New York is Burning

by Les Ballet Afrik, Choreographed by Omari Wiles

September 6 | 7pm

Torn Space Theater – 612 Fillmore Ave. Buffalo, NY 14212

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Blending the fearless spirit of ballroom with African diasporic traditions, house, and contemporary dance, this powerful work, rooted in the legacy of the legendary documentary Paris Is Burning, is a celebration of queerness, resilience, and creative expression. Audiences will be transported into a world of joy, struggle, and style as the company reimagines the ballroom as a space for healing and liberation.

Commissioned by Works & Process and developed through residencies at Kaatsbaan, Catskill Mountain Foundation , and The Church Sag Harbor, it premiered at the Guggenheim Museum in 2022 and was named a finalist for NEFA’s National Dance Project. Commissioned by Works & Process and developed through residencies at Kaatsbaan, Catskill Mountain Foundation , and The Church Sag Harbor, it premiered at the Guggenheim Museum in 2022 and was named a finalist for NEFA’s National Dance Project. Catch the performance on September 6 at Torn Space.

Omari Wiles is a force in contemporary dance. Born in Senegal and raised in the Bronx, he is the founder of the House of Oricci and creator of the signature “AfrikFusion” style. He has been named one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch,” featured in Vogue and The New York Times, and worked with global icons including Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, and Madonna. His choreographic work has appeared at Lincoln Center, The Joyce Theater, and the Guggenheim, and he recently received widespread acclaim for his role as co-choreographer of the ballroom-inspired Cats: The Jellicle Ball Off-Broadway.

This performance is made possible with support from NYS DanceForce and co-producers Sukanya Burman Dance/The Jamestown Dance Festival.