Uptown Choreographers Juggle Politics and Pride at Harlem Showcase

This series showcased multi-ethnic dance makers emerging, evolved, or established in the game. Sita Frederick, who can act, dance, and sing, put on a one-woman show of sorts in her BitterSuite. In 10 minutes she gave us candy, costumes, comedy, props, and commentary with a political edge. Ditching ridiculously high platform boots, a green military uniform way too big for her, a black mustache, and a thick Spanish accent, she revealed her small frame in short shorts and a halter top. Her legs and midriff bare, she appeared less dynamic than the character she'd portrayed earlier, her movements ranging from a chain of traveling turns to grounded contractions and swiveling hips, danced to a recording of traditional Gaga music performed by Boni Raposo. Camille A. Brown's Shelter of Presence set five black male bodies moving to a spirited gospel medley by Take 6. Brown's attention to detail, and the intense pride on the faces and in the posture of these men, made the dance fulfilling to watch.