donald was introduced to me by Cyprian Thomas He has constructed costumes for Grand Gala and numerous productions in the four decades since I give thanks for his creations which dressed my dancers

SAMANTHA DALEY

at age s with ol She Cathi s Club roupe Manley rtment eurship es and Sales ited been he age th the nd has easurer e has e, Haiti, p every te and mbers, mbers stently ny and h and

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul."

– Martha Graham

THE COMPAN LACADCO

Dr L’Antoinette Osunide Stines - Artistic Director/Founder

Jessica Shaw - Associate Artistic Director

Amanyea Stines - Assistant Creative Conceptual

Orville McFarlane - Creative Associate and Social

Samantha Daley - Choreologist and Treasurer

Shaneaka Gibbs - Dance Captain

Jeneille Greenland - Dance Captain

Yakeem Reid - Dance Captain

DANCERS

Senior Company Members:

Jessica Shaw

Jeneille Greenland

Samantha Daley

Shaneaka Gibbs

Aaliyah Hall

Orville McFarlane

Yakeem Reid

Shavaughn Byndloss

Aldaine Daye

Apprentices:

Joshua Graham

Company Members:

Michael Small

Courtenay Fyffe-Williams

Krista Braithwaite

Brittany Parker

Junior Company Members:

Sundari Lynch

Kelli-Rae Ashley

Sherissa Terrelonge

Javyon Hanson

Dancers on Leave:

Tiffani Smith

Leah-Sarah Clayton

Janeille Hay

Shakeen Brown

Dadriel Bent

Guest Dancer:

Tashnie Hinds

DRUMMERS

Kemoy Outar

Reuel Philips

Stephan Sinclair

Job Clarke

Kadane Cespedes

Jovan McPherson

Ricardo Warlock

Jonathan Campbell

Ramoy Rodrigues

Jahmar Dunn

Kiandra Manfred

THEATRE AND TECHN

Nadia Roxburgh - Technical Di

Taryn Bridgewater - Costume Mis

Odain Murray - Stage Mana

Kemuel Hagley - PSCCA Tech

Leon Gill - PSCCA Tech

Chrishaun Nelson - PSCCA Tech

Geossica Madden - Volunteer

Shanique Matthews - Volunteer

Anna-Kay Jones - Volunteer

Jomo Armstrong - Volunteer

THEATRE AND TECHNICAL TEAM CONT.

Eugene Williams - Dramatic Director

Carolyn Allen - Scriptwriter

Alwyn Scott - Guest Actor

Marlon Simms - Guest Choreographer

Michelle Grant-Murray Guest Choreographer

Gavin Wright - Prop and Set Execution

Kaydeen Dyrumple - Make-Up Artist and Cost

Trudy-Anne Riley - Administrator / Fundrais

Kareece Lawrence - 3NITY - Public Relations Manage

Tarik Campbell-Markland - TC Consulting and Con

Alexandria Chin - Contributing Artist

Annastasia Chin - Contributing Artist

Jordache Jones - Dash Productions - Phot

Ian Gage - Photographer

Monica DaCosta - Photographer

Janice Riley Brown - Programme Designer

Maxine McDonnough - Programme Editor

Jevanna Warren - Grapevine Marketing &

AMANYEA STINES

ASSIST PTUALISER

Amanyea of her mother, Dr L'Antoinette Stines She grew up surrounded by dance, choreography, costume and props designing and drumming. She has developed a name for herself having choreographed, performed and toured with the likes of Shaggy, Sean Paul, Jimmy Cliff, Etana Jidenna, Cardi B, Nick Cannon and more She was a member of the Miami Heat Dance Team 2012. She has received distinctions in the Royal Academy of Dance ballet exams. Other than performing arts, Amanyea is also a producer, production manager and Creative Director on music videos, short films and TVCs with RD Studios, Washed Ashore Productions and M-One Productions She is currently the Assistant Creative Conceptualiser of L'Acadco and contributes in every area, primarily artistically by threading each show

"Always be like water. Float in times of pain or dance like waves along the wind which touches its surface. "

- Santosh Kalwar

L’ACADCO–AUNITEDCARIBBEANDANCEFORCE

LIFTING AUDIENCES TO A HIGHER PLACE APPROACHING DAAANCE FROM A SPIRITUAL SPACE

Born in the inner city of Miami, Florida and finding a home in th Avenue in Vineyard Town, L’ACADCO – A United Caribbean D regarded as one of Jamaica’s leading contemporary dance co not only represents the true essence of Jamaican culture but t with many of its members hailing from across the region includ Guyana, The Bahamas, Cuba and Trinidad and Tobago, to nam

L'ACADCO’s electrifying energy has been felt on every contine audiences with a sweet revolutionary fusion of rich Caribbean contemporary themes that leave them hungering for more.

