By: Ava Eilish Paolino '25
This year's production of “What is Black” was nothing short of extraordinary. The show was not only rich in culture, but in joy, storytelling, and liveliness. The theme of “The Vibrancy and Impact of the Afro-Caribbean diaspora” was so brilliantly articulated through song, dance, and spoken word.
Mahlah Abudu '24, Isabela Rosario ‘24, and Hallie Leveque ‘24 truly deserve their flowers for working so hard to make this show the phenomenon it was. As the senior leaders, they not only shined on stage, but were the backbone for the whole production. The student led aspect to this show is what makes it so special. Reflecting on these past few months, Isabela said, “leading ‘What is Black’ this year has been such a dream, knowing that I've always wanted to be a part of this production.” When talking with the seniors and watching them in action during a rehearsal, it is evident that they are extremely passionate about this project. “It really is just a dream come true to see all of our cultures being portrayed in such a positive light,” said Mahlah. This show allows students to be able to share their culture and identity with the rest of our Chez Nous community in a way that would touch anyone's soul through the power of music and dance.
Between the Chez Nous Steppers, Glee Club, the sophomore choir and the dance ensemble, every aspect of musicality in this show was incomparable to any other ND show. The Chez Nous Steppers opened the show with a powerful step routine, setting the tone for the rest of the show. The drum group Bomba Ro led an amazing dance connecting to Puerto Rico, and I even overheard an audience member saying that the performance reminded him of his childhood. The Glee Club gave an amazing performance of “La Luna en tu Mirada” with soloist Dana Aguirre ‘25, and the sophomore choir joined in for a song with Bomba Ro. With any given moment in the show, you would never know what was going to happen next. This shows just how many cultures were highlighted within this show. The ending by the dance ensemble was my personal favorite. On the stage were the members dancing in joy, showing off the Caribbean flags, while the audience was going wild. The upbeat music and energetic dancers even compelled some of the audience to join in on the dance! As parents and teachers were standing up and clapping along, it was the perfect way to end the show.
Productions like this require many long after school rehearsals with much preparation by everyone involved. However, this is a time not only for learning, but for bonding. Raegan Sullivan ‘25 said “Doing the dance on the actual day is so much fun, but really the rehearsals are what are so near and dear to my heart.” Through this experience, the students are able to create bonds between upper and lower classmen, while being united over the passion they have in sharing Black history. Angel Kaba, the professional choreographer for this year's “What is Black”, felt a connection to this project. When asked why this show was so important to her, she said “it gives the students an opportunity to really express themselves, especially around a topic that's important with what's happening in the world right now. I think the school, Ms. Waka, myself, the team, and the students are doing an amazing job really showcasing talent and a unique voice”.
Apart from the singing and dancing, there were other amazing additions to the show. One striking moment was the showcase of an amazing fashion collection of street wear combined with her heritage and African heritage made by Notre Dame graduate Monica McKenzie ‘19. There was also the contribution of spoken word poetry by our very own Ms. Vargas! Her poem left everyone touched, while adding sparks of relatability that amused the audience.
This show was so full of educational exultation, bringing light to the darkest of times in history and finding excellence in the brightest. Next year, the seniors will pass the torch to the next group of “What is Black” leaders, and it will surely not be an event to miss. Stay tuned!
Sources: Photos by Ava Eilish Paolino '25
Edited by: Schona Dhawan ‘25, Katarina Radulovic '24 and Ms. Brilliant
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