Louis Johnson and company members in rehearsal

Louis Johnson (b. 1931), whose credits include the Broadway musical Purlie, and the film version of "The Wiz", was one of the first African American choreographers to set work on the Dance Theatre of Harlem company. He began his choreography career in 1953 and became known for his blending of styles and genres in a witty manner. "Forces of Rhythm" incorporated a variety of dance and music genres associated with African American performances as well as ballet and classical music. It became a signature piece and remained in the Dance Theatre of Harlem repertory until the 1990s.