In the first episode of Kiss My Black Side, Brenda Emmanus OBE chats with a trio of Black dance talent who share their stories of reaching success in the dance world – from acknowledging their passion for the art form, to dealing with changing perceptions and promoting more diversity in dance.

They explore their unique views on whether Black dance can be defined. What is Black dance? Does a dancer of colour in any genre of dance make it so? Is such a definition limiting?

Throughout the conversation it becomes clear that dance has not only provided these Black practitioners with a form of expression, but a platform to inspire others to create positive change.

Host: Brenda Emmanus OBE:

Brenda Emmanus OBE is a television presenter and journalist working across print, radio and television. She has established her career across a range of genres - news and current affairs, popular factual, travel, fashion and the arts. Brenda has presented features and documentaries on a broad range of subjects from Princess Diana to African Fashion. She has interviewed some of the biggest names in arts and entertainment - from Oprah Winfrey and Maya Angelou, to Sir Elton John and Tom Cruise. Brenda was awarded an OBE in 2019 for services to Broadcasting and Diversity.

Guests:

Jonzi D – MC, Dancer, Spoken Word Artist and Director

Hailed as the foremost advocate for hip hop, Jonzi D has changed the profile and influenced the development of the UK British hip hop dance and theatre scene over two decades. Jonzi is the Artistic Director of Breakin’ Convention and an associate artist of Sadler's Wells. He has successfully supported hundreds of dance and rap/poetry artists on their journey to creating theatre.

Precious Adams - Ballet Dancer

Precious joined English National Ballet in 2014 and was promoted to First Artist in 2017. In January 2018 she won the Emerging Dancer Competition. Precious was named as one of BBC's 100 Women - a list of inspiring and influential women from around the world in 2019.

Sharon Watson MBE - Principal, Northern School of Contemporary Dance

Principal of Northern School Contemporary Dance, Sharon was previously the longest standing Artistic Director of the award-winning Pheonix Dance Theatre. She was the first female to be invited to join the then all-male company and has created numerous works, including the much-celebrated Windrush: Movement of the People and Black Waters.

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