The Black Dance Experience

TBDE was first created by Rachel Simonne in 2019 in honor of Black History Month and to highlight the African Diaspora influence on Modern Dance. Initially, TBDE was in collaboration with A.H. Parker High School located in Birmingham, Alabama. Now, it is a staple event of RSIPA.

TBDE is a community conference that offers instruction and training in Black Dance from premiere instructors, artists, and performers from all around the globe. Rachel Simonne was influenced to create such a conference by the lack Black Dance at that time in Birmingham, AL. From traveling and studying, Rachel Simonne knew the importance of Black Dance on the identity of the African American community and Modern Dance.

The 2019 TBDE was taught by Michelle Gibson (Dallas, TX), Terry Wright (NYC, New York), and Giwayen Mata (Atlanta, GA). Gibson, born in New Orleans, is known for her “Buckshop” and “Second Line”. Also a candidate of Dunhan certification, Gibson taught an Afro-Modern class. Wright, born in Houston, is a dancer, teacher, choreographer, and production manager. An alumni of the Ailey school, Wright has worked with and for many companies including Ailey II and the Met Opera. At TBDE, Wright taught Beginners Horton. Giwayen Mata is an award winning percussion, dance, and vocal ensemble based in Atlanta, GA. At TBDE, Giwayen Mata taught West African Dance with live drumming.

RSIPA will continue the tradition of TBDE in the Chicago.