HERstory 25: Writing HERstory

Debbie Allen proudly presents HERstory: in honor of Women's History Month, a month-long celebration of the power of women. Showcasing a rich collection across fine arts, film, music, dance, and fashion, HERstory transcends perspectives as this celebration documents a diversity in heritage that parallels identity, femininity and the connection of our inner and outer worlds.
Join us March 23rd at “Writing HERstory” an invitation to reclaim the narrative, reflecting on personal experiences, challenges, and victories. Through powerful writing, these women give voice to different journeys, offering perspectives that shape a fuller, more diverse understanding of the world. By telling these stories, we not only preserve histories but also support up-and-coming along with the next generation telling HERstory.
Doors: 4:30pm
Panel Discussion: 6:30pm
"Sext" is a comedy short film about a young woman named Zayna who is romantically interested in a man whose number is not saved. When he asks Zayna to send him a photo, she requests a photo from him first to stall for time.The mystery man, better known as “Unsaved Number” attempts to send Zayna a sexy photo but is constantly interrupted by his obnoxious friends. After sending his photo and kicking his friends out, he patiently waits for Zayna to return the favor. Following several attempts of trying to show off her "sexy" side, Zayna gives up and sends a basic photo instead. A disappointed “Unsaved Number” expresses his frustrations to Zayna which ultimately turns into a virtual argument. After taking some time to compose herself, Zayna is finally able to send a picture that she feels represents the real her. Writer/Director: Kierstyn Stevens

"Red for Revolution" (38min) is a six-part audio drama centering intergenerational stories of Black women, queer love, and liberation starring Jordan Hull, Loretta Devine, S. Epatha Merkerson, Rutina Wesley, Renée Wilson, Alimi Ballard, Jennifer Beals, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Danny Glover, Vanessa E. Williams, adrienne maree brown, Caro Guzmán, Don Daniels, and many others. The heart of the story follows the passionate love affair between jazz singer Lorraine Giovanni and activist Ella Ali. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of Jazmine, an 18-year-old grappling with her queer identity, first crush, and the delicate task of mending her relationship with her homophobic mother. Writer/Director: Jana Smith

"PLAY HARD" (14min) tells the story of Nate, a jazz drummer whose quest for perfection stifles his creativity—until he meets Yazmine, a modern dancer who reshapes his views on work and artistry. The film stars Grammy-nominated artist Daniel "Dsmoke" Farris and "Grey's Anatomy" series regular Alexis Floyd. It's executive produced by Lena Waithe, Hillman Grad, and 271 Films. "It's my love letter to artists everywhere, reminding us that our creative work is nothing if we lose our sense of play." Writer/Director: Winter Dunn
This event is 17+. All attendees must reserve a ticket/seat in advance.

Debbie Allen Dance Academy is a 501(c)3 non profit organization that offers a comprehensive dance curriculum to students ages four and up. With an extensive outreach and influence in communities broadening to all depths of the artistic process, DADA is proud to serve as a creative epicenter of the arts in our new home, Rhimes Performing Arts Center.
*please note this event is a part of a month-long event series, with different programming each event, RSVP accordingly please*

Host or Publisher The Debbie Allen Dance Academy