Deeply Rooted Dance Theater

Deeply Rooted Dance Theater (DRDT) re-imagines and diversifies the aesthetics of contemporary dance by uniting modern, classical, American, and African-American traditions in dance and storytelling. Through its uncompromising pursuit of excellence, DRDT demonstrates the transformative power of art and beauty in Chicago and on the world stage. It cultivates a creative community dedicated to nurturing artists, advancing dance education, fostering collaboration, supporting human relationships, and sharing common values.

Co-founded by Creative Director Kevin Iega Jeff and Associate Artistic Director Gary Abbott, LaVerne Alaphaire Jeff, Diane Shober and Linda Spriggs, Deeply Rooted Dance Theater was established in 1995, and made its public debut in 1996. The company is now under the direction of former company member and Dance Education Director Nicole Clarke-Springer.

In Chicago, the company has performed at numerous renowned venues including the Auditorium Theater, the Shubert Theater, The Dance Center of Columbia College, The Harris Theater for Music and Dance, and the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts. DRDT collaborates with nationally renowned choreographers, across the spectrum of modern, ballet, and African dance, to reflect contemporary voices and spark a visceral experience and ignite an emotional response in diverse audiences worldwide.

Our fundraising goal of $10,000 is an effort for our company to make up some of our lost revenue due to COVID-19 cancellations.