Chris Steele-Perkins' 1978 Wolverhampton Dance Photo Goes on Display in Home City

A photograph taken by Chris Steele-Perkins in 1978 at Wolverhampton's Culture Centre, showing young Black people dancing to reggae, is now on display at the Grand Theatre in Wolverhampton from 4 to 31 October. The image, first exhibited at V&A East in 'The Music Is Black: A British Story', has been shown worldwide and is one of Steele-Perkins' most recognised works. It was commissioned by the Sunday Times magazine to mark 10 years since Enoch Powell's 'Rivers of Blood' speech. Vivienne Dawes, the central dancer, said seeing the photo felt like time travel and that the music made them feel like they were on another planet. Her dance was later recreated in a painting by Claudette Johnson, which will also appear in the Wolverhampton show. Winston Logan, pictured at the back left, recalled the lack of opportunities for young Black people at the time and how the Culture Centre provided a hub for music and community. The exhibition idea arose after Wolverhampton Grand Theatre staff saw the photo at V&A East. Curator Tonia Daley-Campbell said the image brings the dancefloor back to life and aims to name all those pictured. A launch event on Sunday will reunite several subjects, including reggae artist Macka B, Owen MacFarlane, Casa Simpson, Lisa Green and Sharon Underwood. Admission is free.