Summer Tour Reflections, Part 3: A Full-Circle Homecoming
As the curtain falls on Red Clay Dance Company’s first East Coast tour, we find ourselves reflecting on a journey that has been years—if not decades—in the making. Over two and a half weeks, our dancers, artistic team, and crew carried the spirit of Chicago to the cultural landscapes of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
We began this summer with a bold mission: to bring our unique blend of movement and Artivism to some of the most storied stages in American dance. From the first rehearsal to the final bow, the tour became more than a performance schedule—it was a living, breathing testament to our roots, our resilience, and the relationships that have shaped us.
At the heart of this final chapter is a reflection from our Founder and Artistic Director, Vershawn Sanders-Ward, who led the company through every step of the tour.
2025 Summer Tour Reflection
by Vershawn Sanders-Ward, Founder & Artistic Director
This summer was nothing short of unforgettable. Our company had the tremendous honor of making its debut at two of the most iconic spaces in American dance: Jacob’s Pillow and The Yard. To step foot onto the Pillow’s hallowed grounds for the first time—and to know that my work is now part of the largest and most prestigious archive of dance in the world—feels truly surreal. It's a moment I will carry with me forever.
Returning to The Yard, where I first performed and presented my very first solo back in 2007, was a full-circle moment that hit deep. One of the most emotional highlights was meeting the daughter of The Yard’s founder, Patricia Nanon. I was able to share with her that I had the great privilege of performing in the final work Patricia choreographed before her passing. That conversation was a beautiful, unexpected reminder of how far this journey has come and the people who helped shape it.
Our performances were incredibly well received, and I couldn't be prouder of our dancers, who brought such heart and soul to every stage. The artistry, commitment, and spirit they carried throughout each show were nothing short of inspiring.
Let’s not forget the road warrior reality of the tour—a solid two and a half weeks of driving a 12-passenger mini-van through Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. We brought our unique brand of Artivism to every stop: Hartford, Providence, Becket, and Martha’s Vineyard. Tiring? Absolutely. Worth it? Without a doubt.
One of the most moving experiences of the trip was joining the historic Polar Bears at Inkwell Beach in Oak Bluffs. This intergenerational community—primarily Black swimmers who gather each morning between July 4th and Labor Day—has held space since 1946 as a place of safety, joy, and strength. To be welcomed into that legacy was humbling and affirming, a powerful reminder of the communities we serve and celebrate through our work.
This tour not only marked significant milestones but also planted seeds for future summers. We leave with full hearts, new connections, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Until next time—thank you, Massachusetts (and beyond), for embracing us.
Looking Ahead
With the final bow still fresh in our minds, we carry the energy of this summer into the next chapter of Red Clay Dance Company’s journey. The relationships we built and the audiences we connected with will shape our touring footprint for years to come.
From Jacob’s Pillow to The Yard, from Inkwell Beach to the bustling streets of Hartford and Providence, this tour reaffirmed that our mission—awakening “glocal” Artivism through dances of the African Diaspora—resonates far beyond Chicago.
Thank you to every presenter, audience member, community partner, and supporter who made Summer 2025 possible. This was more than a tour—it was a homecoming, a celebration, and a promise of what’s still to come.
