A new exhibition at the Harvey Gantt Center for African Arts & Culture in Charlotte celebrates an iconic dance company who defied prejudice and gravity.

Held Jan. 22 through June 26, “Dance Theatre of Harlem: 40 years of Firsts” showcases dazzling costumes and set pieces and runs video excerpts in honor of the theater and its courageous, talented founder, Arthur Mitchell. There are also original tour programs, posters and design bibles to peruse.

In 1969, Mitchell, then a principal ballet dancer, founded the company in a church basement in the aftermath of Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination. The company went on to make performing arts history and shattered barriers for future generations to come. 704-547-3700  or ganttcenter.org