WHO WE ARE

Leading the way for the cultural resurgence of the Funk dance scene since 2019.

Shadow Puppetz is a Chicago-based funk styles dance crew. Since 2019, we’ve led efforts to revitalize dance forms such as popping, robot, animation, locking, waving, and tutting in Chicago and the Midwest. We create spaces where dancers can hone their craft, exchange knowledge, and engage with the cultural lineage they represent.

Rooted in Black American culture, funk dance styles have influenced mainstream culture and media, yet their cultural significance often goes unrecognized. We’re are dedicated to honoring the legacy of these styles and amplifying the voices of dancers who carry them forward. By providing accessible educational opportunities, authentic performances, and community events, we create spaces for meaningful artistic expression and connection that enrich the cultural landscape of Chicago and the Midwest.

Learn more about our history and crew members.

  • OUR MISSION

    We believe in the power of funk dance styles as unique forms of self-expression that build community, nurture personal growth, and facilitate cultural exchange.

  • OUR VISION

    We envision a thriving, sustainable ecosystem in Chicago and the Midwest where funk dance artists are celebrated as valued contributors to arts and culture, with equitable access to resources and opportunities for their personal and professional growth.

OUR VALUES

  • Community is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in the power of funk dance styles to unite people through a shared passion, creating a sense of belonging and building meaningful connections. We strive to create spaces where dancers can collaborate, learn, and grow together, ensuring that everyone feels valued, supported, and seen.

  • We celebrate the diverse representations of funk dance styles. While the history and foundation of these dance forms are important, we recognize that each dancer brings a unique expression to them. Our commitment to authenticity enriches our community and strengthen the integrity of our work, ensuring that every dancer's individuality is valued and respected.

  • We prioritize a service mindset rooted in hospitality and a commitment to giving back to the funk dance communities that have enriched our lives. Through our efforts, we aim to create opportunities for individuals to discover their sense of belonging, self-expression, and purpose in these styles, just as we have. We take great pride in crafting meaningful, high-quality, and memorable experiences through our educational programs and community events.

  • We recognize and celebrate the power of funk dance styles to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. By acknowledging the historical challenges these dance forms have faced, we’re committed to fostering a safe, inclusive environment that values all voices and experiences. We believe that varied expressions of these styles enrich our collective experience and drive the evolution of funk dance.

  • We’re committed to maintaining a standard of excellence in everything we do. Our pursuit of excellence drives us to continuously grow and innovate, setting the standard for creativity and professionalism in the dance industry. By delivering high-quality experiences and exceptional programming, we aim to inspire others and elevate the impact of funk dance styles.

Donate

By donating to Shadow Puppetz, you help us sustain and uplift funk dance communities in Chicago and the Midwest. Contributions go toward compensating artists and covering essential costs for our cultural events and educational programs.

We’re responsible and transparent with our funds. Learn more about how your support fuels our work.