In the world of dance, few artists transcend performance to become storytellers of culture, resilience, and transformation. Samantha Barriento — a proud Queens native with Dominican roots — has carved her path through discipline, charisma, and an unwavering commitment to movement as narrative. From her formative years at LaGuardia Performing Arts High School and the Ailey/Fordham BFA program to her celebrated time with Ailey II, Samantha’s journey reflects both artistry and p

YV Media: Your poetry often carries a sense of personal and communal storytelling. How do you decide which stories to bring to the stage, and what determines whether a piece is ready to be shared publicly? Dwayne Morgan: I do a lot of writing and based on what I see happening in the world around me, and how I feel about it, I often decide to memorize pieces that speak to the moment. I always try to be topical and on time with what is happening in the world, to be a voice for

Where luxury meets rebellion, Black Rose Market stands as a bold new voice in fashion. Born from the raw pulse of New York City and refined with the timeless sophistication of Parisian couture, BRM redefines what it means to be unapologetically authentic.