The company’s distinctive training and choreography come fr language birthed from the consciousness of Artistic Director /F Stines. L’ACADCO’s diversity is not only evident in the skills of and stilt walkers but also in training. Performers are continuous and techniques from Africa and Cuba Many are successfully e productions and institutions of international acclaim including Theatre, Garth Fagan Dance Company, The Julliard School an Production of The Lion King.

The L’ACADCO dancers contribute to the development of Jam dance through their participation in workshops and demonstra of younger dancers Some also play a vital role in the next generation as dance teachers in high sch

L’ACADCO has toured overseas to promote Jamaican dance globally and to act as a source of information on Caribbean-based modern and traditional dance techniques. L’ACADCO has represented Jamaica as cultural ambassadors in Spain, France, Holland, China, Japan, England, Ghana, USA, Mexico, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados The company has participated in internationally acc venues such as the World Expo, Cricket World Cup opening ce Brooklyn Academy of Music, The International Association of B the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washing 2015 and, most recently, at CARIFESTA 2019 in Trinidad and T International Association of Blacks in Dance in Ohio, also in 201

L'ACADCO continues to stand true to its motto “Being the Shini while building bridges through the Arts.

Contact: Dr L’Antoinette

Stines

Founder/Artistic Director/Chore

Email: doc.stines@gmail.co

Website: lacadco com

Tel: (876) 938-2039/ (876) 3

KALUNGA

40THANNIVERSARYREPERTOIRE

EBONY HEADS (2022)

The subjugated nations had laid a golden highway acros for your ships. And across the South Atlantic our captains blood in whose swampy pools floated heads black as Eb

Choreography - L’Antoinette Stines, PhD

Music - Kevin Lax - Burning Sands Soundtrack

Costume Execution - Kaydeen Dyrumple

Dancers - Orville McFarlane, Yakeem Reid, Shavaughn B

Small, Aldaine Daye as the Orisha Olokun

-World Premiere SATTA:GIVE THANKS AND PRAISE TO THE MO

The several qualities of primordial women are glorified in that draws its vocabulary from the Yoruba/Egypto Orisha dances. This language of movement is L’Antech.

Choreography - L’Antoinette Stines, PhD.

Music - Satta Massagana, Love is out to get you & Jah-Gl

Costumes - Hester Rousseau (1985), Cyprian Thomas (1 L’Antoinette Stines, PhD. (1990 – now).

Dancers - Shaneaka Gibbs, Jeneille Greenland, Jessica S

Fyffe-Williams, Samantha Daley, Aaliyah Hall (soloist)

UNEARTH (2012)

UnEarth inspired the potent power of African-American Diasporic folk legend, purpose, function, and form of the "Bottle Tree" which can be Kemet, through the Congo, the trans-Atlantic slave trade, into Deep South (Southern part of the United States of America). "U discourse of collective and ancestral memory of the Black Fe kinetic and kinesthetic response to identity, time, space, place

unseen

Choreography - Michelle Grant-Murray

Music - Bowmboi by Rokia Traore

Costume Design - Edwena Hernandez

Dancers - Krista Braithwaite and Sherissa Terrelonge or Kelli-R

ASCENSION (2022)

Choreography - Orville McFarlane

Music - String Quartet No 5 Music for the Lodger Presto

Costume Design - Orville McFarlane

Costume Execution - Lisa Crosswell

Dancers - Shaneaka Gibbs, Jeneille Greenland, Courtenay Fy

Shaw, Aaliyah Hall, Shavaughn Byndloss, Samantha Daley, Ya

Parker, Krista Braithwaite

HOUNFOUR OF THE DRUM (1995)

The drum is the oldest instrument of man, and should receive the respect it deserves It is the drum that initiated the rituals for the abolition of slavery

Choreography - L’Antoinette Stines, PhD

Music - Anthony “Ras Happa” Wilson, Live Drumming – Kemoy Ou

Jovan McPherson, Reuel Phillips, Job Clarke, Stephan Sinclair, Kad

Dunn, Jonathan Campbell, Ricardo Warlock, Kiandra Manfred

Dancers - Samantha Daley, Jeneille Greenland, Shaneaka Gibbs, Jessica Shaw, Brittany Parker, Krista Braithwaite, Orville McFarlane

