"Mary, A Holiday Dansical" - A New Holiday Tradition!

There are some moments in life that remind you why you do the work. For me, Mary, A Holiday Dansical was one of those moments.

On December 14, we witnessed something truly special: a sold-out audience, radiant young dancers, and a community coming together to celebrate joy, excellence, and the beauty of Black girlhood through the arts. What started as a dream is quickly becoming a holiday tradition sweeping Chicago—and prayerfully, one day, the world.

Behind the scenes, Mary was powered by an incredible village. From ticketing with the seamless support of Ticket Falcon to flavorful pre-show bites from Bill’s Grill Catering, we partnered with vendors who truly understand the mission. It takes so many moving parts to bring a production like this to life—and every detail matters.

The night was elevated with our special Fireside Chat featuring none other than Nia Sioux from Dance Moms, who shared openly about her journey and what spaces like Black Girls Dance would have meant to her growing up. And just when we thought the moment couldn’t get any sweeter—a surprise video from the legendary Misty Copeland arrived, encouraging our dancers and reminding them of the legacy they are stepping into.

From the choreography to the costumes, from the parents who helped behind the scenes to the community that filled every seat—we are building something sacred.

One of the most unforgettable moments of the evening was the launch of our very first Paddle Raise in support of Full Circle Performing Arts Center—our soon-to-be permanent home! With my hard hat on and our mini “construction angels” in neon vests collecting pledges, we invited the audience to invest in the future of BGD. The response was overwhelming—almost $40,000 raised in one night! Full Circle will be more than a building; it will be a creative sanctuary where young artists thrive, where wellness and innovation meet, and where our legacy as Black creatives is honored and expanded. This was a night where dreams took flight—and foundations were laid.

Mary, A Holiday Dansical is more than a performance. It’s a movement. It’s a mirror and a megaphone for our girls. And it’s just the beginning.

With gratitude and big vision,

Erin