Black Choreographer/ Founder of Leading Dance Company in New York Launches Annual Fundraiser

New York, NY — Artistic Director Ronald K. Brown and EVIDENCE, A Dance Company continue pursuing their decades-long exploration and understanding of the human experience in the African diaspora this summer with the company’s largest annual fundraiser, On Our Toes in the Hamptons. Returning to the grounds of The Hayground School (151 Mitchell Lane, Bridgehampton, NY), an afternoon of specialty wines and hors d’oeuvres dancing, and special performances will be held on Sunday, August 27 from 1-5pm. Tickets, priced at $500 for general admission and $750 for VIP seating (with a complimentary gift bag), can be purchased online. Round-trip transportation is available on a private Hampton Jitney from a convenient midtown pick-up location. Fare is $100 per person round trip and space is limited. Corporate sponsorship packages, starting at $5,000, are also available by contacting events@evidencedance.com.

Business leaders, philanthropists, and artists alike will travel to New York’s favorite summer destination in support of Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE, as the company’s annual benefit, On Our Toes in the Hamptons, returns. Hosted by celebrity chef and television host Carla Hall (“Top Chef,” “The Chew”), the afternoon is anchored by a special performance of Grace by company members of EVIDENCE, a highlight of nearly four decades of repertory works that drives the cultural conversation about humanity through a unique blend of African dance, contemporary choreography, and spoken word. A selection of specialty wines and hors d’oeuvres are on the menu throughout the event, leading up to a grand live auction followed by music and dancing spearheaded by DJ Jon Quick. Guests are encouraged to turn out their chicest summer wardrobe looks for the afternoon of festivities.

Artistic Director Ronald K. Brown and On Our Toes in the Hamptons Honorary Co-chairs Leslie Odom, Jr. (Tony Award winner Hamilton, Purlie Victorious), Dionne Warwick (2023 Kennedy Center Honoree), and the benefit committee dedicate this year’s gala event to the memory of Joyce Mullins-Jackson. A longtime supporter of EVIDENCE, Ms. Jackson was well-known throughout the Hamptons as not only a phenomenal real estate agent but more importantly a beautiful and generous spirit.

Proceeds from On Our Toes in the Hamptons support the far-reaching operations and programs of Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE. Not only will funds raised support company dancers, staff, and guest artists through salaries and commissioning of groundbreaking new works but will also provide the finances necessary to continue taking beloved performances across the country and around the world. The company also uses money raised to continue their ever-popular dance education, through in-person and virtual community classes, as well as an annual summer dance intensive and workshop series.

To learn more about EVIDENCE, visit EvidenceDance.com

About
Founded by Ronald K. Brown in 1985 and based in Brooklyn, New York, EVIDENCE focuses on the seamless integration of traditional African dance with contemporary choreography and spoken word. The choreography provides a unique view of human struggles, tragedies, and triumphs. Brown uses movement as a way to reinforce the importance of community in African American culture and to acquaint audiences with the beauty of traditional African forms and rhythms. He is an advocate for the growth of the African American dance community and is instrumental in encouraging young dancers to choreograph and develop careers in dance.

Brown’s choreography is in high demand. He has set works on Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ailey II, Cleo Parker Robinson Ensemble, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Jennifer Muller/The Works, Jeune Ballet d’Afrique Noire, Ko-Thi Dance Company, PHILADANCO!, and others. He choreographed Regina Taylor’s award-winning play, Crowns, and won an AUDELCO Award for his work on that production.

Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE now tours to over 25 communities in the United States and abroad. The company has traveled to Cuba, Brazil, England, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Mexico, Senegal, Nigeria, South Africa, and Canada to perform, teach master classes, and conduct lecture/demonstrations for individuals of all ages. Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE brings arts education and cultural connections to local communities that have historically lacked these experiences. Annually, the company reaches an audience of more than 25,000. The Joyce Theater Foundation and Restoration Arts/Billie Holiday Theater are EVIDENCE’s organizational partners.

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