Small EVERGREEN

(2023)

Love intertwines like roots of a tree bringing two souls, hearts and b journeys separate but decidedly together They support, lean, dep roots buried deep in love that only exist deep within When momen love survives - wind, rain, floods, drought, sand, silt, sun No matter t pain, regret, hope, forgiveness, their love remains strong, it is everg

Choreography - Marlon D Simms

Music - Glimpse of Us by Joji

Poetry - "Lucky Queen, Impetuous King" and "My Girl", written and n

Costume Design - Marlon D Simms

Dancers - Shavaughn Byndloss and Aaliyah Hall or Orville McFarla

-World Premiere

FO[U]R (2018)

Michael, the protector Raphael, the healer Gabriel, the messenge

Four Archangels

FOUR Realms FOR mankind

Choreography - Jessica Shaw

Music - Joeira by Kurup, Voodoo Canyon by Tinush

Costume Design - Jessica Shaw

Costume Execution - Lisa Crosswell

Props - Christopher Shaw

Dancers - Orville McFarlane, Yakeem Reid, Shavaughn Byndloss o Fyffe-Williams or Krista Braithwaite

THERE IS NO LOVE (2023)

Choreography - L’Antoinette Stines, PhD, Shavaughn Byndloss, My

Music - Where is the Love by Damian Marley ft Eve

Dancers - Tashnie Hinds and Michael Small

-World Premiere

KALUNGA (2023)

We move through the Kikongo Kalunga line between death and th

Choreography - L’Antoinette Stines

Music - Queenie Imogene Kennedy singing Quali Quali, L’Acadco

singing Kumina – Kemoy Outar, Reuel Phillips, Job Clarke, Stephan

Cespedes, Jovan McPherson, Jahmar Dunn, Jonathan Campbell,

Manfred

Dancers - The Company

-World Premiere

ABUZUIKE (Excerpt) (2012)

Celebrates the gift of life and shares the energy of love

Choreography - L’Antoinette Stines, PhD

Music - Bap Bap rhythm created by Jovan McPherson, Shane Blak

Sinclair, and Kadane Cespedes Played by L’Acadco Drum Xplosio

Costume Design and Execution - Arlene Richards

Dancers - The Company

SPECIAL GUESTS

It is the tradition of L ’ Acadco to share our stage with talented individuals from across the world of theatre and dance . For our 4 0 th Season , we are privileged to have benefited from the skills and share spiritual bonding with Carolyn Allen , Scriptwriter ; Alwyn Scott , Actor ; Eugene Williams , Dramatic Director ; Marlon D Simms , Choreographer ; Michelle Grant - Murray , choreographer and Tashnie Hinds , Guest Dancer .

CAROLYNALLEN-SCRIPTWRITER

Carolyn Allen, a lecturer in West Indian literature and drama, is a lifelong theatre enthusiast She has taught in the Department of Literatures in English at UWI Mona, the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, School of Drama, and was tutor/coordinator of the Philip Sherlock Centre for the Creative Arts, UWI Mona (2002-2008) She serves on the Committee of the Schools' Drama Festival and is a facilitator with Jamaica Youth Theatre. She is also involved in the activities of Erna Brodber’s Blackspace and the Woodside Community Development Action Group

Her performance credits include two Jamaica Musical Theatre Company productions, three Little Theatre Movement pantomimes and over 20 years with the University Singers As a director she works in the field of education at the secondary and tertiary levels, with the secondary Schools Drama Festival, Jamaica Youth Theatre and most recently, Artribute Performing Arts

ALWYNSCOTT-GUESTPERFORMER

Alwyn Scott’s odyssey with the stage began at the early age of six with performances at Kingsgate Christian Church During his years at Half Way Tree Primary School, Alwyn excelled in Speech and Drama winning many awards in the local Festival of the Performing Arts Competition. At Jamaica College the young thespian was coached by Dennis Scott winning awards in the National Festival Competition and the Secondary School’s Drama Festival. Under Dennis Scott’s direction Alwyn performed in his first stage play, playing Sir Andrew in Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” to critical acclaim Alwyn remembers the elder Scott remarking dramatically to him backstage after an exit: “Scott….. I’m afraid you are an actor ”

