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!
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!
RAD Fest Spotlight on Red Clay Dance
At the 2013 Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival (RAD Fest), Red Clay Dance captivated audiences with Gone 2 Soon. Festival coordinator Rachel Miller praised Artistic Director Vershawn Sanders’ fusion of African, modern, and hip-hop dance, calling it “very original, very grounded… and surprising.” Featured on the cover of the Kalamazoo Gazette Sunday Arts section, this performance was a standout moment in the festival’s lineup.
Red Clay Dance performs in Kalamazoo!
Red Clay Dance made its Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival debut in Kalamazoo, MI, presenting Gone 2 Soon, a powerful new work. Artistic Director Vershawn Sanders also led a masterclass and joined a panel discussion, deepening the festival’s exploration of dance and storytelling. From open rehearsals to thought-provoking performances, this weekend was a celebration of movement, dialogue, and community.
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.