Friday kicks off Black History Month across the nation and here in Rochester.

Spectrum News is dedicated to marking the month and highlighting the many voices that make Rochester special.

We sat down with world-renowned choreographer and Rochester native Garth Fagan about a major upcoming milestone.

"I can believe that it's 50 years and when I look at all the gray hairs I know it's 50 years," Fagan said.

Fagan is well known for his work on the Lion King musical.

He says he started his dance company, Garth Fagan Dance, because he wanted to see steps on stage that had never been seen before.

Now, having performed in nine countries around the world, Fagan says there are a few things he does differently that have really stood out.

"All the critics around the world said they've never seen moves like these and they love the movement invention in the company," Fagain said. "And my women are also extremely strong. My women don't sit around waiting on princes. If they want a prince they go get one and they are very strong. They jump and turn with the best of the men. So that's another important virtue."

Fagan says the company will celebrate that 50 year anniversary in may of next year at the convention center.