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Deep Dive: Stepping (1998)

Film Lens

Stepping
Stepping is a documentary that focuses on the dance form known as stepping, prevalent at colleges with significant African American populations. The film presents both informal performances at parties and formal step shows, illustrating how students express various identities through this dance. It provides insights into African American identity, fraternity or sorority identity, gendered identity, and personal identity. The film features the Alpha Phi Alphas as they prepare for a step show just hours away. It includes interviews with current and past steppers, alongside footage from previous shows, creating a comprehensive view of the dynamic nature of stepping and its cultural significance.

Why Watch

  • •Meet the Alpha Phi Alphas preparing for a step show.
  • •See how stepping shapes African American identity.
  • •Find out about stepping's historical roots and styles.

Did You Know

•Stepping is performed at virtually every college with substantial African American enrollment.
•The film has a duration of 16 minutes.
•The documentary was directed by Brooke Barnett in 1998.

Perfect For

Dance enthusiastsAfrican American cultureCollege traditions