Black Joy In Movement: The Katherine Dunham Juba Dance Festival

By Ray Bassett

Published June 6, 2024 at 12:00 AM EDT

From a performance of the Juba Dance Ensemble.

In modern dance, Katherine Dunham is a pioneer.

She contributed African and Caribbean influences to the genre - confronting racial barriers along the way.

Here in Chattanooga, this month’s Katherine Dunham Juba Dance Festival is part of the Chattanooga Festivals of Black Arts and Ideas.

Crystal Newson is artistic director of the Juba Dance Ensemble.

Banner for SOBI Art Chatt featuring the Juba Dance Ensemble.

Banner for Black Joy performance by the Juba Dance Ensemble.

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