Uprooted: the Journey of Jazz Dance

Uprooted: The Journey of Jazz Dance is a documentary film that traces the rich history and evolution of jazz dance from its African roots through the present day. The film celebrates the art form's lineage and its many contemporary reinterpretations, examining how jazz dance emerged from the experiences of enslaved peoples and evolved into a powerful form of artistic expression and resistance. Through interviews with renowned practitioners, choreographers, and dancers—including Debbie Allen, Chita Rivera, Camille A. Brown, and others—the documentary explores jazz dance across multiple continents, from New York and Los Angeles to Paris, London, and Canada. The film addresses the complex themes of marginalization, segregation, cultural appropriation, and triumph over adversity, while celebrating the human spirit's need for rhythm and movement. By documenting the voices and experiences of those who have shaped and continue to shape this vital art form, the film aims to educate audiences about jazz dance's profound cultural significance and inspire future generations of dancers to preserve and honor this legacy.