MS. Erin

Erin Barnett’s dance journey began at Chicago’s legendary Mayfair Academy, a cultural
beacon on the South Side, known for producing influential alumni—including former
First Lady Michelle Obama. Erin made history as the first African American “Clara” in
Ruth Page’s The Nutcracker at Arie Crown, a testament to her trailblazing spirit, which
would become a defining theme throughout her career.
As a proud member of the inaugural dance major class at Howard University, Erin
graduated with her BFA in 1998. Her professional career spans over three decades,
featuring world tours with Garth Fagan Dance, Philadanco!, and teaching at the Debbie
Allen Dance Academy. Erin also performed in the original cast of The Lion King in Las
Vegas, gracing prestigious stages such as Dancing With the Stars, the Daytime Emmys,
and the Billboard Awards alongside Beyoncé. In 2022, Erin returned to the Lion King
(Rafiki Tour) for 3 months and was over the moon to fit into her original costumes!
After returning to Chicago, Erin brought her wealth of experience back to her hometown.
She taught at Northwestern University, Roosevelt University, Columbia College and the
Lou Conte Dance Studio. She also taught at Mayfair for five years before stepping into
the role of Artistic Director. Her passion for empowering young dancers inspired the
founding of Black Girls Dance® (BGD) in 2015. What began as a mentorship program
has evolved into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, providing year-round arts education for over 200
students, aged 3-18.
BGD® has become a transformative force, providing more than $50K in tuition
scholarships, creating life-changing opportunities for young Black and Brown dancers.
From performing at the sold-out Harris Theater to the Democracy Forum and Chicago
Sky WNBA games, BGD® has brought the brilliance of its dancers to some of the
biggest stages. Erin’s leadership also garnered national attention when BGD® was
spotlighted on Michelle Obama’s social media platforms as well as the Obama
Foundation’s website —a global recognition of the impact BGD has on the South Side
and beyond.
But Erin’s proudest accomplishment thus far has been writing, producing,
choreographing and directing - Mary, A Holiday Dansical, a modern twist on Black
Nativity that showcases Ballet, Hip-Hop, Jazz, and Contemporary dance. Performed by
BGD’s Junior and Senior Ensemble and professional guest artists, the production has
quickly become a new holiday tradition, bringing intergenerational audiences to their
feet.
Through advocacy, equity, and the transformative power of the arts, Erin Barnett
and Black Girls Dance® are redefining what’s possible for young dancers, giving them
not just the tools to excel in dance but the confidence to thrive in life. BGD® is Erin’s
dream realized, and her commitment to uplifting the next generation of leaders
continues to inspire.