African America Dance: Camille Brown's New Second Line

Camille A. Brown is an acclaimed dancer, choreographer and director. She is known for elevating African American identities, stories and cultures through her dances. When you hear the music begin, what does it remind you of and where have you heard this kind of music in African American culture?

What does this movement remind you of? Describe it and tell us where you've seen movement like this before?

When a choreographer decides to add in one dancer after another to a pattern, this choreographic device is called...

• canon

• call and response

• accumulation

• doing a solo

Why do you think umbrellas are carried in Second Line Dancing in New Orleans?​ (a)   ​ (b)   ​ (c)   ​ (d)  

• To keep dancers cool
• To show off one's distinctive style
• To signify joyful celebration
• To symbolize protection from ancestors or God
• As a sign of death

Answer explanation

A True New Orleans Tradition No Mardi Gras Party Can Do Without!

Carrying an umbrella for shade in New Orleans, especially before the days of air conditioning, was very common, making an umbrella or parasol an accessory of choice for many southern ladies. Add to that the heat generated by a lively second line stroll; and the idea of carrying an umbrella or parasol becomes even more enticing.

Second line umbrellas, especially those unique and handmade, have come to flaunt attitude and personal style, twirling and spinning with rhythm of the band in celebration and jubilee! So grab your umbrella and get in the dance line!

Sacred movement looks like movements that are set apart for holy purposes or from things that are divine. Secular movements could look like they are non religious, from the street , the club or from everyday life. Do you see that this choreography includes movements that are both sacred AND secular? Describe what you see.

??

A Second Line dance is a vibrant, improvisational street dance, part of New Orleans' famous Second Line parades. A Second Line event features a "first line" (the band, honoree, and organizers) and the "second line" (the public followers) or revelers who follow the "first line" or a brass band, twirling handkerchiefs or parasols in a joyful, rhythmic strut to celebrate from weddings to jazz funerals, blending African and European traditions into a uniquely expressive communal party.  

Dancers perform a unique, free-flowing style, often incorporating footwork, swaying, and waving objects or even mourning the passing of a loved one. Describe these elements you see in Camille Brown's choreography.