Celebrating Black History Month: A Night at the Apollo Recap

The Kent Place School community came together once again to celebrate Black History Month with a wonderful showcase of talent and culture across all levels of the school at A Night at the Apollo. This annual event, hosted by the Diversity and Equity Parent Group (DEPG), took place on Wednesday, February 21, in the Great Room, with more than 200 in attendance.

From the Primary, Middle, and Upper Schools, solo and group acts took center stage, captivating the audience with their performances — including original works.

In a creative tribute, second-graders presented a historical narrative honoring seven influential African American women, while Middle Schoolers delivered poignant poetry exploring the theme of belonging. Upper School Dance Ensemble and Chamber Dancers dazzled the crowd with original choreography by Upper School Dance teacher Ms. Hudson.

Guiding the evening's festivities were emcees Maya Hardy ’26, Vivienne Vengroff ’27, and Gabi Pelzer ’29, students who brought their energy and enthusiasm to the stage, keeping the audience engaged and entertained throughout the event.

Adding to the cultural celebration was a feast honoring diverse culinary traditions from the Black diaspora.

A Night at the Apollo would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of countless individuals. The DEPG extends heartfelt thanks to all students, parents, faculty, and staff who contributed to making this evening a resounding success, with special recognition for Dining Services, Facilities, and Operations Manager Kasanu Sims for their invaluable support.

A round of applause also goes to faculty members Edel Thomas (Director of Performing Arts), Ruthanna Graves-McQueen (Primary School Music), Amanda Hudson (Upper School Dance), and Terri Whitaker (Jr. Pre-K Teaching Assistant), whose contributions helped bring the event to life.

Behind the scenes, the DEPG Black History Month Planning Committee — Ahadi Bugg-Levine ’35, Tyhisha Henry (Assistant Director of DEIB), Walidah Justice (Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer), Adaeze Nwachuku P ’22 ’24, Karima Ravenell ’26, and Danielle Robinson P ’28 — ensured that every detail was perfect.

Featured performers: Hannah Folorunso ’37, Thea Thompson ’37, Bahar Basu-Kayal ’34, Emery Ferguson ’34 Sarina McCreary ’34, Naomi McCreary ’29, Elizabeth Moyo ’34, Alina Rosefort ’32, Halle Rosefort ’34, Sloane Smith ’34, Addie Walker ’34, Dylan Klug ’29, Joelle Devieux ’30, Ava Soares ’30, Jada Tabron ’29, Isabella Deng ’25, Corynne Watkins ’25         Upper School Dance Ensemble, Upper School Chamber Dancers, Gabrielle Liberman ’24, and Upper School Chamber Singers