Harry Belafonte’s Family Continues His Legacy With A Night of Fashion, Theater, and Unity Answers
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The legendary Harry Belafonte, a groundbreaking artist and activist, left an indelible mark on the worlds of music, film, and civil rights. His influence extended far beyond his own career, inspiring generations not just with his artistry but with his commitment to justice and cultural elevation. That legacy continues to thrive through his family, who have embraced his creative roots and carried them forward with distinction.
Daughter Shari Belafonte is a well-known actress with a recurring role in Tyler Perry’s Sistas. And late last year his son David Belafonte and his family staged “Malena Belafonte’s Boudoir” a breathtaking fusion of fashion, theater, and performance at the inaugural Belafonte Family Foundation gala. The sold-out event was directed, produced, and choreographed by Malena Belafonte, the daughter-in-law of the late Harry Belafonte. TV/Radio Personality Jazmyn Summers was there to capture the magic for Radio One.
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Harry Belafonte’s son and Malena’s husband David Belafonte served as associate producer. Sarafina Belafonte took on the role of assistant choreographer and delivered a powerful vocal debut of her original single, “Wandering Eye.” Grandson Amadeus Belafont moved the audience with a heartfelt rendition of “I Will Cover You (Reprise)” during a tribute segment, making the evening as emotionally charged as it was visually stunning.
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Sarafina’s performance, marking her first major single release, reflected her inheritance of the Belafonte legacy. She blended her unique voice with the family’s long-standing influence in arts and culture. Her expressive choreography, paired with dynamic collaborations from co-choreographer Sarah Kaplan and ballroom artist Krisi Dalipi, added layers of storytelling and elegance to the event.
“He (Harry) was one of the first Black men of his caliber to take on the spaces he did,” said Sarafina. “And so there’s not a guidebook for that. He was writing it himself, and I think as he got older and as those lessons were learned, he was able to show up for us in such a special and incredible way.”
The runway dazzled with couture designs by Heike NY, Aforieke, and Hermione Elma, with pieces curated by Style by Rahel. Creations from Warlock JP, The Confessional Showroom, John Ashford, Mieux Swimwear, and John Ash Alive Shoes further enriched the fashion narrative, emphasizing style as a storytelling medium.
Malena Belafonte is the founder of The Journey Fashion Festival and Pink Pirate Agency. She and her family continue to honor Harry Belafonte’s legacy while carving their own path in the creative arts.
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Source: Jazmyn Summers / Jazmyn Summers
Article by Jazmyn Summers. You can hear her every morning on “Jazmyn in the Morning “on Sirius XM Channel 362 Grown Folk Jamz and subscribe to Jazmyn Summers’ YouTube. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
