Exploring the Intersection of Performance, Identity Politics, and Media Representation
Meet Olabanke Goriola: Performer, Artist-Scholar, and Multidisciplinary Ph.D. Student
Investigating the Perpetuation of Euro-American Beauty Standards on Dark-Skinned Female Dancers
As a multidisciplinary artist-scholar, I am passionate about exploring the intersections of race, performance, and identity politics. My research investigates the perpetuation of Euro-American beauty standards on dark-skinned female dancers, using a range of approaches from research and analysis to performance and public speaking to engage with complex issues of representation and belonging.
My vision is to contribute to a more equitable and just society by challenging dominant narratives and expanding our understanding of the intersections of performance, identity politics, and media representation. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to question the status quo and imagine new possibilities for the future.
My mission is to use performance, research, and public speaking to raise awareness about the ways in which Euro-American beauty standards perpetuate systemic discrimination and inequality. By engaging with diverse audiences and stakeholders, I aim to create meaningful dialogue and inspire change.
My Skills and Expertise
My skills and expertise span a wide range of areas, including research and analysis, performance studies, and multidisciplinary approaches. I bring a unique perspective to my work, informed by my background in dance, theater, and cultural studies, and grounded in rigorous academic training.
Council for Race and Ethnic Studies (CRES) Graduate Fellow
Northwestern University
As a Council for Race and Ethnic Studies (CRES) Graduate Fellow at Northwestern University, I collaborate with colleagues across disciplines to develop innovative approaches to social justice research and activism.
Department of Performance Studies Ph.D. Student
University of Illinois at Chicago
As a Ph.D. student in the Department of Performance Studies at Northwestern University, I engage in cutting-edge research and scholarship on the intersections of race, performance, and identity politics.
Guest Lecturer, University of Illinois at Chicago
University of California, Los Angeles
As a guest lecturer at the University of Illinois at Chicago, I teach courses on dance, performance, and cultural studies, inspiring students to think critically about issues of representation and belonging.
Research Assistant, Northwestern University
The Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago
As a research assistant at Northwestern University, I support faculty research and scholarship in a range of areas, from performance studies to gender and sexuality studies.
Research and Analysis
Performance Studies
Multidisciplinary Approach
Event Administration
Performing Research and Redefining Representation
I am a multidisciplinary artist-scholar who is passionate about exploring the intersections of race, performance, and identity politics. With a background in dance, theater, and cultural studies, I bring a unique perspective to my work, informed by rigorous academic training and grounded in a deep commitment to social justice. Through my research, performance, and public speaking, I aim to challenge dominant narratives and expand our understanding of the possibilities for a more equitable and just society.
Research and Analysis
With expertise in research and analysis, I am skilled at identifying key insights and trends across a range of fields, from cultural studies to sociology to media representation.
Performance Studies
As a performance studies scholar, I bring a unique perspective to my work, informed by my background in dance, theater, and cultural studies, and grounded in rigorous academic training.
Multidisciplinary Approach
I specialize in a multidisciplinary approach to research and scholarship, bringing together diverse methodologies and perspectives to create innovative solutions to complex problems.
Event Administration
With experience in event administration, I am skilled at organizing and executing complex events, from conferences to performances, with a focus on attention to detail and seamless execution.
My Projects and Research
My current research focuses on the perpetuation of Euro-American beauty standards on dark-skinned female dancers, using a range of approaches from research and analysis to performance and public speaking to engage with complex issues of representation and belonging. I have also developed a range of performance and research projects that explore the intersections of race, performance, and identity politics.
Multidisciplinary Approach
5 Years
Performance Studies
5 Years
Get in Touch
If you have any questions or are interested in learning more about my work, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am always happy to connect with others who share my passion for redefining representation and creating a more equitable world.
- Learn more about my projects and research
- Explore opportunities for collaboration
- Discuss possibilities for speaking engagements
Peer Testimonials
“Olabanke’s work is truly groundbreaking. Her research, performance, and public speaking have inspired me to think more critically about issues of representation and power.” – Jane Doe
"Olabanke's work is truly groundbreaking. Her research, performance, and public speaking have inspired me to think more critically about issues of representation and power." - Jane Doe
John Smith
"Olabanke is a true leader in her field, bringing together diverse methodologies and perspectives to create innovative solutions to complex problems." - John Smith
Ginger Jane
"Olabanke is an exceptional scholar and performer, whose work has opened up new avenues for research and activism in the field of performance studies." - Sarah Johnson
Tarissa Kith
"Working with Olabanke was an absolute pleasure. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence were evident in all aspects of the project, and her unique perspective and expertise added tremendous value." - Michael Brown
June Snow