Arts

Ottawa Black Creatives Hub. Image: Algonquin Students Association.
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“I know there’s for sure some people here who are going to be going to the Oscars in some way, shape or form.”

In academia, we often make the mistake of studying history as static events in the past. But history is ever-evolving and dynamic. Black History Month asks every person to connect present events with the past and present history and achievements of Black people worldwide. Black history is happening now in Ottawa.

Students can celebrate Black History Month with Hors Pair Social on Feb. 20 by attending the Ottawa Black Creatives Hub’s Performing Arts Showcase. The showcase will be an art display featuring some of Ottawa’s top talent including musicians, dancers, poets, and more.

Staged at the Algonquin Commons Theatre, the showcase will feature artists such as Grey Bisson, N’nerjie, Sommer Knight, Malaika Urbani, Chloe Bonnet, Miss Mcleod, Christjay, KingH509, Noni, Mxzy, Olivia Onuk, Carleton Afro Dance Crew, Jacqui Du Toit, and Fitch JeanKiera Meeks.

These artists will bring an exciting mix of dance, poetry, music and more.

Noni (Nonso Morah) spoke to the Fulcrum regarding the showcase and her performance. “What is unique about it is simply the fact that it’s a creative hub that’s created by the creative community that it’s trying to serve.”

While Ottawa is not known as a creative hub, this showcase allows everyone to exhibit and witness the talent of the city.

When asked what she is most excited to see Morah replied, “I think there are going to be screenings. I’m excited to see a friend of mine, John. He’s an amazing director, screenwriter and he’s going to be sharing one of his, I think, masterpieces, in my head.”

In terms of her own poetry performance, Morah left us wanting more.  “I will be experimenting a bit more in terms of bridging my background in poetry and writing and music with where I am now.”

Overall, students can look forward to the showcase since it provides an opportunity to break into the creative community in Ottawa.

“I think this is a really great space to connect with people. And network with people who may just be the key to helping you,” Morah said.

Students can buy tickets at the doors of the Algonquin Commons Theatre on Feb. 20 at 5 p.m. or online.

The showcase starts at 7 p.m., see you then!

Author

  • Sydney Grenier is a third-year student completing a degree Conflict Studies and Human Rights at the University of Ottawa. She has been contributing to the Fulcrum since her second year. She is excited take on the role editor of her favourite section, Arts & Culture! When Sydney is not dreaming up new stories and solutions you can catch her going on caffeine fueled adventures such as hiking or searching for new music to add to her ever-growing archive.