Kujichagulia to the Max

Abstract This chapter examines the author’s legacy and experience making solo dance through the specifics of one choreographic work, Kujichagulia to the Max (To The Max). The title of the choreography pays tribute to Max Roach and recalls the African American holiday Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa centralizes the nguzo saba or seven principles of good character and cultural values; Kujichagulia, the second principle, reflects self-determination. The author situates her choreographic influences within the framework of modern dance and Africanist aesthetics. Rather than a codified technique, she choreographs with signature movements. Rooting herself with movement familiar to her body and an intentional sense of Black soulfulness and womanhood affirms and embodies an aesthetic Black empowerment as it looks and feels in motion. The chapter then considers the response of Black audiences for To The Max.