“An award-winning, evolving choreographer from Harlem, New York, Ja’ Malik is known for infusing ballet with modern, real-life experiences. He has created works for Boston Ballet School, University of North Carolina School of Arts, Festival Ballet Providence and American Repertory Ballet, among others.
In “gypsy moths,” his upcoming ballet for “Innovative 1970,” Ja’ Malik draws inspiration from the 1970s Black female group, Labelle.
“These women — Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah Dash — are the blueprint and founders of many of today’s leading female pop and rock groups,” he said.
He said it was important to re-introduce himself to Charlotte Ballet audiences by way of the music he grew up hearing.”