It was during Alwyn Scott’s years at JC that he was selected to play a lead role in the BBC film “My Father Son Son Johnson”, performing alongside Lloyd Reckord , an up and coming Oliver Samuels, and Leonie Forbes who was to become one of his few life-long mentors. He was also a founding member of The Children’s Theater Trust (spearheaded by Bob Kerr, Natalie Thompson and Brian Heap) performing lead roles in “Mother Goose”and “Goody”

In high school Alwyn also won an OAS Fellowship to study acting at the Duke Ellington School of the Performing Arts in Washington DC

After leaving high school Alwyn entered the world of professional theatre. Among his credits are lead roles in “Labour Ward”, “Flatmate”,“Checkers”, The National Pantomime “Mansong”, “What The Butler Saw”, “The King and I”, “Flameheart”, “Hamlet”, “I Marcus Garvey and the Captivity of Babylon”,”Old Story Time”, “The Rope and the Cross”,”The Tempest”, “Bellas Gate Boy”,”Once Upon this Island”,”A Gift for Mom”. He has won four International Theatre Institute(ITI) Actor Boy awards in the category “Best Actor in a Lead Role”, and appeared at the Phillip Sherlock Centre in The University Players’ productions of “Dinner For Eleanor”,“Art”, “Tartuffe”, “Love Letters”, “Two Can Play”, and “God of Carnage” Most recently he played Martin Luther King Jr in “The Mountaintop”

Alwyn was also a member of the University Singers, performing many memorable solo parts He has been inducted in The Caribbean Hall Of Fame for excellence in the Performing Arts

EUGENEF.WILLIAMS-DRAMATICDIRECTOR

Eugene Williams was director of the School of Drama of the Edna Manley College in Jamaica for 17 years He retired in 2016

Williams is a Ford Foundation and Fulbright Scholar with an MFA in Directing (Brooklyn College – CUNY) and an MA in Performance Studies (New York University).

This Guyanese/Jamaican is known in the local and West Indian theatre fraternity for his outstanding work as a Director and Dramaturge. As director his productions include classics such as The Cherry Orchard, Waiting for Godot, A Streetcar Named Desire, The Black Jacobins, Playboy of The West Indies, An Echo in The Bone, Moon on A Rainbow Shawl and Ti Jean and His Brothers.

He has also directed successful Caribbean musicals such as Arawak Gold (Jamaica), Lukume (Toronto) and A Wanna Fall (Trinidad). As Dramaturge he has worked with some of the Caribbean’s foremost playwrights such as Trevor Rhone and Dr Michael Gilkes

His publications include The Anancy Technique – A Gateway to Postcolonial Performance (Caribbean Quarterly Journal Vol. 63, Nos. 2 & 3. Jun. – Sept. 2017); Some Personal Reflections: Trevor Rhone, Griot; Caribbean Writer: The Literary Gem of The Caribbean University of the Virgin Islands, 2010 He has presented lectures on his research and laboratory work on a Caribbean performance technique - The Anancy Technique - at various academic institutions including Rutgers o) and the University of the West Indies (Sir Philip

rk in regional theatre: the Silver Musgrave medal in guished work in Drama Education; he was inducted tstanding contribution to Anglo-Caribbean Theatre; 2018 for outstanding achievement in the field of

MARLOND. SIMMS-GUESTCHOREOGRAPHER

Marlon D. Simms is the artistic director of the National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC) of Jamaica and the Dean of the School of Dance at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts where his specialisation is choreography, performance and dance education. He is a choreographer and dancer and has been an educator for over two decades He has performed, facilitated workshops and choreographed locally and internationally. He has also toured extensively with the NDTC and as a solo performance artist across the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe and Japan

MICHELLEGRANT-MURRAY-GUESTCHOREOGRAPHER

Michelle Grant-Murray, a Georgia Peach and hybrid Florida Mango, is an independent choreographer, performer and Artistic Director of Olujimi Dance Theatre. She studied at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Clark Center, Jacob’s Pillow and influenced by notable artists and scholars such as Dr L’Antoinette Stine, Reginald Yates, Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, Carole Boyce-Davies, Donald McKayle, Michael Vernon, Rennie Harris, Nora Chipaumire and the legendary Miss Katherine Dunham. Michelle holds a BS degree in Dance Education from Jacksonville University University, MA degree in African Studies with a concentration in Pedagogy and Cultural Studies from Florida International University and MFA degree in Choreography from Jacksonville University

Michelle, Artistic Director of Olujimi Dance Collective (Theatre), has performed and presented her work in Europe, Asia, South America, the United States and the Caribbean. She is currently an Artist in Residence with Live Arts Miami where she has been commissioned to create a new work, “RoseWater ” This work explores the intersectionality of environmental racism, carbon footprint, water ethics, and land gentrification She is an Artist-in-Resident at Deering Estates and Miami Light Project

Michelle is an Associate Professor and Coordinator of Dance at Miami Dade College where she is the Artistic Director of Jubilation Dance Ensemble.

