Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos, pulsed with energy as the New York-based dance theatre group, Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet (JGCO), performed in Nigeria as part of its two-city tour celebrating 30 years of storytelling through dance, music, and culture.

Founded in Brooklyn in 1994, JGCO is renowned for using the arts to empower, inspire, and educate. Their Nigerian visit was not just a stage performance but an effort to connect with communities and immerse in local culture.

The highlight of the evening was a dance piece titled “Homage”, choreographed by founder Jamel Gaines. The piece honoured elders and ancestors, emphasising respect and intergenerational wisdom. Dancers from the U.S., France, and Italy performed together, including renowned artists Shirley Black Brown Coward, Theara Ward, Rose Barbantan, Amina Konate, Ines Manbou-Missoumani, Wayne Moses, Ryan Rankin, and Rayan Lecurieux-Durival.

Despite arriving in Nigeria only a day earlier, the dancers gave an energetic open rehearsal and performance that deeply moved the audience.

Speaking during the event, Gaines described dance as “healing and medicine”, calling it his way of giving back to his ancestors, community, and future generations.

Also featured was a stage performance by the Crown Troupe of Africa titled “The Divorce of Lawino and Ochol”, based on Ugandan poet Okot p’Bitek’s iconic work. The play explored the conflict between African traditions and Western influences, underscoring how culture risks erosion when roots are forgotten.

In an interactive session, JGCO members emphasised the importance of cultural exchange, artistic preservation, and mentorship. Choreographer and educator Theara Ward said,

“It is our responsibility to document our voices—through oral history, through our art. Teach one, teach all.”

Veteran artist Shirley Black Brown Coward added, “This international connection must happen. There are stories we need to share and stories we need to learn, especially as efforts are made to erase our histories.”

When asked about the connection between JGCO’s style and Nigerian dance, Gaines noted strong similarities, adding that his goal is to fuse genres—ballet, modern, and African dance—to reflect the unity of the human experience.

“Being here in the motherland is more than a performance,” he said. “It’s life-changing. We look forward to building a lasting relationship with Nigeria.”

Notable guests at the event included former Miss Nigeria Ezinne Akudo Anyaoha (MC); veteran actress Joke Silva, who is also the the manager of Glover Memorial Hall; Segun Adefila of Crown Troupe of Africa; Njideka Agbo, founder of GLANN Media; and Eki Faith Eboigbe, founder of Entertainment Bus-Stop Ltd.