The Cathrell Collection presents not only a diverse picture of the jazz scene of the 1930s and 1940s, but also shines a spotlight on the careers of chorines whose high-energy performances have been overlooked. Through the journeys of three chorines represented in this collection, Laurie Cathrell (1914–1999), Birdie Warfield (ca. 1916–unknown), and Chickie Collins (ca. 1915–1942), one can see that chorines were not merely ornamentation for big bands, but talented, ambitious performers in their own rights.

From the leather and feather of early MCs, to the classic New York City streetwear of 90s, to the revival of Afrocentric garb, to the big brand clothing line of moguls, fashion has been central to hip-hop identity.

Whether it’s the synthesizer sounds of the 80s, cross-genre MP3 mashups of the 90s, or the popularization of autotune in the 2000s, technology has always been a driving force behind hip-hop music.

Through their achievements in the dramatic arts, African American women have broken barriers, enriched American culture, and inspired audiences around the world.

In celebration of our “Making African America: Immigration and the Changing Dynamics of Blackness” symposium, we have highlighted five works of art from our collection. These items, and the stories behind them, help reveal the demographic changes that have transformed the social, cultural, and political significance of blackness in the United States.

By weaving African American themes into his dances, Alvin Ailey ushered in a new era of concert dance. Ailey made an immeasurable impact around the world of dance.

Broadway history was made 40 years ago when the cast and crew of The Wiz: The Supersoul Musical ‘Wizard of Oz’received eight Tony Award nominations and seven wins.

One of the most esteemed entertainers of the 20th century, Harry Belafonte leveraged his decades-long career in music, movies, and theater to challenge racial barriers. Whether performing on the Ed Sullivan Show or marching alongside Martin Luther King Jr., Belafonte turned any stage he was given into a platform to advance civil rights for people of color.

Jazz evolved from ragtime, an American style of syncopated instrumental music. Jazz first materialized in New Orleans, and is often distinguished by African American musical innovation. Multiple styles of the genre exist today from the dance-oriented music of the 1920s big band era to the experimental flair of modern avant-garde jazz.

In the 1940s, Baldwin demonstrated skill and insight at writing reviews for leading publications, which helped to launch his literary career.