Michelle is the founder and host of The Black Artist Talk, a conversation that dialogs the creative process, politics, and preservation of Black Artists in South Florida She is the Founder and Executive Director of the annual Artistry In Rhythm (A I R ) Dance Conference presented and sponsored by Miami Dade College.

She has developed and implemented Olujimi Dance Technique, a unique blend of contemporary and traditional modern dance styles infused with elements of African Diaspora Dance Movement forms The aim of this process is to develop the physical, mental and intellectual body from a humanistic perspective Additionally, Michelle has developed a unique choreographic process, Ancestral Dance Movement Memory (ADMM). ADMM explores movement that seeks to go beyond the collective memory of the present physical body and imagine the future utilizing the ecology of spirituality to reveal the essence of human nature. Currently, Michelle is researching the performative intersections of Eco-feminism, Ecology, and Sustainability which live in the antiquity of the Black Female Body

Michelle is committed to the developmental voice of the Black Female Artists

TASHNIEHINDS-GUESTDANCER

I began taking dancing seriously when I was about 10 years old at the Mona preparatory school I then joined a company called ESOR Dance Ensemble for my prep school years and early high school. After that I danced with the Ardenne Dance Troupe Dance has always ignited my soul and I can’t imagine life without the ability to dance I auditioned with L’Acadco when I was 16 years old and to this day all my experiences with the company brings me joy I am extremely grateful to have been apart of such a family. I am humbled, honoured, excited and nervous, all at once, to be on stage this season. I look forward to this journey

J E S S I C A S H A W

R DANCERS

JESSICASHAW,ASSISTANTARTISTICDIRECTOR,JOINEDIN2009

“My mother lit the dance fire at age three Ms Stines and L’Acadco have consistently added fuel to that fire since joining the company fresh out of high school. Performing and educating locally and internationally has been one of the greatest rewards of being with the company L’Acadco has become the space where my foundational dance training thrives L’Antech has found a home in my body and spirit I have been given the opportunity to lead the company as Assistant Artistic Director and though I have gigantic shoes to fill, my experience thus far has been guided and supported L’Acadco will forever have a piece of my heart ”

“I saw the company performing “Binghi” and fell in love When I started, I did not feel technically ready, so I took a year off and then came back Doc Stines saw something in me and put me in “L’Antech Meets Reggae” I am now at the senior level performing major roles. The L’Antech dance language represents freedom in movement. It is the first technique that allows you both to use your hips and the modern technique Doing L’Antech allows me a voice as a male Jamaican dancer” S H A V A U G H N B .

SHAVAUGHNBYNDLOSS,SENIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2018.

JENEILLEGREENLAND,SENIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2007

“It was my first year of college and I remember coming home for the summer holidays I ran into an old dance mate from high school and told her I needed somewhere to take some dance classes while home. She recommended L’Acadco. When I told my parents, my father said, ‘Yes, that’s where I want you to go, I know you are going to love it’ The following day he drove me to 39 First Avenue and the rest is history Who thought that taking classes for just the summer would have led me here today ”

AALIYAHHALL,SENIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2017

“I began dancing seriously at age 12. I auditioned for L’Acadco at age 18 and joined the company I found the space to be very special, I feel safe and at home I believe that I have grown tremendously in the six years since I joined the company. Highlights of my journey with the company include the 2018 Season Daaancing Crystals, the IABD tour in Dayton, Ohio in 2019 and performing at CARIFESTA in Trinidad and Tobago in 2019 ” A A L I Y A H H A

SHANEAKAGIBBS,SENIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDTHECOMPANYIN2018

S H A N E A K A G

“I came from Grenada to the Edna Manley College to study dance. There I was sighted by Doc Stines and she invited me to join the group. If an individual is on a quest to find yourself this is the place to do it It helps to unite body and spirit This place reminds you that you can never lose you Dance is an eye opening experience in which the possibilities are endless. I am the best version of myself with dance. My dream is to go as far as dance can take me.”

