PREMIER MIDWEST POPPING EXPERIENCE

OUT OF THE SHADOWS

May 7 - 10, 2026

What ATTENDEES SAY

  • "This trip was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. The Midwest is on the rise, and I absolutely want to see it from the front row."

  • "Out of the Shadows is the best pure popping event I've ever been to. From the judges and music to being professional and on time, it's the perfect event."

  • "Honestly, this is the best popping battle in the U.S. right now. Get your butt to the next one."

  • "The energy this weekend was overwhelmingly amazing! Much appreciation to Shadow Puppetz for doing Chicago proud - this was a world class joint for the books."

  • "Words will fail to capture what this weekend meant to me. Reuniting with old friends, finally meeting people I've known digitally for years, accepting myself as an artist and celebrating my people - this is why I chose this lifestyle and why I continue to choose it."

  • "You guys threw the best jam of our generation, period. You went above and beyond with the hospitality, so I can only say thanks - there aren't words for how grateful I am."

  • "Thank you, Shadow Puppetz, for taking such great care of us in your city. We were able to show our family what it means to be part of the culture. This means so much more to us than dance. We will be back next year!"

Registration

  • Tickets will be available for sale soon.

  • Online sign ups for the 1v1 and 3v3 popping battles will be available soon.

  • Tickets for workshops will be available soon.

schedule

Thursday, May 7

WORKSHOPS

Location: TBD

Rashaad Workshop: TBD

PURCHASE TICKETS (COMING SOON)

FRIDAY, May 8

PRELIMS

Location: The Sanctuary, Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S Ashland Ave

Doors Open: 5 PM

Prelims Start: 6 PM

SIGN UP TO BATTLE (COMING SOON)

SATURDAY, May 9

MAIN EVENT

Location: Epiphany Hall, Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S Ashland Ave

Doors Open: 3 PM

Main Event Start: 4 PM

PURCHASE TICKETS (COMING SOON)

AFTER PARTY

Location: Café, Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S Ashland Ave

After Party: 10 PM - 12 AM

SUNDAY, May 10

Location: Studio 5, Visceral Dance Center, 3121 N Rockwell St

Workshops: 2 - 6:15 PM

PURCHASE TICKETS (COMING SOON)

Donate

Out of the Shadows is the premier popping event in the Midwest, attracting over 200 dancers from across North America and beyond each year. The event serves as an authentic representation of Black American culture and its impact, facilitating cultural exchange across diverse regions. With an emphasis on elevating the Midwest and Chicago popping scene, Out of the Shadows provides a pivotal platform for local artists and acts as a gateway for the public to learn about the rich culture of American street dance styles. More than a mere spectacle, the event is an immersive experience where attendees become active participants surrounded by dance, music, and art. Help us continue to foster community through the dance we love and make popping accessible and sustainable in our city by donating.