China Smith launched her inspiring Ballet Afrique out of a desire to create a deep cultural link for Central Texas African-Americans. Black roots are too often framed in Western terms, under the heart-aching legacy and shadow of slavery. As a young dancer, Smith studied with a melting pot of movement culture: Dallas Black Dance, Puerto Rican Folkloric Dance, Kathy Dunn Hamrick, Boyd Vance, and Alvin Ailey. African dance is her heritage, and in founding the Ballet Afrique Contemporary Dance Company (as well as the Ballet Afrique Dance Academy, with classes for all ages), she's opened space to accommodate deeper roots. Too many Austin kids of color (especially African colors) have too few higher-art touchstones beyond sports, arts & crafts, or pop culture. Smith & company exist as an homage to African roots, and a fertile soil for all ages to keep them growing.
