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Step

Ajyal Competition

Synopsis

Being Black in the USA has long presented significant social and economic challenges; being a woman is a test of its own, in the States and worldwide. In ‘Step’, these concerns are combined as a group of young women gamely prepare for competition, college and what lies ahead. The Lethal Ladies of the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women are a formidable step team, and the film follows their progress as they rehearse their routines while at the same time working to meet the gruelling requirements to apply to the universities of their choice. Providing invaluable support are their step-team coach and the teachers and counsellors at school.

The setting of the documentary is among the most violent and crime-fraught of American cities. As the girls nail their moves and are more and more hopeful of a big win, they discover empowerment and teamwork, learn to stand up for themselves and present with confidence – and execute some seriously wicked dance moves. Black power, girl power, camaraderie and success come together – both on the stage and behind the scenes – as these inspiring young women stomp their way to emancipation and a blindingly bright future.

Official Film Website

About the Directors

Amanda Lipitz is a Tony Award-winning Broadway producer and documentary filmmaker. Known for her short films that highlight philanthropic organisations and their impact, Lipitz has made more than 30 documentaries for organisations such as the Young Women’s Leadership Network, Citymeals on Wheels, the College Bound Initiative, The Tory Burch Foundation, Barnard College, Turnaround for Children, The Gateway School and many others. She graduated with a BFA in Theatre from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

Credits

Director

Amanda Lipitz

Producer

Steven Cantor, Amanda Lipitz

Editor

Penelope Falk

Executive Producer

Dan Cogan, Geralyn Dreyfous, Jenny Raskin, Scott Rudin, Paul G. Allen, Carole Tomko, Micheal Flaherty, Barbara Dobkin, Regina K. Scully, Debra Mcleod And Jay Sears, Ann & Andrew Tisch

Co-Producer

Jamie Schutz

Music

Laura Karpman, Raphael Saadiq

Cinematographer

Casey Regan

Production Company

Stick Figure

Distributor

Park Circus

Cast

Paula Dofat, Blessin Giraldo, Cori Grainger, Tayla Solomon

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