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Beyond the Beat: Jason Johnson and the Urgent Rhythm of ZAZ: The Big Easy
(image: The Oviatt, courtesy Johnson. - Include this image prominently at the top of the article)
For Jason Johnson, percussive dance isn’t merely a performance art; it’s a vital form of storytelling, a powerful conduit for black experiences, and a catalyst for community building. A celebrated choreographer, dancer, and educator, Johnson has dedicated his career to elevating percussive dance – encompassing tap, body percussion, and beyond – and using it to address critical social and environmental issues. His latest work, ZAZ: The Big Easy, is a testament to this commitment, a deeply moving and immersive exploration of Hurricane Katrina‘s impact on New Orleans and a poignant reflection on the ongoing challenges of climate change, systemic racism, and cultural preservation.
A Lifelong Dedication to Percussive Voice
Johnson’s journey began in Baltimore, Maryland, where he discovered the expressive power of dance as a young person. He quickly recognized its ability to articulate emotions and experiences that words often failed to capture. This early passion led him to hone his skills on prominent stages, including a dynamic stint with the internationally acclaimed STOMP, the breathtaking spectacle of Cirque du Soleil, and the culturally significant Step Afrika!, a company dedicated to the tradition of stepping. These experiences weren’t just about mastering technique; they were about understanding the past and cultural weight of percussive forms,especially within the Black community.
“From the beginning,I was fascinated by how rhythm could be used to communicate,to connect,and to challenge,” Johnson explains. “But I also became acutely aware of the responsibility that comes with wielding this power. How do we ensure these traditions are not only preserved but also evolve? How do we use these art forms to spark meaningful dialog about the issues that matter most?”
This questioning spirit has consistently driven Johnson’s artistic vision. He’s long been interested in the intersection of percussive dance and technology, exploring how these tools can amplify voices and raise awareness about pressing global concerns. “It’s not enough to simply create gorgeous art,” he asserts.”We have a responsibility to use our platforms to address issues like global warming,social injustice,and the preservation of cultural heritage.”
Katrina: A Turning Point and a Call to Action
The devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina in August 2005 served as a pivotal moment, not only for the city of New Orleans but also for countless artists, particularly those within the Black community. The disaster exposed deep-seated vulnerabilities – environmental, economic, and social - that disproportionately affected Black communities and rendered their cultural expressions largely invisible in the national narrative. For Johnson, Katrina became a symbol of systemic racism and a catalyst for a decade-long journey of listening, learning, and creating.
ZAZ: The Big Easy is the culmination of this journey. The show isn’t a retelling of the storm itself, but rather a deeply human exploration of its aftermath, told through the voices of those who lived it. Johnson spent ten years collecting oral histories from New Orleans residents, particularly within the dance community, meticulously documenting their experiences, their resilience, and their hopes for the future.
“I started this project as I felt a profound need to preserve these stories,” Johnson shares. “These are the voices that often get lost in the larger narrative. I wanted to create a space where their experiences could be honored, acknowledged, and amplified.”
An Immersive Sensory Experience
ZAZ: The Big easy is far from a customary theatrical performance. It’s an immersive sensory experience that seamlessly blends speaking,body percussion,tap dance,sand dance,an original sound score composed by Tamar Greene and Henley Connor III,and evocative video projections. The choreography,a collaborative effort between Johnson and a team of talented artists – including Ayodele Casel,Michelle gibson,Quynn Johnson,Jodeci
