CLARK CENTER NYC & FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH Celebrate THE SWANS OF HARLEM

This Program supports the forgotten legacy of a pioneering group of five Black ballerinas during the formative years of Arthur Mitchell’s Dance Theatre of Harlem. A troupe of women and men who became one another’s chosen family. The cast will include the four surviving “Swans” Marcia Sells, Sheila Rohan, Karlya Shelton-Benjamin and Lydia Abarca Mitchell and in memory of Gayle McKinney-Griffith. alongside former DTH dancers, colleagues, and collaborators.

ABOUT THE CLARK CENTER

The Clark Center for the Performing Arts fostered generations of artists through outstanding faculty, scholarships, and a commitment to accessibility. Students trained with master teachers – including Alvin Ailey, Fred Benjamin, Pepsi Bethel, Anna Sokolow, Marjorie Perces, Loremil Machado, and Charles Moore – and performed in concerts at Clark Center for the Performing Arts. Classes were accompanied by renowned live musicians, enriching the environment and creating a lasting impact on the dance world.

ABOUT FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH

Created by Tina Croll and Jamie Cunningham in 1998, From the Horse’s Mouth blends dance and theater to tell the personal stories of dancers. Each production is a unique, one-time-only, legacy-based event, acclaimed for its humor, honesty, and artistry. Over 1000 dancers ages 13 to 94 have participated, including Carmen de Lavallade, Gus Solomons Jr., Mary Anthony, Brenda Bufalino, and many more.

The Los Angeles Times praised the series: “Heightened emotions and serendipitous dance moments mingle with belly laughs and bittersweet anecdotes.”

The New York Times called it; “Like dying and going to dancer’s heaven.”

EVENT DETAILS

Wednesday, October 14 from 2:00 – 3:00 Master Class with Theara Ward in basic principles of ballet. This class is free and open to all, but registration is requested.

Wednesday, October 14 from 3:30 - 5:00 A Conversation with Marcia Sells, Sheila Rohan, Karlya Shelton-Benjamin and Lydia Abarca with Karen Valby author of the book, The Swans of Harlem, moderating. This program is free and open to all, but registration is requested.

PERORMANCES: Friday, October 16 at 7PM, Saturday, October 17 at 7PM, and Sunday, October 18 at 3PM

LOCATION: THEATER at the 14th Street Y

344 E. 14th St, New York, NY 10003 (at First Avenue)

Box Office: 212-780-0800

Clark Center NYC thanks The Harkness Dance Foundation for their generous support.