Future Research

It’s About Time is organized in part with the intention to spark future research. It is not, nor does it intend to be, comprehensive. The sections of the archive, “Representation and Reception,” “Legislation,” “Film and Television,” “Dance in Communities” and “Performing Artists” are possible areas of research and important areas of consideration for context and critical analysis of history and the present moment. The books displayed here are a selection of works not focused on dance but that can be used to support dance research. General history, oral histories, legacy projects, legal history, self-published family histories and performance programs are examples of where people might find references to dance or information that will help to contextualize dance before 1970 in and by the Black population. In order for research into Blackness and dancing in Canada to expand, students and educators must be provided with ways to engage with an underdeveloped historical narrative that cannot rely on readily available and focused resources or methodologies.

Featured
Mr Leonard’s Troupe

Mr. Leonard’s Troupe. Reproduction of a detail from the catalogue for “Syncopated: Black Stories –A photo exhibit" by Archie Alleyne and the Archie Alleyne Scholarship Fund.

The catalogue states: “The revue consisted of young entertainers selected from organizations throughout Toronto, including the UNIA [Universal Negro Improvement Association] Hall, St. Christopher Settlement House, Home Service Assoc-iation and Club Savoy. The 13 entertainers performed for military person-nel stationed on armed forces bases throughout Ontario in the final years of World War II.”

This image is an example of an excellent source for future research. What questions arise when you look at this photo? What dance forms, cultural practices and trends, performance styles or hierarchal structures are visible here?