Frequency: Sending out prayers through dance
This expression comes from my soul and radiates outwardly. When we struggle to find the words we move. The vulnerability and freedom in letting our thoughts be released through the creativity of improv dance. This dance is sacred to me and has been sacred to my ancestors. To attract the energy I want I must find and create this energy in ME.
Watch the Performance
Reflection Questions
- Toyin shares, "Dance is sacred to me and has been sacred to my ancestors. This is the way we communicate, celebrate, and mourn in our circles." What practices have been sacred to your ancestors? What practices are sacred to you? How do they support you in challenging times?
- Toyin's piece centers the art of improvisation. Many Black art forms including rap, hip-hop, breakdancing, samba, jazz and so many more are rooted in the art of improvisation. What would it look like for you to practice and play with some sort of improvisation today? Whether that is moving freely to your favorite song, cooking a meal completely based on intuition, or free writing without censoring yourself. How will you tune into the art of improvisation today and let yourself play without fear or limitations?
About Oluwatoyin "Toyin" Sogunro
Oluwatoyin "Toyin" Sogunro
Dancer & Educator
Born and raised in the D.M.V. Oluwatoyin Sogunro, better known as Toyin, is a professional dancer and educator; a cultural ambassador of Black street dance and club dance forms. Toyin spends her time traveling extensively to different urban arts communities globally, broadening her perspective and understanding in all sorts of dance forms. As well as sharing her own talents and teachings in these spaces. Most, if not all of her work, revolves around preserving the authenticity of Black culture through street and club dance.
Interview with Toyin
What are some of the ways you use dance to share messages with your community?
Culturally, we dance socially within our communities. This is the way we communicate, celebrate and mourn in our circles. I continue that tradition today and actively nurture my relationship within that by contributing honestly and respectfully.
How do you practice radical joy and liberation?
Being a Black woman, society has perpetuated the stereotypes of us always being angry. This is unfair and extremely damaging in the way this makes us feel the need to mask our emotions, trying to appear less intimidating. I've learned that true love begins with finding self-love, exploring spaces that allow me to grow mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Reminding myself to take a moment to breathe and connect to Mother Nature and moving with the intention to live in my truth.
What movements, practitioners and thought leaders influence your work?
Growing up my parents often played music from artists that sang from the soul and had messages that spoke with authenticity, like Bob Marley, Fela Kuti, Sarah Vaugh, and Patti Labell. From my foundation I've been inspired to move from my soul and creative from an honest space to hopefully connect and leave an impact in the ways these artists have.