Published: November 05, 2009 10:00 pm      

Michael Jackson tribute at college will benefit Allegany Arts Council

CUMBERLAND — A special one-night only “Tribute to M.J.,” hosted by the Steppin’ Out Dance Studio, will be presented on Nov. 14 at Allegany College of Maryland.

The performance will also serve as a benefit for the Allegany Arts Council. The dance company, which had already discussed doing a benefit concert in the fall before Michael Jackson’s death, decided to pay tribute to his honor while benefiting the arts in the community.

“The Allegany Arts Council supports so many artists and local organizations and some of our company members are a part of those organizations. I chose them in appreciation for opening up so many pathways for this community,” said Natalie Fisher, director, instructor and choreographer of Steppin’ Out Dance Studio.

The evening’s performance is gearing up to be an “eye-opening” tribute event, said Fisher. “Expect to feel like you are watching Michael’s life achievements come alive on stage,” she added. “I want the audience to understand who he was as a child and an adult and how much he did for the world. He cared about people and worked hard to help the poor, the sick, and teach us to care for one another. I think they will feel his heartache off the stage as well as the excitement he had performing on stage. We hope audiences will forget about the negativity in his life and leave with a sense of who he was as an artist.

“Regardless of how you felt about the music he created or your thoughts on the news that surrounded his life, Michael Jackson’s impact on pop culture is undeniable. The Steppin’ Out Dance Company will honor not just his very public image, but also the actual man behind that image who lived beyond the glare of the spotlight,” said Fisher.

For more information, call the Allegany Arts Council at (301) 777-2787 the Steppin’ Out Dance Studio at (301) 777-5360.