This summer, Red Clay Dance Company took our Artivism from Chicago to the East Coast, performing at Jacob’s Pillow and The Yard for the very first time. For Founder & Artistic Director Vershawn Sanders-Ward, it was more than a debut—it was a full-circle journey back to the place where Red Clay’s story began. From legendary stages to historic communities, her reflection captures the milestones, emotions, and unforgettable moments that shaped our 2025 Summer Tour.

Part 2 of our Summer Tour series takes us to Martha’s Vineyard, where Red Clay Dance Company returned to The Yard for a two-week residency. For Founder & Artistic Director Vershawn Sanders-Ward, it was a full-circle moment nearly 20 years in the making. Through rehearsals, performances, and powerful community exchanges, our time at The Yard deepened our roots and expanded our vision for the future.

Red Clay Dance Company made its historic debut at Jacob’s Pillow this summer, bringing Artivism to one of the most iconic stages in the world. Hear directly from our Touring Company members as they reflect on the power, presence, and purpose behind this unforgettable performance.

Get to know the faces behind Red Clay Dance! Our Meet The Artivist series highlights the dancers, educators, and creatives dedicated to using dance as a tool for collaboration, education, and social change. Dive into their stories and see what fuels their passion for Artivism!

In September 2019, Vershawn Sanders-Ward traveled to Harvard University as the first Community Impact Scholar of the Harvard Business School Club of Chicago. Over four days, she immersed herself in coursework, community engagement, and leadership development. Reflecting on the experience, she shares insights on the impact of this opportunity and her continued commitment to non-profit leadership.

Founder and Artistic Director Vershawn Sanders-Ward brings truth, history, and liberation to the stage in her latest works, FAKE NEWS! and Harvester, premiering in Visions & Voices. Rooted in deep research and lived experiences, her choreography challenges perspectives and sparks dialogue. Don’t miss this powerful world premiere at the Harold Washington Cultural Center!

Red Clay Dance is thrilled to welcome Ann Carter to our Board of Directors! With over 30 years of corporate leadership in Procurement and Supply Chain at companies like BP, Ford, and Baxter Healthcare, Ann brings strategic expertise, a passion for diversity and inclusion, and a deep love for dance. A former Los Angeles Lakers dancer, she is excited to support Red Clay Dance’s mission of Artivism and long-term growth.

From youth ensemble member to summer intern, Arika Johnson shares how Red Clay Dance shaped her journey. Exploring arts administration, she worked behind the scenes on digital archives, marketing strategies, and company profiles—gaining a deeper appreciation for what it takes to run a company rooted in community. Read her reflections on coming full circle and finding a forever home at Red Clay Dance.

Lela Aisha Jones brings a powerful fusion of movement, history, and spirit to her work, intertwining personal and collective Black diasporic experiences. As Red Clay Dance prepares to premiere her latest piece, we:all ~ gon’ die into revivals, she shares insights on creation, collaboration, and the transformative power of dance. Don’t miss her world premiere at Visions & Voices on April 3-4!