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Dance queen to present 'Mr. TOL E. RAncE' in Richmond

9/9/2014, 6 a.m.
“Mr. TOL E. RAncE” is described as a show that employs humor to examine “the mask” of survival and the ...
Award-winning dancer Camille A. Brown and her troupe are recognized for the daring nature of their work.

Modern dance queen Camille A. Brown is bringing her troupe to Richmond to perform “Mr. TOL E. RAncE.”

The dancer will present the show 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, and 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at VCU’s Grace Street Theater, 934 W. Grace St.

“Mr. TOL E. RAncE” is described as a show that employs humor to examine “the mask” of survival and the “double consciousness” of the black performer and the stereotypical roles that dominate popular black culture.

As one critic put it, the show “examines the external and internal challenges black artists continue to face.”

This is a show for older teens and adults. A portion of “Mr. TOL E. RAncE” contains profanity, mature language and material not suitable for children under 14, according to the sponsoring VCU Department of Dance and Choreography.

It’s the latest work from Ms. Brown of Queens, N.Y., who has built an award-winning company that seeks to tell stories linking history and current pop culture, according to E. Gaynell Sherrod, department chair.

Ms. Brown’s shows have gained a reputation for theatrics, high energy and gutsy moves, accompanied with virtuoso music, Dr. Sherrod stated.

Ms. Brown is best known for mingling modern and African dance, hip-hop, tap and ballet in her works, Dr. Sherrod added.

Tickets are $20, with a $5 discount for students.

The appearance of Camille A. Brown & Dancers is being supported with a grant from the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, an anonymous gift and VCUarts.

Information: (804) 828-2020 or www.arts.vcu.edu/gracestreet.

Separately, Ms. Brown also will conduct a free community master class for dancers ages 14 and up 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, at The Depot, 814 W. Broad St. Interested parties should email dancenews@vcu.edu to attend.