Recently, Ramsay High School students got into the groove within the initiative of celebrate #BlackHistory365. Their celebration of Black History consisted of a full out production that took audiences on a ride that felt like a full-fledged concert.
Choreographer and Program Director, Mrs. Jackie Lockhart, told us, “I’d like our youth to embrace the reality that Black History happens everyday and that people of color are invaluable members of society. I want us to recognize the Anti-Blackness movement that is still afoot and the need to remain vigilant and control our own narrative.”
The Ramsay High School Department of Theatre and Dance presents “Musicals, Motown and More: A Celebration of 100 Years of Excellence in Arts Entertainment” featured Ramsay Fine Arts students, Ramsay alumni and community artists.
This production highlighted iconic songs that opened the door for many African American artists and created a movement that changed American culture, influenced Broadway and the music industry. The performance featured vocalist Ruth Randall and dancers Malika Lyles, Markielah Lyles and John Lockhart, along with parent volunteers and other local professionals who were the oil behind the performance engine.
Parent volunteer Delon Woods told us, “Being able to come back to assist the new generation of kids who have their own version of fun and dive into their outlook of Black History has been interesting. It’s been a very calming process that isn’t just a Black History program but a production show. I hope our kids really take time to dive into their Black History, and we don’t want history to repeat itself in the negative aspects.”
Audiences viewed and heard everything from classic TV commercial audio along with inspired homage to the successful Broadway musical “Bubbling Brown Sugar” and national broadcast voices that brought light to visuals seen by our foreparents in the 60s, 70s and 80s.
Mrs. Lockhart also told us, “I am passionate about enlightening youth about the numerous contributions African-Americans have made and how those accomplishments have impacted arts, entertainment and American culture.”
We surely enjoyed the various performances, atmosphere and support shown to the students, teachers and parents by all. As we celebrate 250 years of America, we salute the 100 year anniversary of Black History within our American society.
Mrs. Lockhart checks with production team
