Tufts Blogs

Through my experiences in Tufts groups and clubs, I have quickly learned to appreciate the extent of collaboration between other Boston schools in the area. This past weekend was no exception. The dance group I am a part of at Tufts: Harlem Grooves, was asked to perform at Wentworth Institute of Technology’s annual fashion show, AURA, in honor of Black History Month. AURA would be featuring clothes from Black owned clothing lines or pieces created by Black student designers- the goal being to elevate exposure of Black art and fashion. In between the segments of models, various artists were invited to perform- among them Black singers, musicians, and artists. Harlem Grooves was lucky enough to be asked to join this incredible event. With the mission of Harlem Grooves being to uplift and celebrate historically Black dance styles, our group's personal mission aligned perfectly with that of Wentworth Tech’s fashion show. In the weeks leading up to this weekend, our group got together to create a piece to fit the theme and message of AURA using some of past choreography to inspire a new creation. In Harlem Grooves, I am lucky to be surrounded by talented and creative dancers of all different dancing backgrounds. This group has been the biggest way I have met students in other graduating classes- some of which I would consider my closest friends. After only a couple rehearsals with these amazing dancers we were confident in our creation and excited to share our art beyond the Tufts community.

On Saturday morning, our group carpooled over to Wentworth Institute of Technology! If we didn’t have all our costumes and extra things to carry we easily could have taken the SMFA shuttle or the Green line which all stop incredibly close to Wentworth. One incredible thing about Tufts having certain campuses further into Boston, is that you are immediately part of the larger Boston school community, with endless resources and opportunities at your fingertips. Everything is so interconnected! After finding parking nearby which is always tricky in Boston we were welcomed by the organizers and hosts of AURA. We were given time to practice our dance in this new space and showed to our dressing room that we shared with some Wentworth students. Not only was it so special for our group to be invited to an outside performance but also to meet other students- other creators- living right within our larger Boston circles who shared our same passions. It was also a great day for members of Harlem Grooves as we spent the entire day bonding and enjoying each other’s company. Food was provided for us so while we ate and waited for other groups to practice their performances we killed some time playing hangman and pictionary! As it got closer to show time we started doing our make-up and getting ready to go on stage. The community we experienced backstage from other groups even as guests was so supportive and uplifting. We cheered each other on until the end until heading back to campus at the end of the night.

Overall, the day highlighted the ability to collaborate with and experience countless events and communities within the Boston area. With so many schools nearby, it is easy to share the creations of your own community while being inspired by those around you. Within similar events at Tufts in honor of Black history month, it was a privilege to be a part  of that experience for another school.