Following in their Footsteps: Exploring the History of Jazz Arts  

Celebrate Black History 365 with the Royal Academy of Dance and the Body Of People (BOP) Jazz Theatre Company as we explore the rich history, influence, and legacy of jazz dance, supported by Wandsworth Council.

The event begins with a talk by Dollie Henry MBE, performer, choreographer, creative theatre director and educator. The talk will explore the origins and evolution of jazz dance, its cultural reach, and how it continues to influence dance styles today. This will be followed by a live performance from the BOP Company, bringing the energy and artistry of jazz dance to the stage.

Timings

6:00 – 6.40pm: Introduction to the history of jazz talk by Dollie Henry MBE and Paul Jenkins

6:45 – 7.10pm: Introduction to the piece and performance of the Daughters of Eve BOP Company

7.20 – 8pm: Introductory jazz dance workshop

Daughters of Eve

Daughters of Eve is a profound jazz-theatre work that explores the enduring legacy of the feminine spirit. Staged and choreographed by Dollie Henry MBE, the piece serves as a bridge between the ancient wisdom of the past and the intuitive power of the present day, calling for a collective reclamation of self. Guided by the rich, original musical compositions of Paul Jenkins, the work exemplifies BOP’s signature narrative theatrical style. Deeply rooted in the jazz heritage, the choreography blends expressive, soulful movement with a compelling storytelling arc. This evocative performance honours the strength of those women who came before while celebrating the resonance of the modern feminine spirit.

Body of People Jazz Theatre Company

BOP Jazz Theatre Company is a powerhouse of authentic jazz dance theatre, igniting stages in the UK and around the world since 1996. Founded by internationally celebrated choreographer, director, and educator, Dollie Henry MBE, and forged through a groundbreaking creative partnership with jazz trumpeter and composer Paul Jenkins, BOP fuses the raw energy of jazz music with the electrifying language of jazz dance.

For nearly three decades, Henry and Jenkins have shaped the global jazz landscape, creating bold theatrical works including Touches of Miles, Trumpet Trilogy, Dizzy Heights, Echoes of Ellington, and their latest triumphs, Miles Ahead, Up Close & Personal, and Jazz Conversations. BOP also produces and curates the UK jazz convention – Jazz Arts Rewired, in partnership with The Place and One Dance UK.

Internationally the company works have been commissioned and performed in Austria, Brazil, China, Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Lithuania, Lebanon, Poland, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, The Caribbean and USA. Dollie and Paul also produce and devise more commercial productions that include, musical theatre, cabaret, concert dance, film and video productions.

As a practitioner led company, BOP present an array of exciting and innovative educational jazz programs for schools and colleges, dance studios and arts organisations both nationally and internationally. The company also provides, ongoing mentoring programmes, summer jazz residencies, creative jazz dance and music workshops and seminars, that support and give access to practical and professional provision, to graduate and professional dancers and musicians to realise their potential and develop as professional jazz performers.

BOP provides a home to a creative nucleus of professional jazz artists, dancers, musicians, educators and technicians, whose overriding philosophies are to pass on the historical traditions of creative jazz music, dance and theatre making.  Rooted in rich artistry and theatrical tradition, BOP doesn’t just perform jazz, it champions its heritage while relentlessly pushing creative boundaries and inspiring the next generation through being a catalyst for the jazz art form.

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