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Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Unveils Legacy: Sweet In The Morning with Lil Buck's World Premiere

A fusion of Jookin and ballet takes center stage in Denver. This year's legacy concert redefines movement, tradition, and innovation under one roof.

The image shows a painting of a group of people in white dresses and hats dancing on a stage, with...
The image shows a painting of a group of people in white dresses and hats dancing on a stage, with one person sitting on the floor in the foreground. The painting is titled "Dance at the Moulin Rouge" by Edgar Degas. The people in the painting are dressed in a variety of colorful costumes, with some wearing hats and others wearing masks. The background is a vibrant blue, and the stage is illuminated by a warm yellow light. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with the dancers gracefully moving to the beat of the music.

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Unveils Legacy: Sweet In The Morning with Lil Buck's World Premiere

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD) will present its annual spring legacy concert from May 8 to May 10, 2026. Titled Legacy: Sweet In The Morning, the event features seven works, including a world premiere by Lil Buck. The performances will take place at the newly opened Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Center for the Healing Arts Theater. The concert draws its name from a piece by Leni Wylliams, Sweet In The Morning, performed by three male soloists using a bench. Alongside this, audiences will see works by CPRD founder Cleo Parker Robinson, as well as choreographers Donald McKayle and Winifred Harris.

Lil Buck’s new piece, *The Open Door*, blends Jookin—a street dance style from Memphis—with classical ballet. The founder, Cleo Parker Robinson, has encouraged attendees to engage deeply with the performances, seeing them as a chance to celebrate and connect through movement. This year’s event marks another milestone for the company, showcasing both established and fresh choreography in their state-of-the-art theatre.

The three-day run offers seven distinct performances, mixing tradition with innovation. The concert highlights CPRD’s commitment to diverse dance forms while honouring its legacy. Tickets are available for the shows at their new dedicated venue.

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