Concerts & Events

The 3rd Annual Black History Future Folk Symposium returns April 17–18, 2026 here in Chicago!

Friday, April 17 | 6:00–8:30 PM

Saturday, April 18 | 12:00–6:30 PM

This year's symposium centers the legacy of the visionary dancer, choreographer, anthropologist, and cultural activist Katherine Dunham. With deep ties to Chicago, Dunham's groundbreaking fieldwork across the Caribbean, South America, and Africa helped shape the development of the Dunham Technique and expanded the possibilities of American modern dance.

Through presentations, panel discussions, participatory workshops, and performances, the symposium invites people of all ages to explore the intersections of Black history, liberated futures, and folk practices. Together, scholars, artists, and community members will engage in conversations and embodied practices that deepen our understanding of Afro-diasporic dance, music, and cultural knowledge.

Full schedule and presenter bios coming soon!