Taking the Stage: African American Music and Stories That Changed America

Taking the Stage: African American Music and Stories That Changed America is an extraordinary showcase of the African American experience, presented by ABC in 2017. More than just a television event, this two-hour special is a celebration of the profound cultural contributions of the African American community. It explores the influential narrative of Black Americans through the lens of music, dance, theater and spoken word.

Taking the Stage draws its inspiration from the opening of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, an institution committed to preserving the richly woven fabric of African American history, arts, and culture. The show translates this ambition into a dynamic and engrossing visual spectacle, designed to both entertain and educate viewers on the depth and diversity of the African American experience.

The production transcends the conventional boundaries of television formats. It is a serene blend of documentary, concert, and narrative storytelling. It goes beyond simply recounting historical events, taking care to present the emotion, struggle, triumph, and identity woven into African American history. The storytelling is evocative and heartfelt, often leaving audiences with a deeper understanding of the African American journey.

Hosted by actors Tom Hanks and Angela Bassett, the show guides audiences through a lively catalog of music, dance, and oral tradition. Esteemed actors like Samuel L. Jackson and Don Cheadle dramatize storied moments and figures from African American history. Complementing the narratives are mesmerizing performances from a top-notch ensemble of musicians and dancers. The performance roster is an all-star cast boasting names like Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, and Dave Grohl, among others.

Taking the Stage delves into various genres, from spirituals to jazz, from R&B to hip-hop. Each genre explored is performed by celebrated artists, thus encapsulating the African American influence on global music. Alongside these performances are personalized narrations and dramatic interventions touching on key historical moments such as the Civil Rights Movement, Harlem Renaissance, and the inauguration of Barack Obama.

A critical element of Taking the Stage is its spotlight on dance. The show highlights the African American influence on various American dance forms through impeccable dance sequences. It particularly underscores the interpretative power of dance as a communication tool, evident in the performances by renowned dance artists like Alvin Ailey's dancers and Savion Glover.

Another standout feature of the event is the spoken word. Celebrated artists like Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith recite powerful narratives and poetry reflecting the journey and achievements of African Americans. These eloquent specks of poetry and storytelling further infuse depth into the show, connecting real people and their experiences with history.

Visual aesthetics play a crucial role in encapsulating the vibrant, multifaceted nature of the African American experience. The show has a grandeur to it which is balanced by subtlety. From careful set designs that reflect various historical periods to meticulous costumes, from evocative lighting to impressive cinematography, every visual element combines to create a visually and emotionally compelling experience.

In addition to its profound cultural exposition, Taking the Stage is also noteworthy for its unifying tone. The show underscores the interconnected nature of American society, emphasizing the pivotal role that the African American community has played in shaping the country’s cultural, political, and social landscape. The human stories within the larger narrative remind viewers of the shared struggles, dreams, and triumphs that define the American experience.

Taking the Stage: African American Music and Stories That Changed America defies standard pigeonholes. It's not a regular concert or a history show, nor merely a detailed documentary or a patriotic tribute. Rather, it's a unique medley that combines these elements to produce a telegenic spectacle. Its accomplishment lies in its transformative potential, to engage fans across different genres: music lovers, history buffs, dance enthusiasts, and everyone in between, inviting viewers on a profound journey through the rich tapestry of African American heritage and its impact on America.

Overall, this show is a remarkable tribute to the influence, resilience, and spirit of the African American community. It portrays a passionate exploration of how the community’s stories, whether enacted through song, dance, or spoken word, have decisively shaped and continue to enrich America's cultural lifeblood.