Converge Media and the #MorningUpdateShow brought Throwback Thursday to the Paramount Theatre with special guest Stephanie Johnson-Toliver, President of the Black Heritage Society of Washington State. The show also featured choreographers Etienne & Ellie, as well as performing artists Betty Michaels and Tia Naché. 

Johnson-Toliver spoke about the historical value of STG’s flagship buildings. She told stories and recalled facts about the Moore, Neptune and Paramount theatres, explaining the significance of each. 

“Black people were finding their way in the community, finding entertainment and recreation within the community,” Johnson-Toliver said. “But not so much in downtown Seattle.”

She said as the theatres began to open their doors to more people, though, the downtown corridor began to become a place for everyone. 

“There are fabulous programs now, you have organizations like Totem Star that are promoting the entertainment and the creativity in our young people,” Johnson-Toliver said. “STG now opening their venues and looking a little more diverse makes me excited about what they’re doing.”

We also spoke with choreographers Etienne Capko and Ellie Sandstrom, who will be performing at the ‘DANCE This!’ virtual event on August 13th. The event will stream live on STG’s Youtube. 

“The minute we opened our arms and started moving, it just started a connection,” Sandstrom said. “People from all over the world can watch online.”

They say dance allows them to express themselves and share their cultures with the world. 

“When you dance, you are a messenger,” Cakpo said. “When people are watching you, they are seeing different things. That is why dance is so good.”

The show closed with exciting performances from Betty Micheals, who performed his song ‘Best for You’, and spoken word artist Tia Naché bringing her piece ‘More Doors’ to the Paramount Stage. You can view their performances below. 

There’s still one day left for Converge Media at the Paramount. If you’d like to be part of our live studio audience, click here to RSVP.