RDT holds dance symposium

The late Astor Johnson, a National Award holder, was the founder and artistic director of the RDT.

The AJRDT is in the process of reviving the profound and timeless work of Johnson and will host its first dance symposium entitled “Astor Johnson...

Awake his Legacy” at the University of the West Indies Learning Resource Centre tomorrow from 9 am to 3 pm.

The symposium will commemorate Johnson’s life and legacy more than 30 years after his passing and advocate and foster an emphasis on dance and dance education, as a career choice.

Speakers and friends of Johnson, including poet Eintou Pearl Springer will participate.

Among the features are a video compilation by Christopher Laird of an interview and dances choreographed by Johnson; reflections by past AJRDT members; a drumology, representing a key musical component of many of Johnson’s pieces and a discussion about dance education and the business of dance.

The symposium will also offer an opportunity for young and upcoming AJRDT members to perform one of Johnson’s signature pieces, “Ceremony of the Drum”.

The public is invited to attend and to make a donation to support and keep Johnson’s legacy alive.