There are few women who have influenced more young African-Americans in Philadelphia than Joan Myers Brown.

And the founder of internationally known, Philadelphia-based dance troupe Philadanco, had to outwork countless others in the white-dominated dance world just to have that chance.

Three hundred PNC employees and another 100 local business leaders had the chance to hear her story up close last week for PNC's annual Black History Month program, which year after year shines a light on oft-overlooked contributors to the region's African-American success story.

Myers Brown was joined by Temple professor Brenda Dixon Gottschild, who wrote the book "Joan Myers Brown and the Audacious Hope of the Black Ballerina," and a group of Philadanco dancers performing their signature blend of classical ballet, traditional African and Afro-American styles at PNC's Eastwick Center in Southwest Philly. The ladies discussed portions of the book, published late last year, and took questions.

JOE PETRUCCI is managing editor of Flying Kite. Send feedback here.

Photos by Mel Epps
Philadanco dancers perform at PNC's Black History Month celebration
Local business leaders look on as Joan Myers Brown, right on stage, tells story with Brenda Dixon Gottschild
A Philadanco dancer twirls
Myers Brown and her book