Stony Brook University professor April Masten, author of the new Diamond and Juba: The Raucous World of 19th-Century Challenge Dancing, and other experts will discuss the lives of two antebellum dancers and perform works related to their careers: Irish American John Diamond (ca. 1823-1857), and African American William Henry Lane (1825-ca. 1852), known as Juba. Diamond and Juba became internationally famous as competitors in the art and sport of challenge dancing, which was born from Black-Irish social interaction in antebellum New York’s dockside markets, taverns, and theaters. Masten’s study of Diamond and Juba’s rivalry and parallel careers offers a rare glimpse into Black and immigrant strivings in an expanding nation keen for talent yet divided by prejudice.
The evening’s scholars and performers, in addition to April Masten, will include cultural historian John Reddick; dancer, actor and scholar DeWitt Fleming Jr. performing Black-Irish tap dance; instrumentalist and singer Hubby Jenkins playing old-time banjo; and vocalist, musician and writer Christina Britton Conroy.
Masten’s book will be available for sale and signing at the event, which will be followed by a reception with refreshments.
