Kabuki Dancers present ‘The Breakdown’ for Black History

The Kabuki Dancers were in Eunice this week, at Central Middle, Eunice Junior High and East Elementary celebrating Black History Month.
The Kabuki Dancers are a group of performing artists from the Acadiana area of Louisiana. Using a mixture of dance, drums, and spoken word, the goal of the group is to entertain and excite while delivering a positive message to their audience.
Who are the Kabuki Dancers? A group of dancers spreading positivity through dance. The Kabuki Dancers’ aim is to help future generations by performing for youths through dance, spoken word and live drumming.
The Kabuki Dancers purpose and mission is to create a better life for kids. As a group, they have performed and competed at various festivals, stage shows and competitions throughout the nation.
Their highlights include: Jazz Fest, The Apollo Theater NYC, as well as part of the 2013 Super Bowl half-time activities.
Locally, they work within libraries and public school systems.
On Tuesday, The Kabuki Dancers presented middle school students at Central Middle, “The Breakdown.”
“The Breakdown,” is a lesson on Hip-Hop history, and a program which began in honor of Black History Month, but the dancers perform it year-round.
In honor of Black History Month, they had put together a program that focuses on the history of Hip-Hop and the important figures that pioneered the culture. The program included a discussion on the elements of Hip-Hop (and their respective pioneers), demonstrations, and they gave an opportunity for students to join in on Hip Hop dance at the conclusion of the program.
The Kabuki Dancers present different programs for their audiences. Their first program, “Never Give Up!”, focuses on achieving goals through hard work and determination. “Drop The B.E.A.T (Bullying Ends After Talking)” is an anti-bullying program featuring live drums, spoken word poetry and dance. And, “Shots Fired”, a new project motivated by the recent surge of youth gun violence. With this program they hope to educate audiences on how to channel negative emotions into self-expression through art and creativity.
The Kabuki Dancers included Terrance Morgan of New Iberia, one of the co-founders; Torrez Hypolite of Lafayette “aka Dance Machine,” Jude Romero of Lafayette “aka Juice Jones,” and Morgane Prejean of Lafayette “aka Queen Meaux.”