NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA)  announced "Dizzy Spellz," a captivating performance blending jazz, tap, and hip-hop, presented by MOSAIC, MCLA's public program dedicated to open arts and intersectional culture. 

 

Featuring the celebrated trumpeter Sean Jones and the dynamic tap dancer Brinae Ali, "Dizzy Spellz" will take place at the MCLA's Venable Theatre on Sept. 27 and 28, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. 

 

According to a press release:

 

"Dizzy Spellz" explores the themes of Afro-Futurism, a genre that envisions a future through the prism of Black culture and identity, while paying homage to the groundbreaking legacy of jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie. This performance fuses the innovative spirit of jazz with the rhythmic precision of tap and the energetic flair of hip-hop, creating a multi-faceted artistic experience. 

 

Sean Jones, acclaimed trumpeter and Artistic Director of Carnegie Hall's NYO Jazz, will honor Dizzy Gillespie's influential contributions to jazz. Gillespie's pioneering work in bebop and his role in shaping the evolution of jazz serve as a key inspiration for the performance.  Joining Jones is Brinae Ali, internationally renowned for tap work on Broadway's Shuffle Along and many other projects.  Ali is acclaimed for her mesmerizing footwork and seamless integration of hip-hop elements. Her performance will highlight the future-facing vision of Afro-Futurism, celebrating both historical roots and innovative possibilities through her exceptional dance. 

 

Presented by MOSAIC, this performance is part of MCLA's commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic cultural dialogue. Tickets for "Dizzy Spellz" are on sale now and can be purchased through a link on the MOSAIC website at www.mcla.edu/mosiac. Tickets are $20 for the general public, $10 for MCLA alumni, and free to MCLA student, staff and faculty.   

 

"We are thrilled to bring this groundbreaking performance to our community," said Director of the MCLA's MOSAIC program Jeremy Winchester. "Sean Jones and Brinae Ali are remarkable artists whose work pushes creative boundaries and celebrates the rich legacy

of Dizzy Gillespie and Afro-Futurism." 

 

For more information about "Dizzy Spellz" and to purchase tickets, please  www.mcla.edu/mosiac.