G.R.I.T Arts Showcase ’16

April 20, 2016—The Maya Angelou High School cafeteria transformed into a scene from New York Fashion Week, complete with red carpet runway, high-end fashion, traditional African drums, special guest artists, dancing, and original pieces of art and poetry. The students, staff members, and artists in residence worked tirelessly to ensure that the GRIT (Growth Rooted In Transformation) Fashion Show would go off without a hitch.

Mr. Barber and Ms. Sampler put in countless hours making sure the students knew the timing, their cues, and the choreography that went along with fiercely strutting down a runway. Ms. Bell and Ms. Chapin-McGill along with several artistically talented student artists created the backdrop that complimented the clothes, music, poetry, dancing, and modeling flawlessly. Ms. LaRussa along with guest artist Mr. Joseph Ngwa worked to hone the students’ musical abilities in order to accompany the dance team and the traditional African modeling scene with traditional African Djembes. Ms. Wescott and Ms. Hall highlighted the dance team beautifully with traditional and modern choreography, and star student Shy’Drea Burriss executed her dance solo with amazing skill, energy, and exuberance. The spoken word club’s Natalie Washington and Dajah Clayton debuted original pieces of poetry that had an incredibly powerful messages. Ms. J’s braiding club enhanced the look and feel of the showcase infusing it with African tradition. Finally, Mr. Taylor and the photography club along with guest artist Mr. Jerome Beaner captured the essence of everyone’s hard work and dedication with (several) clicks of a button. Also, I would be remiss if Ms. Ayanna Gregory did not receive proper accolades. Her incredible performance took this already amazing display of talent to the next level.

This showcase truly embodied the talent and potential that resides within the four walls of Maya Angelou High School. All of the students involved were committed to creating and executing a flawless show. They truly saw how much goes into making a great show and rose to the occasion, most without hesitation. Also, the demonstration of support from both students and staff members showed that we are all here for a common cause. Receiving this grant that brought us all together, even if physically just for one night, joined the staff and students in spirit forever.

–Lauren Larussa

Click through the gallery below!

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