Events
Legacy in Motion: Honoring Pearl Bailey through Dance, Dialogue, and Community. An Artist talk with Joan Myers Brown, Sarah Conway, and C.B. Murray, moderated by Lindsay Reneá Benton
Thursday, July 31st
6:30pm – 8:30pm
Join us for a special evening celebrating the life, career, and cultural legacy of the legendary entertainer Pearl Bailey. As a complement to “AAMP Presents the Pearl Bailey Showcase,” an archival exhibition from the donated Pearl Bailey and Louis Bellson Collection, this one-night-only event features an intimate multi-generational artist talk between four award-winning artists whose lives and work intersect with Bailey’s enduring Legacy.
Together, these panelists will explore Pearl Bailey’s legacy through storytelling, personal memory, and performance history. From Las Vegas showrooms and Broadway stages to family dinners, the discussion will highlight Bailey’s pioneering role and cultural significance as a Black woman navigating the world of entertainment in the 20th century. Following the talk, guests will have the opportunity to explore the exhibition and enjoy light refreshments in the Museum’s gallery.
Legacy in Motion Dance Workshops featuring Lindsay Reneá Benton and Musiqology
Saturday, August 2nd
11:0am – 4:30pm
For Kids – 11 AM – 12:30 PM
Kids ages 7–13 are invited to join dancer Lindsay Reneá Benton for a fun and energetic two-hour dance workshop inspired by the music of Pearl Bailey and her famous friends! Benton is the former principal dancer for the Tony-Award nominated Garth Fagan Dance, and appeared in many on-screen performances, including the motion pictures The Color Purple and Coming to America 2. She is also the founder of the Notnebia Dance Company and the Lindsey Reneá Dance Theatre and School.
In this upbeat session, young dancers will learn cool moves set to jazzy, toe-tapping tunes while exploring the fun and flair of classic Black performers from the past. With Benton’s exciting teaching style and positive energy, kids will dance, laugh, and express themselves while learning about an important part of American music and dance history.
No experience needed—just bring comfy clothes, your creativity, and a love of movement!
Adults – 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Inspired by the Sounds of Pearl Bailey & Friends, this program will be accompanied by live musical performances by Musiqology Media Group. This collective is devoted to producing powerful art that stimulates meaningful conversations within the artistic community and beyond.
Join award-winning dancer Lindsay Reneá Benton in collaboration with Musiqology for a dynamic two-hour dance workshop celebrating the music and spirit of Pearl Bailey and her legendary peers. This high-energy session invites dancers of all levels to explore movement inspired by the soulful rhythms, jazz, and theatrical flair that defined an era.
Drawing from the iconic sounds of Pearl Bailey and her contemporaries, participants will learn choreography that blends classic jazz dance with modern expression. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to move and connect, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to embody the music, stories, and cultural impact of Pearl Bailey and friends—right on the dance floor.
