John Muir High School's Dance program presents a Dance Concert inspired by the photography of Kwame Brathwaite.

The students of John Muir High School’s Mystics Dance Team and dance classes invite the community to experience a powerful, one-of-a-kind performance celebrating the legacy of renowned photographer and activist Kwame Brathwaite. This collaborative event, in partnership with the Lineage Dance Company and the Brathwaite Archive, will honor Brathwaite’s groundbreaking contributions to art and activism while showcasing the creativity and talent of local dancers.

Kwame Brathwaite, whose photographic work championed the “Black is Beautiful” movement, is celebrated for his legacy of empowering Black identity and culture. Through this dance performance, the John Muir High School dance students will embody Brathwaite’s vision of culture, identity, and resilience using movement to connect the past to the present. Special guest performances will come from dancers of the esteemed Lineage Dance Company, adding another layer of expertise to this collaboration.

TICKETS: In response to the recent devastation caused by the Eaton Fires, the event is committed to making the show accessible to all members of the community. Tickets will be offered on a “pay what you can” basis, ensuring that those impacted by the fires can still participate in this cultural event. All donations will go directly to the John Muir Dance Program to ensure these talented young dancers can continue participating in affordable dance programs.

From Angie Vaughn (Director of the Show): “We’re excited to share this tribute to Kwame Brathwaite and offer a space where dance can continue to bring people together, especially in times of need. Our goal is to create a lasting impact on our students and community, keeping the power of dance alive for everyone, no matter the circumstances.”

About John Muir High School Mystics Dance Team: The John Muir Mystics Dance Team is a program partnered with the Lineage Performing Arts Center and is dedicated to providing accessible and affordable dance education to the students of Northwest Pasadena. Through this program, young dancers are given the opportunity to explore various styles of dance - including Modern, Hip Hop and Majorette - develop their creativity, and build a sense of community.

Lineage is your home for connecting through the arts; a place where you're invited to find your creative voice through dance, music, theater, and other performing arts. We produce our own performances, we serve as a home for visiting artists to produce their own work, and we create opportunities to grow and advance through education.