“Why Not Us: Grambling Dance,” the fifth season of the acclaimed “Why Not Us” series, premieres Wednesday exclusively on ESPN+. The new, eight-episode ESPN+ Original will go beyond the performances of one of the most well-respected historically Black colleges and universities dance lines in the country — the Orchesis Dance Company at Grambling State University.
Like previous seasons of “Why Not Us,” which followed the North Carolina Central men’s basketball team, FAMU’s football program, Southern University’s dance team and Howard University’s golf program, “Why Not Us: Grambling Dance” will examine the distinct culture, experiences and challenges of an HBCU athletic program.
When and how can I watch “Why Not Us: Grambling Dance”?
Episode 1: Everybody is Somebody
As the new director of the Orchesis Dance Company, J’aime Griffith looks to continue her predecessor’s legacy of excellence. First on the agenda, choosing a captain.
Debuts Wednesday
Episode 2: Earning Your Spot
The Orchesis have their first auditions for a pep rally performance at Grambling. Essence contemplates her future with the dance company.
Debuts Oct. 11
Episode 3: A Clean Five
It’s the first game and nerves impact the Orchesis during auditions. J’aime overextends herself as she juggles her responsibilities.
Debuts Oct. 18
Episode 4: The Energy Enforcer
J’aime brings in an Orchesis alum to inject energy into the team. Gaja hopes to perform in her hometown, but it doesn’t go as planned.
Debuts Oct. 25
Episode 5: That’s Orchesis’ Style
For the first home game, J’aime hopes to wow the crowd by adding challenging elements to the Orchesis’ performance. Ebony gets an opportunity to choreograph a future routine for the Orchesis.
Debuts Nov. 1
Episode 6: Commit Fully
During a week jam-packed with three performances, some veteran dancers struggle with time management and suffer the consequences. J’aime depends on an inexperienced group to take the field.
Debuts Nov. 8
Episode 7: Happy Homecoming
It’s homecoming week at Grambling and the Orchesis’ alumni return to share wisdom and celebrate the current members. Expectations are high for a stellar performance and Laila hopes her growth will secure her first game-day selection.
Debuts Nov. 15
Episode 8: No Half Stepping
The biggest performance of the season goes down in New Orleans against rival Southern University. J’aime sends shockwaves through the Orchesis and foregoes tradition to determine the final roster for Bayou Classic.
Debuts Nov. 22
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