Scholarship Prep South Bay recently hosted its third annual Black History Month performance, captivating audiences with an array of hip hop numbers, lyrical, and interpretative dance along with many musical styles celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the African American community.

The event, which featured performances by students from all grade levels, showcased the school's award-winning dance program under the direction of Ms. Rickman and Ms. Ellison, with support from dedicated staff members. An encore performance was shared with students and staff at Scholarship Prep’s Orange County campus.

The evening was a vibrant tapestry of talent, with students taking the stage to pay homage to the evolution of black music and dance throughout history. The performance served as a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of music as a source of healing, hope, and resilience. The evening concluded with an exceptional guest performance by The Divas and Drummers of Compton, whose electrifying display of music and movement was enjoyed by all.

When asked about their hopes for the audience, Ms. Rickman expressed a desire for attendees to experience the full spectrum of emotions embedded within black music,

“We aim to take you through the experience of pain and heartache; while also demonstrating the resiliency and joy that is simultaneously experienced. For the students, we really wanted to shed light on the fact that music is more than what is being demonstrated nowadays. It is more than TikTok and social media, and music of all cultures and backgrounds is typically influenced by real-life experiences and is deeper in meaning than what is seen in the lyrics.”

Looking ahead, the dance program at Scholarship Prep South Bay has exciting plans, including participation in upcoming competitions. In May, the competition team will showcase their talent at the Grand Championship Competition at the Pomona Fairplex and a competition in Baldwin Park, featuring a variety of styles, including hip-hop, lyrical, and interpretative dance.

Overall, the Black History Month performance was not only a celebration of black culture but also a testament to the power of music and dance as vehicles for storytelling, education, and community engagement.