The Triumph Dance Company (TDC) of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and local Cincinnati-based churches are joining together to present “Suite Dance of Freedom,” an afternoon of inspirational music, praise dancing and stirring spoken word that celebrate the importance of freedom.

“Suite Dance of Freedom” takes the audience on an up, close and personal tour of the journey to freedom, beginning from slavery through the Civil Rights Movement to contemporary times of today,” states Artistic Co-Director, Charlotte LaNiear. “The spirit-filled performance features a dance repertoire that aspires to be as great as that of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Company and Dance Theatre of Harlem, and amidst the dancing are riveting spoken word interludes and music across many genres including old negro spirituals to contemporary gospel sung by the likes of Harry Belafonte, Aretha Franklin, Etta James and Mahalia Jackson to name a few,” adds Artistic Co-Director, Glendora Wilson.

The one hour praise dance experience features seven distinct numbers, including Oh Freedom, a light-hearted piece that takes place on the set of a slave plantation and provides a sneak peek into the freedom felt by slaves when their master is absent, but just a taste of their dream for true freedom; Precious Lord a powerful and tear-jerking duet to the familiar gospel tune and personal testimony of faith in deliverance; a variety of small ensemble dances including Swing Low Sweet Chariot, We Shall Overcome, How I Got Over and a children’s rendition of Oh Happy Day; as well as the uplifting finale Power Praise (Let Our God Arise Reprise), which features the entire cast in a non-stop praise fest that leaves the audience standing on its feet, cheering for more. 

“We are continually looking for innovative ways to reach new audiences and to fulfill our mission to reveal stories about freedom’s heroes, from the era of the Underground Railroad to contemporary times, challenging and inspiring everyone to take courageous steps for freedom today,” said Alphonzo Wesson of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.  “Therefore we are pleased at the addition of the Triumph Dance Company to our Music & Arts initiative and overjoyed to be working with the local church, such an instrumental partner in keeping the fight for freedom and justice alive.  “Suite Dance of Freedom” is just the beginning.”

“Suite Dance of Freedom” will take place on Saturday, August 21^st at 3 p.m. in the Harriet Tubman theatre of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, 50 East Freedom Way in downtown Cincinnati.  Tickets are $15 a person, including admission to the matinee and a post-show reception where attendees have an opportunity to meet the cast over light refreshments.  Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance by members of the Triumph Dance Company or at any of the following local establishments: Iris Book Café (1331 Main Street) and MIXX Ultra Lounge (1203 Main Street).