Princess Mhoon, the esteemed director of the Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project, sat in a vibrant cafe near the University of Chicago, reminiscing about her upbringing in the city’s thriving arts scene. She spoke fondly of her parents’ involvement in African dance and her early experiences at the theater. Mhoon, dressed in a stunning purple and orange dress, pointed out her high school, Kenwood Academy, just a short distance away.
As she shared her journey, Mhoon highlighted the influential figures she encountered in Chicago’s Black dance world. From neighbors teaching Katherine Dunham technique to her training at Muntu Dance Theater and Najwa Dance Corps, her path was shaped by the city’s rich dance heritage. Amidst her storytelling, Mhoon emphasized the importance of preserving and honoring these contributions through the Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project.
Established in 2019 by the Joyce Foundation and the Logan Center for the Arts, the project aims to support and recognize Black dance makers in the city. It addresses the disparity in funding that many of these companies face, as highlighted in a 2019 report. While established companies like the Joffrey Ballet and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago receive the majority of grant funding, over 30% of dancers and choreographers in Chicago identify as Black.
The project seeks to combat this fragmentation and lack of financial support by bringing together established and emerging companies. It provides financial assistance, helps with archiving projects, and offers organizational support. Each company receives personalized improvement plans, including guidance on board governance, marketing strategies, and executive coaching. Regular gatherings for knowledge sharing and collaborative group performances further strengthen the sense of community.
Bril Barrett, the founder of M.A.D.D. Rhythms, a tap company that recently joined the Legacy Project, shared his experience of feeling marginalized within the broader dance community. However, through the project, he found a sense of relief and connection with like-minded individuals. The project has not only offered structural support for his company but also a valuable community where shared knowledge can be exchanged.
Joel Hall, founder of Joel Hall Dancers & Center, expressed his belief in the project’s mission to ensure the longevity of dance companies and their history. Hall sees it as his responsibility to protect and support the younger generations, viewing them all as part of his extended dance family.
Alongside the preservation of archives, the Legacy Project recognizes the importance of passing down embodied movement practices. The dancers themselves are the living historians, carrying forward their heritage and traditions. By bringing together a diverse range of companies and practitioners, the project challenges the boundaries of Black dance, allowing for the exploration of new techniques and collaborations.
This year, the Era Footwork Crew, a collective known for their footwork technique developed in Chicago, became a part of the Legacy Project. They are thrilled to work alongside their mentors and acknowledge the potential for older companies to be influenced by this addition. The inclusive and collaborative nature of the project creates a revolving circle of knowledge and support.
The Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project serves as a beacon of hope and unity within Chicago’s Black dance community. It aims to preserve the past, nurture the present, and inspire the future of dance, ensuring that these invaluable contributions are celebrated and cherished for generations to come.
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