Nov. 11, 2024

Step Afrika! 101 performance at Ferris State preserves tradition of ‘Divine Nine’ fraternities, sororities

Ferris State to host Step Afrika! 101 — Step Afrika! 101 will be offered in a free performance in Ferris State University’s Williams Auditorium Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m., through the resources of the Arts and Lectures Committee.

BIG RAPIDS, Mich. —

A performance of Step Afrika! 101 will integrate songs, storytelling, humor, and audience participation in a performance build on traditions from historically African American fraternities and sororities.

The event is planned for Wednesday, Nov. 13, when a 7 p.m. at Ferris State University’s Williams Auditorium, 630 S. Michigan Ave. The program is free and open to the public.

“Step Afrika! 101 advances and preserves a tradition that was created by the ‘Divine Nine’ fraternities and sororities,” said Glen Okonoski, director of Ferris State’s School of Digital Media and chairman of the Arts and Lectures Committee. “We are excited to bring the show to campus, and we expect there will be interactive components for the audience.”

Arts and Lectures Committee is sponsoring the event, which includes steps and strolls that are traced back to historically African American fraternities and sororities, offered with AfroBeats and popular music.

The Divine Nine are nine historically African American fraternities and sororities that are part of the National Pan-Hellanic Council. The organizations are known for their academic excellence, community engagement, and involvement in civil and political movements.

Anyone requiring accommodation to attend this event is invited to contact Williams Auditorium staff by email or calling (231) 591-5600 at least 72 hours before the performance.