ORVILLEMCFARLANE,SENIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2012

“My experience with the company began when I saw them perform “Hounfour of the Drums” at the first staging of Jamaica Dance Umbrella. Coming from a background of traditional folk forms and popular dance, the fusion of the traditional and modern dance in “Hounfour” made me eager to be a part of a space that encapsulated all those forms I auditioned twice before joining the company Since then, I have performed and toured with the company Now, as a senior company member and choreographer, I am excited about the future of L’Acadco.” O R V I L L E M

YAKEEMREID,SENIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDTHECOMPANYIN2012

“I was first introduced to dance whilst attending Ardenne High School, and subsequently, the space was populated by past L’Acadco members I instantly fell in love with the technique, L’AnTech L’Acadco is a home away from home I see L’Acadco as an extension of my family and hope to one day give back to the space, the same way the space has poured into me.”

SAMANTHAANNEMERCEDESDALEY,SENIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2007

“Adrian Wanliss, a member of L’Acadco invited me to a class and I never looked back. L’Acadco is a family, a supportive space. I have grown at L’Acadco and gone through life changes good and bad The company is home to the most humble, yet passionate and fierce dancers you can find They are perfectionists It demands dedication and hard work and engenders growth, self awareness, confidence and truth to self. I will continue as long as possible with L’Acadco. I will continue to support the company even after I retire. S A M A N T H A D

ALDAINEDAYE,SENIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2008

“At L’Acadco, I learnt about the greatness of Black people. I learnt the discipline that the movement structure of L’Antech placed on the body I find L’Antech fascinating and I am always ready to tackle the challenges it places on my body There was a time when I considered giving up dancing, but Ms Stines supported me in honing my skills in dance. It was a gift. A highpoint of my time with L’ACADCO was performing in Washington where we got a standing ovation The audience was overwhelmed ”

K E L L IR A E A .

KELLI-RAEASHLEY,JUNIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2023

“I am very proud of myself for taking a leap of faith and auditioning for the company Dancing with L’Acadco has been nothing less than rigorous and encouraging. The training is very meticulous and takes a lot of focus. I am excited to see where my dance career will take me in life, having further developed my skill set at L’Acadco ”

K R I S T A B .

KRISTABRAITHWAITE,COMPANYMEMBER,INVITEDTOTRAINWITHL’ACADCO IN2019ANDBECAMEAFULLMEMBERIN2021.

“L’Acadco is a space in which to grow and harness individual abilities while learning to work as part of a unit and to push yourself. It is like the growth of a butterfly. I found L’Antech challenging, but when you get it, you get it It pushes you beyond your limits and capabilities It is a blend of different genres coming together as one My main goal is to master Lantech. At L’Acadco, I have grown as a dancer, a person, and a leader and being here has opened up national and international opportunities for me.”

C O U R T E N A Y

COURTENAYFYFFE-WILLIAMS,COMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2020

“With L’Acadco I am achieving the things I set out to do –mastering new movements and performing more widely with opportunities to perform on corporate stages, in films, commercially and internationally L’Acadco is a space in which one can grow, a space which constantly challenges one to incorporate body, mind and spirit. It is a space that fosters and encourages you to look within and to connect your soul and movement in a way that helps you to communicate at a higher level with your audience ”

“I was initially hesitant when Dr Stines asked me to take a class with the company because I felt I wasn't technically ready, and I wanted to perform at my best In the few months that I've been training with her, Dr Stines has taught me a great deal. I've learned to respect the studio as it fosters growth under the direction of senior members and herself. I have much respect for Dr Stines and L'Antech and I'm excited about what the future holds for me ”

B R I T T A N Y P .

“I followed L’Acadco on Instagram and went to all the company’s shows Shaneaka invited me to a L’Acadco workshop Jessica invited me to the L’Acadco space for classes. I’ve been in the space since 2020 but officially became part of the company in 2021. I experienced L’Antech culture shock for a year I found it beautiful and hard and challenging to accommodate the movements It was an amazing experience, I learnt so much about technique as well as about myself I love the family feel of the company. The members are supportive and caring, fellow dancers look out for me, I never feel alone.”

JAVYONHANSON,JUNIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2023.

