9/7/26 O&A NYC BLACK FACTS: The Origins and Magic of the HBCU Marching Bands

Why do HBCU halftime shows feel so intentionally different from the expected military-style performance? Seemingly every part of an HBCU marching band, from the marching style to the majorette choreography to the music selection to the drum major expectations, is of an immediately identifiable, unique style. Continue reading

8/25/26 O&A NYC INSPIRATIONAL TUESDAY: A Choreographer’s Brief But Spectacular Take On Life And Movement

In his Brief But Spectacular feature on PBS NewsHour, visionary choreographer Alonzo King shares his profound perspective that movement and sound are everywhere and fundamentally identical. As the founder of the San Francisco-based Alonzo King LINES Ballet, King explains how dance makes thought visible, rooted heavily in his upbringing by prominent civil rights activist parents. Continue reading

8/21/26 O&A NYC SHALL WE DANCE FRIDAY: Meet Guilluame Diop – The Paris Opera Ballet’s First Black Danseur Etoile

Guillaume Diop is a French ballet dancer who made history in March 2023 by becoming the first Black dancer promoted to “Danseur Étoile” (star dancer)—the highest, principal rank within the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet. Born in Paris in 2000 to a French mother and a Senegalese father, he is celebrated globally as a technical prodigy and a prominent cultural symbol of modernization and diversity in classical arts. Continue reading

8/19/26 O&A NYC DANCE REVIEW BY WALTER RUTLEDGE: Joyce Ballet Festival – Week Two

By Walter Rutledge

The Joyce Ballet Festival finished its second week of performances on Sunday August 16, 2026. As we observed in week one the festival was an evening of short, well-crafted vignettes that had the look and elan of a gala event. The ambience continued in week two with a rich duet by a European master, a story ballet classic, and inspiring works by contemporary choreographers and emerging dance makers. The sophomore week did not have the same build as week one. This was most apparent in Act One which featured three cleanly crafted works and Roland Petit. Continue reading

8/18/26 O&A NYC WALESTYLEZ SPORTS REVIEW SPECIAL: Amar’e Stoudemire’s Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Speech

Amar’e Stoudemire delivered an emotional, career-spanning enshrinement speech following his official induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2026. Continue reading

8/16/26 O&A NYC SUNDAY MORNING FUNNIES: The Richard Pryor Show – Mojo Healer

Richard Pryor shows up with energy and comic timing as Mojo The Medicine Man, who attracts his cult with the divine words “Let Mojo heal it!” Continue reading

8/15/26 O&A NYC GOSPEL SUNDAY: Dottie Peoples – Oh Lord Let Me Lean On You

Oh Lord Let Me Lean On You is a powerful traditional gospel anthem recorded by the legendary Dottie Peoples alongside The Peoples Choice Chorale. Released in 1996 on her acclaimed album Count On God under Atlanta International Records, this soul-stirring track showcases her signature dynamic, powerhouse vocals and a deep, unwavering message of faith, spiritual reliance, and comfort. Continue reading

8/15/26 O&A NYC SATURDAY MORNING CONCERT: Rhythmetron: The Dance Theatre of Harlem with Arthur Mitchell (Part 1&2) 1973

Dance Theatre of Harlem founder Arthur Mitchell shares his unique gifts of leadership, civic pride and his love of the young people of Harlem. This historic 1973 lecture-demonstration film showcases the early artistry, discipline, and educational mission of the Dance Theatre of Harlem – America’s Black classical ballet company. Continue reading

8/9/26 O&A NYC GOSPEL SUNDAY: More Abundantly Medley (Live)

More Abundantly is a landmark traditional gospel song by Ricky Dillard & The New Generation Chorale (New G). First released in 1990 on the album The Promise, this song helped establish Dillard’s reputation as a powerhouse Choirmaster in the gospel music industry.
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8/8/26 O&A NYC DANCE REVIEW BY WALTER RUTLEDGE: Joyce Ballet Festival Curated by Misty Copeland

By Walter Rutledge

What better way to conclude the Joyce Theater spring/summer 2026 season than with a ballet festival curated by dance treasure Misty Copeland. The two-week, fourteen performance series began Tuesday August 4 and runs through Sunday August 16. Two programs will be presented, one each week. Continue reading