
OUR HERSTORY

Words to Live By: Artivism
At Red Clay Dance, Artivism is more than a philosophy—it’s a call to action. Through dance, we raise awareness, build community, and spark change. Company leaders, artists, and students share their perspectives on how Artivism fuels our work, from performances to education. What does Artivism mean to you?

Red Clay Dance: 2013 Summer/Fall Events
The season is packed with powerful performances and collaborations! Catch us at the Harvest Chicago Contemporary Dance Festival on September 21, experience our In the Works Residency with Keiga Dance Company at the Chicago Cultural Center, and don’t miss the premiere of On Hallowed Ground on October 6. We’re closing out the season with a bang—join us for our 5th Anniversary Fall Concert & Paint the Town Red Party on October 18-19 at Logan Arts Center. Stay tuned for ticket details and be part of the movement!

Dance4Peace - An Evening of Bliss
The Dance4Peace Youth Explosion was a night filled with energy, joy, and powerful performances at the Gary Comer Youth Center. With a buzzing backstage, heartfelt tributes, and an audience eager to witness the magic, the evening truly captured the spirit of community and celebration. From honoring mothers to bidding farewell to documentary filmmaker Timothy Lydon, every moment was unforgettable. Relive the excitement and join us at our next performances—because the movement never stops!

Tell your Friends in Fuller Park: The Corner Office belongs to Red Clay Dance!
Exciting news—Red Clay Dance has a new home at Fuller Park Fieldhouse! Thanks to a partnership with the Chicago Park District, we now have dedicated rehearsal space and an office to continue our mission. Our Teen Club dance program, running Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 4-6 p.m., is completely free and open to all teens—boys, we need you too! With professional company rehearsals and dance classes kicking off, Fuller Park is about to feel like a scene straight out of Fame. Spread the word and come dance with us!

Dance4Peace 2013 Youth Dance Explosion, May 11, 2013
Mark your calendars! On May 11, 2013, Red Clay Dance, in partnership with the Gary Comer Youth Center, presents Dance 4 Peace—a powerful celebration of dance and youth empowerment. Featuring some of the best youth dance groups from across Chicagoland, this event is all about unity, expression, and community. No competition, no awards—just movement, joy, and purpose. Proceeds support Red Clay Dance’s education and community engagement programs. Get your tickets now and help bring dance education to Chicago’s youth!

Chicago Community Trust-Young Leaders Fund and Cliff Dwellers Foundation
Red Clay Dance is honored to receive two new grants in support of our work! The Chicago Community Trust-Young Leaders Fund awarded $6,775 to help bring the TransAtlantic Project to life, recognizing our commitment to cross-cultural collaboration. Additionally, the Cliff Dwellers Club granted $750, celebrating our impact in the arts. We are deeply grateful for this support as we continue to elevate Artivism through dance!

Red Clay Dance: Season 2012 - 2013
The 2012-2013 season was packed with movement, mentorship, and meaningful collaborations. From the Summer Intensive and company auditions to the TransAtlantic Project—a groundbreaking festival uniting Red Clay Dance and Uganda’s Keiga Dance Company—this season embodied the company’s commitment to training, performance, and international exchange. Whether nurturing emerging dancers or showcasing bold new works, Red Clay Dance continued to push the boundaries of Afro-contemporary dance.

Time Out Chicago & Culturadar Critic's Pick: Celebrating Our Legacy
Time Out Chicago & Culturadar Critic's Pick: Celebrating Our Legacy
Red Clay Dance Company’s Celebrating Our Legacy was named a Critic’s Pick by Time Out Chicago and Culturadar—and for good reason. This powerful one-night-only performance at Kennedy-King College’s Katherine Dunham Theater highlighted the company’s signature storytelling rooted in the African Diaspora, introduced a growing youth company, and tackled pressing social issues through dance. Featuring new works, collaborations, and a show-stopping finale, Celebrating Our Legacy was truly one to remember.