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“Steps and Stripes” was developed by Footworks to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Star-Spangled Banner coming up in September 2014. The show, which includes many guest artists and outstanding musicians, highlights and cele ates the multicultural history of Baltimore and Maryland. Irish music and dance, along with African music and dance, illuminate how these diverse cultures met each other in America and led to some of the beautiful and uniquely American music and dance. Clogging and tap, along with swing dance, modern dance and hip-hop dance, help to create a visual timeline of Maryland’s history. The production also includes new and original songs connecting to musical eras of Baltimore and to honor the poet and author of the national anthem, Francis Scott Key.
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Special guest artists include Sankofa Dance Theater, African music and dance; The Good Foot Dance Company, Irish, swing, and tap dance; and Baakari Wilder, renowned tap dance artist. In addition to the Footworks' five-piece band, guest musicians include Steve Bloom, Jabari Exum, Elizabeth Melvin, Vince McCool, Catherine Marafino and Peter Brice.
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Footworks, founded in 1979, has remained true to the traditions of Southern Appalachian music and dance while cele ating connected roots and anches. Each principle artist adds to the authenticity of Footworks' presentations by inging his or her own cultural background in traditional arts. Each ensemble member is also committed to teaching and supports the company's dedication to Arts-in-Education. The company continues to grow and evolve, securing the funds to create new works and productions. The company is dedicated to inging live music and the power and joy of percussive dance to audiences the world over.
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Maryland Hall is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of Maryland and the National Endowment for the Arts, and a grant from the Arts Council of Anne Arundel County. Additional support comes from sponsors including: COMCAST, Inovalon, Inc., ARINC, Bay Ridge Wine and Spirits, Towne Transport, Verizon, Wells Fargo, Sandy Spring Bank, M&T Bank, Loews Annapolis Hotel, Severn Savings Bank, Corporate Office Properties Trust, The Law Offices of Alexander & Cleaver and BankAnnapolis.
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For more information or to order tickets, contact the Maryland Hall Box Office at 410-280-5640 or visit www.marylandhall.org. Box office hours are Monday - Friday from noon – 5 pm. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts is located at 801 Chase Street, Annapolis.