Celebrate Black Arts and Culture
Your essential guide to discovering and supporting African American performing arts in Chicago and beyond.
01.
Discover
Easily find and attend shows, performances, and cultural events led by Black and Brown artists.
02.
Engage
Join a thriving network that promotes local talent and fosters cultural appreciation among diverse communities.
03.
Support
Empowering artists through resources, visibility, and opportunities to connect with the community.
The Color Purple
It’s a celebration of life, hope and the healing power of love! The Color Purple musical stage adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize- and National Book Award-winning novel is a […]
Chicago, IL 60601 United States
Twisted Melodies
Flashback to 1979, when singer and composer Donny Hathaway was a soul music icon, known for R&B hits and his duets with Roberta Flack. This mesmerizing one-man show immerses us […]
Skokie, IL 60077 United States
XL Fest 25
Our annual Film Festival and Summit brings together industry professionals, providing an immersive experience for audiences. From thought-provoking panels to film showcases, we aim to celebrate the power of storytelling […]
chicago, IL 60637 United States
West African Dance Masterclass with Sekou Conde
West African Dance Masterclass with Sekou Conde from Muntu Dance Theatre. The event will be held on August 17th from 10 am - 12 pm.
Chicago, IL 60640 United States
Blue Heaven
Previews: September 6, 7, 12, 13 Open: September 14 Close: October 26 Written and Directed by Daryl D. Brooks A Soul-Stirring Celebration of the Blues Get ready for a wild, […]
Chicago, IL, Illinois 60640 United States
About Black Arts Directory
The Black Arts & Culture Alliance of Chicago created and maintains The Black Arts Directory to serve as a vibrant online hub to highlight area Black performing arts and events. We spotlight theatre, dance, music, film, literary, and visual arts events.
Dedicated to supporting and preserving the rich heritage of Black arts and culture in Chicago, BACA empowers Black artists and organizations, bridges communities, fosters support, and promotes cultural exchange.
Our Initiatives
Explore our various programs designed to uplift and support underrepresented artists in the community.
Artist Grants
We provide financial support to emerging artists, helping them to create and showcase their work effectively.
Workshops
Attend our skill-building workshops aimed at enhancing artists’ talents and promoting professional growth in the arts.
Community Events
Join us for events that celebrate culture and community involvement, featuring performances and discussions with local artists.
Join the Movement
Your contribution can make a significant impact in uplifting artists and enhancing the community.
Inspiring Transformations
Read about the lives changed and the impact of our programs on local artists and communities.
Dancer's Journey
Celebrate the rhythm, roots, and resilience of Black dance in Chicago. From traditional African movements to hip-hop, modern, and ballet, the Dance section of the Black Arts Directory showcases the vibrant pulse of our community. Discover performances, companies, and choreographers keeping Black cultural expression alive—on stage and in the streets. Whether it’s footwork on the South Side or Afro-Caribbean fusion in public spaces, this is where movement meets meaning.
Musician's Rise
Chicago’s Black music scene is the heartbeat of a global movement. From jazz and gospel to house, blues, soul, hip-hop, and R&B, the Music section of the Black Arts Directory celebrates the artists, bands, and institutions shaping the soundtrack of our culture. Explore local talent, legendary venues, and upcoming performances that reflect the soul, struggle, and spirit of Black expression—past, present, and future.
Get Involved Today
Support Black and Brown artists by contributing to our initiatives by adding to our celebration of culture in Chicago.