WE ALL HAVE THAT THING…
That something that everyone told us was amazing, and we promise them (and ourselves) that we’ll definitely check it out. We may circle it on our calendar, or bookmark it online, or even add it to a wishlist of sorts. We say we’ve been meaning to listen to that album, or go by that museum exhibit — only for the seasons to change without action being taken.
For me, Step Afrika! was that thing. I’d seen the heralded company’s promos and presses and even bumped into its founder, the ever-cordial C. Brian Williams a few times. So many times I’d convinced myself that I’d be attending one of SA’s numerous year-round performances; not because anyone expected me to, but because I knew the quality and enjoyment that would accompany the modest ticket prices.
Then came the announcement of this season’s Magical Musical Holiday StepShow…and I was all. in.
Because fate is funny like that, it turns out I was also being sent to film part of the show as supplemental video material for a show that I edit/broadcast design/damn near produce singlehandedly for PBS.
NO MATTER WHAT BROUGHT ME THERE, the important thing to say is that the show is EVERYTHING.
From the stage/set design, to the music, to the awe-inspiring choreography and scene transitions, you can tell how much love, blood, sweat, and tears are poured into every second of the performance…and just how much talent is permeating throughout the dance company itself.
If you haven’t been yet, check out their website for upcoming performances before they hit the road again!