In its 104 years of existence, the historical white building behind the Marketplace has been used as a gym, a cafeteria, a laundromat and a nightclub. Now, it seems the Ark has settled on its identity as an energetic dance studio.
This Saturday, that energy will reach a new level when the Ark opens its doors for 12 hours of non-stop dance for Community Dance Day.
Dust off those old ballet slippers or tap shoes, because from noon to midnight, the Ark will be filled with all varieties of dance--jazz, ballet, bellydancing, African, tap, hip-hop, modern, Middle Eastern, capoeira, English country dance and any other performances that might spontaneously arise. Open and free to the public, the extravaganza draws performance groups from all over North Carolina, ranging from professional troupes to high school squads.
This new tradition began as a 24-hour celebration for the Ark's 100th anniversary in 1999, and since has become a favorite event of Duke students and Durham residents alike.
"Originally, we just wanted to invite anyone in the state to come perform and send new vibes into the Ark for the next 100 years," said Barbara Dickinson, the program's director. "It's an open day where anyone who wants to perform or watch can."
The event will open with an African dance master class led by Ava Vinesett, and will end with a Capoeira workshop by Grupo Capoeira Brazil. Other participatory events throughout the day include an English country dance performance and a dance workshop for children and their parents.
Join in! Call 660-3354 to schedule your performance time, or drop by
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