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Formerly Enslaved Houstonian Richard Brock Honored in Artistic Performance
February 28, 2021 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Arts District Houston has commissioned a performance series in honor of Black History Month, highlighting the rich history of Houston’s First and Sixth wards. The first performance will honor Richard Brock and the park named after him, located in the First Ward. It will be a virtual experience and will be made public on February 28, 2021, at 2:00 pm on the Arts District Facebook page. Richard Brock was a lawmaker, civic leader, and formerly enslaved man who purchased land for some of the city’s schools and public spaces. That land is now known as Richard Brock Park.
Choreographed by Lindsay Gary, artistic director and founder of Dance Afrikana, the performance is entitled “In Veneration: Richard Brock” and includes narrations by Cleola Williams. Williams, who is honored in the dance, fought for the park to be named after Richard Brock.
“Our piece was really dedicated to everything Richard Brock did to establish the institutions he built for formerly enslaved Houstonians,” said Gary.
Arts District Houston is one of 300 state-designated districts nationwide committed to attracting artists and cultural enterprises to a local community, creating a hub of economic activity that makes an area an appealing place to live, as well as visit and conduct business. Located along Washington Avenue, Arts District Houston is a part of the Houston community and commissioned this piece to retell the story of one of Houston’s oldest wards.
“We realize that we cannot tell the story of the present without examining the past and including the variety of histories that exist within the narrative. The telling of this story through dance is important to understanding and appreciating Houston’s rich history. It’s important that we celebrate pioneers like Richard Brock and the artists who help keep their legacy alive, during Black History Month and year-round,” said Marci Dallas, Executive Director of Arts District Houston.
To learn more about Arts District Houston and Dance Afrikana visit artsdistricthouston.com and http://danceafrikana.com/.
