Stepping brings long history to Albany’s Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre just wrapped up their yearly Black History Month Step Show on February 19. Thousands of people attended, making it one of the largest community events in Albany.

Stepping is a unique combination of stomping and clapping. It was popularized here in the U.S. by historically Black fraternities and sororities, but its origins go back to Africa, where miners used the stomps of their feet to communicate with each other because they weren’t allowed to talk.

The Palace Theatre has been home to the step shows for nearly 20 years.

This year’s performers included step teams from Brooklyn, Greek organizations from local colleges, and youth dance teams.

See what it all looks like by watching the video of Taniqua Pennix’s story.