In all of the theaters that I've attended, The Joyce is unique in that it is intimate, the front-of-house staff is personable, and not only is equity and inclusion stated with a mission, it is also acted upon in collaboration with artists, students, and the community.
An artistic institution, and more specifically, a dance presenter, such as The Joyce, is needed in the NYC community to be a model for all generations who support the arts. From presenting Dada Masilo's Swan Lake last year to presenting Hawaiian company, Hālau O Kekuhi next season, The Joyce not only states diversity in its mission, it shows action in its stylistically and racially diverse company offerings and its artistic and scholastic support opportunities. The School and Family programs department, to my knowledge and from the Times, supports youth from all socioeconomic backgrounds, and recently, had a collaboration with Parsons Dance and the Theatre Development Fund to be the first dance theater to present accessibility programming in New York City. The community outreach throughout Chelsea/Meatpacking District is definitely a first for an artistic institution in the neighborhood. Just want to give kudos to them for their staff's hard and humble work. This is AMAZING!
Upon attending The Joyce's offerings and seeing them progress, they have caught my attention as more than just a dance presenter, but rather a model for positive change in the arts community and for fellow students like myself. I give 5 stars for now, and infinitely more for the future! Cheers...
Read moreRONALD K BROWN EVIDENCE at The JOYCE Theater...IS MUST SEE, LISTEN and FEEL Dance Performance!
Beautiful People,
Last week I went to The JOYCE Theater to witness a performance of the RONALD K BROWN EVIDENCE Dance Company. The JOYCE Staff was warm and welcoming.
Instead of merely witnessing, we went on a journey of healing and hope. The storytelling, the music, the costumes, and lighting set the stage for us to receive the energy of the magnificent dancers.
Blending African dance with contemporary choreography filled with ying and yang energetic and technically challenging movement and dancers with personalities; those of us in the audience were invited to experience a range of emotions.
We laughed and cried through HIGHLIFE. We identified and felt moved by MERCY. We embraced Divine Love through GRACE.
And having journeyed for 2 hours with these exquisite dancers while reflecting on our own personal stories, (our conflicts and hardships, our joys, our struggles, our hopes and dreams)...
At the end of the Finale of GRACE, We All Rose, and Clapped with Full Hearts.
Then Artistic Director, Ronald K. Brown joined the dancers on stage. And Again They Danced and We the Audience Were Inspired to Dance In Gratitude! BRAVO! BRAVO TO ALL INVOLVED IN CREATING A MAGICAL, MEANIFUL, MEMORABLE EVENING at The JOYCE !
Live & Love...
Always, Melony 💚 aka Miss Mellie Rainbow 🎊
#BlackDance #RONALDKBROWNEVIDENCE #RonaldKAlexanderDanceLegend #TheJOYCETheatre #MelonyMcGantAuthor #Courage #Healing...
Read moreJudging by its unassuming exterior, one might mistake it for a local neighborhood theater, but upon stepping inside, you discover a vibrant community powerhouse for dance and music. Nestled in an upscale, progressive-chic neighborhood accessible via MTA A and C trains and the M55 MTA BUS, it proves to be a gem.
The neighborhood itself boasts a safe environment with numerous bars and eateries. Accessibility is commendable, especially for those in powerchairs or using a manual one. The theater's wheelchair access includes a flat roll-in, security-manned entrance, and both ticket usher and box office are easily accessible. The staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful.
While the lobby is on the smaller side and can feel cramped, the seating options are accommodating. With in-place or removable accessible seating on both wing sides (right and left), the theater strives for inclusivity. Restroom accessibility remains uncertain as I haven't utilized it.
The performance auditorium is impressively spacious and comfortable, adorned with pleasant lighting and colors. Accessible seats are in the sixth orchestra row and offer an unobstructed view. Over time, I've had the pleasure of witnessing performances by local, regional, and internationally acclaimed companies, making it a versatile and enjoyable reasonably priced venue...
Read more