Scope and arrangement
The Dancing in the Streets records trace the history of this idiosyncratic community-based performance group, highlighting the work of the dancers, choreographers, and community members who have participated in its perforances and programs. The records are separated into the following sections: articles and clippings; board of directors; marketing; performance production; photographs; programming; and audio and video recordings. Files are arranged chronologically within each section.
The photograph files comprise the largest portion of the records. The majority of photographs document site specific public performance events, while many others show Dancing in the Streets programming activities, document site surveys, or are publicity portraits of performers. Most of the photographs are black and white prints and contact sheets. Corresponding negatives for some of these can be found in box 15. Some color slides and prints are also included.
Performance production files occupy a significant portion of the records. They are labeled with titles of performance pieces and typically include project summaries; meeting notes; reference materials relating to venues and themes; park permits; contracts; event programs; sponsorship and advertising; and general correspondence related to planning and executing public dance performances.
Programming files also represent a substantial share of the records. These files hold material on several community-based, ongoing educational programs administered through Dancing in the Streets that frequently incorporate movement, dance, or performance, but rather than culminating in a single public performance, recur over many months or a number of years. Programs include Arts in Education, which worked with elementary school children; Dancing in City Parks; Dancing on the Plaza; and Picture Red Hook.
Articles and clippings files hold published newspaper and magazine reviews of Dancing in the Streets performances and other articles about the organization. The majority of this material is photocopied.
The board of directors files hold agendas and meeting minutes of Dancing in the Streets board of directors dating from 1990 and 1991; and from 2006 to 2014.
Marketing files hold promotional material for specific performances, including press releases, newsletters, invitations, fliers, and promotional posters.
The collection includes 4 audio and 139 video recordings of interviews, performances, and programming activity, which are unavailable pending digitization.