Charles Weidman’s Lynchtown (1936) and Martha Graham’s Chronicle (1936) depicted social injustices that reflected the time period in which these dances were created. What political statement do you think Childish Gambino was trying to make with his video This is America (2018)?

Journal #4

Videos:

Steps in the Street from Chronicle – Martha Graham

“‘Chronicle’ does not attempt to show the actualities of war; rather does it, by evoking war’s images, set forth the fateful prelude to war, portray the devastation of spirit which it leaves in its wake, and suggest an answer.” – Original program note

Lynchtown – Charles Weidman

“Lynchtown was filled with accusatory gestures, grotesque hoppings and stampings and fierce pursuits.The twisted minds of bigots were symbolized by twisted bodies. Dancers doubled up with rage and when the lynch mob finally dragged in its victim, they gathered about his body as if they were vultures.” – New York Times

This is America – Childish Gambino

“INSERT YOUR DESCRIPTION HERE”

Journal Assignment:

1. Charles Weidman’s Lynchtown (1936) and Martha Graham’s Chronicle (1936) depicted social injustices that reflected the time period in which these dances were created. What political statement do you think Childish Gambino was trying to make with his video This is America (2018)? Why do you think that? Use examples to support your ideas.

2. In 1-2 sentences quote your description of Gambino’s This is America.

Journal #5

Watch Video: Katherine Dunham

Journal Assignment:

Type ONE word you would use to describe Katherine Dunham.

What were Katherine Dunham’s contributions to modern dance and to her community? How did she achieve this? What would you say was her motivation/driving force behind her work?

Requirements: as needed