Tony Howell, the heart behind the movement

My journey into African Diaspora dance was ignited by an unyielding love for its profound culture. It's more than just movement; it's a living, breathing art form that connects us to rich histories and powerful expressions. This deep-seated passion is the very foundation of tonyhowelldance, driving me to share its magic with you.

Anthony “Tony” Howell (Artistic Director and Producer) of the Black History Month Celebration: African Americans and the Arts is inspired to continue sharing his talent and love for Dunham Technique, Afro-Caribbean and African Dance having had an auspicious start as an adolescent touring the Caribbean (1974), Ghana (1975) and Italy (1979) with Marie Brooks Children’s Dance Group.

 

Having studied classical ballet at the Joffrey Ballet; various styles at the Clark Center; Dunham Technique with Larl Becham, Lavinia Williams, Philip Stamps and Joan Peters, Mr. Howell was passed on a wealth of knowledge and experience in the world of concert dance.

 

His performance experience includes: Chuck Davis’ African American Dance Ensemble (Durham, N.C.), Kenel Archer Haitian Folkloric Dance Company (NYC, NY), and Eugene James Dance Company (NYC, NY). He choreographed Yellow Bird (2011) for P.A.K.A. (Passing Ancestral Knowledge Along) at Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), under the auspices of Danna Manno and Pat Dye; For Colored Girls (2002) at State Street Productions; Albany, NY, and Natural Man (1985) at Shaw Players, Shaw University, Raleigh, N.C.

 

He has taught at various institutions including Museum for African Art; JCC/Upper West Side; Middle Collegiate Church; Charles Moore Dance Theater; Talk With Wolves and Uptown Dance Academy. Currently, Mr. Howell teaches dance classes and workshops at DVP/Dances of a Variable Population as Guest Artist; SAGE Bronx Center and Manhattan Ballet and Movement Center. In 2024, Mr. Howell conducted Dances of the African Diaspora workshops at the Centro Coreografico in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (2024, 2025) and at the Yolena Alonso Dance Company in Havana, Cuba (2024).  He is invited to conduct workshops at Bale Renconcavo co-directed by Elisio Pitta and Clyde Morgan in Cachoeiras, Bahia, Brazil and FUNCEB in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil (2026).

 

Mr., Howell earned his B.A. at SUNY/Albany in African Studies and French (2002) and MSW at the Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University (2018). He is the author of “Ice does Melt” prose and essay by Anthony Tony Howell (Blurb.com –2013), and “The African Diaspora in Arts and Culture from A to Z” (Amazacon.com).

 

He extends gratitude to the cast of the Black History Month Celebration: African Americans and the Arts at SAGE Center (2025).

Be exhilarated in the spirit of dance

When you attend a tonyhowelldance workshop, my goal is simple: I want you to leave feeling exhilarated in the spirit of dance. More than just learning steps, I hope you take away a profound sense of joy, connection, and empowerment. It's an experience designed to uplift and inspire, making you part of a vibrant community.

Wisdom passed down from the ancestors

What sets my teaching style apart at tonyhowelldance? It's the profound connection to ancestral wisdom. My approach is deeply rooted in the authentic traditions of African Diaspora dance, ensuring that every class is not just a lesson, but a journey through history, guided by the spirit of those who danced before us. It’s a unique and special way to connect.

"Tony's workshops are truly transformative! I left feeling incredibly energized and deeply connected to the dance. His passion is infectious."

A happy dancer from New York, NY