On Friday, November 7th, 2014 the Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) in association with the Berry Gordy Family Foundation, presented a spectacular evening of dance, in which some of the genre’s brightest stars will perform in tribute to one of the greatest visionaries and philanthropists of our time; Wallis Annenberg, Misty Copeland, prima ballerina for the American Ballet Theatre; Desmond Richardson, soloist with the Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre, principle dancer with the American Ballet Theatre and now founder of his own company, Complexions; Jason Samuel Smith, Emmy-Award winning choreographer and director of The Los Angeles Tap Festival; Broadway star Vixen Nixon (Memphis and Maurice Hines’ Hot Feet); and in a rare treat, dance legend Carmen De Lavallade, took to the stage for the Performing Arts, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills. CA 90210 for a once in a lifetime convert that is not to be missed. This year’s star-studded gala Impressions: A Magical Night Of Dance featured performances by the DADA Ensemble, the Academy’s most advanced students and the Redbirds, the Academy’s troupe of gifted, younger performers. The gala while leaving a major footprint int he concert world, raised funds to continue the mission of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy,which expands its reach to youth in communities where arts education is limited or non-existent. Our girl Anne Mcdaniels got to talk to a couple of the Antendees and we’ve got the info right here: 
A word with Berry Gordy
Karla Gordy Bristelle (Berry Gordy’s Neice) – on her work & her fashion
Raven Symone- on dancing, her hair, dancing, working out, and being a leader! [ I also personally snagged a photo with Raven ] 
Rosalina Sanchez-[questions don’t start until 2:01] on dancing, ballet, her hometown, and contributing to the cause
Vivian Allen (Debbie’s daughter)- on being Debbie’s muse, School Programs, and her fashion.
Misty Copeland (performing that night)- on her NY Times BestSeller, Her influence on young girls, her number that night, and web links
Freda And Scherrie Payne- on their work, their fashion, and dancing, music, touring, and more
Debbie Allen herself- on presenting the dancers of our time, Debbie Allen Dance Academy, dance programs not being in schools, web links & more
Ashira Morris Singer/Actress/Model/Writer 561.929.0095 Website: facebook.com/pages/Ashira/319707731511803 Email: ashiraxm@gmail.com
