Remembering Charles Augins: A Legend, A Leader, A Legacy

Remembering Charles Augins: A Legend, A Leader, A Legacy ✨

We honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Charles Augins (1943–2025), founding Director and long-standing Chair of the Dance Department at Duke Ellington School of the Arts.

An Olivier Award, NAACP Award, and L.A. Theatre Ovation Award winner, Mr. Augins was not only a world-renowned choreographer but a devoted educator who shaped generations of artists with his brilliance, discipline, and heart.

From his early days training in Virginia and Washington, DC to working with every major Black choreographer in the U.S., Mr. Augins' journey took him to the stages of Broadway, the Royal Opera House, and international television. Whether as “Mr. A” on the BBC or receiving the Living Legend Award in D.C., his voice in the arts was unmistakable.

At Ellington, Mr. Augins wasn't just a teacher, he was a visionary. He led cultural exchanges with the Bolshoi and Kirov Ballet Schools, nurtured rising talent, and remained a cornerstone of our community through decades of excellence. In 2019, he became the first recipient of the Creed Award, a symbol of the values he so effortlessly embodied.

His impact echoes in every classroom, studio, and stage. Thank you, Mr. Augins, for teaching us to move with purpose and to lead with grace.

🖤 With love and eternal gratitude,

Your DESA Family

A memorial service for Mr. Augins will be held at the School on Sunday, September 14th and more details will be shared as soon as they are available.