ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — News10NBC celebrates Black History Month by honoring the people and places that have paved the way for many in the Rochester area.

He was born in Jamaica but made Rochester his home. Garth Fagan came to SUNY Brockport in 1970 to teach minority students the art of dance and stayed there for 30 years.

During that time, Fagan formed his dance company, formerly known as “Bottom of the Bucket”. With more than 50 seasons, the Garth Fagan Dance Company is internationally known.

In 1998, he won the Tony Award for best choreography of “The Lion King” Broadway musical. Fagan announced in 2023 he would be stepping away from leadership of the dance company. His new title is founder and distinguished artistic director emeritus.

The Garth Fagan technique is taught nationwide. However, his dance studio remains in the heart of Rochester. That’s why Garth Fagan is a part of our Rochester Roots.