Ajayi Dance: Half the Sky

Ajayi Dance: Half the Sky is an inspiring evening of contemporary dance presented by the Cleveland-based dance company founded in 2021 by Melissa Ajayi. The company aims to foster connections among individuals, communities, and the world, having showcased over a dozen original works at prominent Cleveland venues and festivals such as the Cleveland Public Theatre and Cleveland Dance Festival. This program features a diverse cast of 18 local dancers and explores themes of individual and collective identity and responsibility. It includes new pieces by Melissa Ajayi, such as AGAIN and AGAIN, along with excerpts from the in-progress work Gentle Men Let Us Rest. Additionally, guest artist Annika Sheaff will present her piece Time is a Mountain (2025) and perform Wish you were here (2021) by Monica Bill Barnes. The event promises an enriching experience at the historic Playhouse Square.