BRITTANYPARKER,COMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDTHECOMPANYIN2021

“Doc Stines taught my mom at Edna Manley College and I followed the company on Instagram so I was familiar with what the company was doing. I saw auditions advertised in 2021 and came. At first, I was intimidated but Doc Stines and fellow members were very helpful, very supportive I have seen myself grow I have enjoyed learning the L’Antech technique and look forward to learning the entire repertoire The members are like mentors Even if I am upset, five minutes into being here I am healed. It is a powerful space. There is no one quite like Doc Stines as a teacher or mentor.

S H E R I S S A T

"I was first introduced to the company by Miss Jessica who is now the Assistant Artistic Director. When I started, I just wanted to find a new space where I could grow and not feel as though I was regressing I really didn't know what I was getting myself into but as soon Miss Stines warned me that I might experience some culture shock and when I had my first class I knew that this was the space I needed to be in to grow. I am honoured to be sharing a stage with such wonderful and talented souls "

SUNDARILYNCH,JUNIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2021

SHERISSATERRELONGE,JUNIORCOMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2022.

MICHAELSMALL,COMPANYMEMBER,JOINEDIN2021

“I wanted training that would allow identification with my Africanness and to make me better connect with my roots. L’Acadco has preserved their heritage through dance and culture and so facilitated that connection. Being in L’Acadco allowed me to share the stage with several Jamaican and Caribbean choreographers and has inspired me to advance my journey in choreography L’Acadco is a catalyst for transformation for any dancer. L’Antech has created a system that ensures that future dancers will have the opportunity to experience the dance system. I would like to teach L’Antech ”

OURDRUMMERS

Front Row (L-R): Job Clarke, Stephan Sinclair; Middle Row (L-R): Kiandra Manfred, Jonathon Campbell, Kemoy Outar; Back Row (L-R): Ricardo Warlock, Kadane

Cespedes, Jovan McPherson, Reuel Phillips

Lower right - Jahmar Dunn"

Kemoy Outar

“I joined the company in 2006 on advice of my teacher. Being in L’Acadco for over 17 years, I’ve experienced and been a part of a lot of major productions The company has taught me how to be patient and resilient.”

Reuel Phillips

“I joined L'acadco in 2013 with the idea of being a part of a culture of uniquely talented people. Traveling on tour, going to Carifesta and even the seasons of dance has allowed me to showcase my talent and I give thanks for this journey.”

Job Clarke

“My experience at L'Acadco has been enjoyable and entertaining The choreography topped with musicality is nothing but creativity at its best.”

Stephan Sinclair

"To watch L’acadco dance and hear our drummers play is to hear our hearts speak. The dancers communicate through a language beyond words, expressing precise emotions and feelings for which we have; no words could truly express. Dance for L'acadco is the hidden language of the soul of our ancestors The company works and lives from the inside of the souls of each of its members and for this the members themselves constantly strive to produce a glow that lights not only themselves but audiences after audiences in every arena "

Kadane Cespedes

“Being a part of L’Acadco as a drummer for the past 10 years has been nothing but pure joy. I’ve seen the impression that L'Acadco have made both locally and internationally each time they made an appearance on a stage Such level of class, quality, creativity and talent and I’m truly happy to be a part of this phenomenal company ”

Jovan McPherson

“I have been drumming in L’Acadco for over 10 years and it has taught me so much This experience has allowed me to meet other drummers who share the same cultural backgrounds and now I can call them family.”

Ricardo Warlock

“As a recent addition to L'Acadco as a drummer it has been and continues to be a spiritual movement. Watching and being a part of the creative process and watching it come alive on stage brings immense joy ”

Jonathon Campbell

“L’Acadco has opened my understanding of music and dance in general The company has made me understand the difference between people who can dance and dancers ”

Kiandra Manfred

“As a recent addition to the drummers, I love being a part of the L’Acadco family. It is such a welcoming, loving and caring group Being a part of this group has brought me nothing but joy and happiness.”

Jahmar Dunn

“The first time I saw L’Acadco drummers perform was at my high school in 2015 at St Andrew Tech Right then and there I was fascinated by the performance and wanted to be a part of the company. I took the time out and googled the company and got a contact number for Dr Stines, I called and introduced myself and asked if I could join the company as a drummer, I got a date for the next rehearsal and from that day until now I’m grateful and happy to be a part of the company as a junior drummer”

S TO OUR SPONSORS

"Every day brings a chance for you to draw in a breath, kick off your shoes, and dance "

― Oprah Winfrey