In a society where opportunities for male self-expression are often constrained, Jamaican dancer and educator Royane Green is pioneering a transformative initiative. Through the J’Adam Male Dance Workshop, Green is fostering a safe environment for men to explore creativity, build community, and address mental health challenges via the art of dance. Launched earlier this year, the workshop recently concluded its first summer session, blending modern dance training with discussions on mental and physical well-being. Green, a principal dancer with Movements Dance Company of Jamaica and an adjunct lecturer at Edna Manley College, drew inspiration from his mentor, Patrick Johnson, who exemplified strength and openness in male dance. The J’Adam initiative, rooted in Green’s faith and vision of a ‘new Jamaican man,’ encourages participants to embrace vulnerability, challenge societal norms, and find purpose through movement. In Jamaica, where male dancers often face stigma, Green’s workshop provides a rare space for men to express themselves freely. The program’s inclusivity was highlighted by the participation of Chris, a deaf dancer, who fully engaged in both artistic and mental health components. Green envisions J’Adam as a tool for social intervention, aiming to partner with organizations focused on crime prevention and empower men to find their voices. The workshop also opens doors to professional dance careers, challenging misconceptions about the viability of creative arts. Supported by the Honey Bun Foundation, Green plans to expand the program, incorporating diverse dance styles and reaching more young men. He invites all aspiring male dancers to join J’Adam, emphasizing the transformative power of dance in fostering emotional and psychological growth.
