Kick off The Center’s 30th Anniversary Season with the electrifying artistry of South Chicago Dance Theatre (SCDT), one of Chicago’s most dynamic dance companies. In this milestone performance, SCDT presents a powerful retrospective celebrating the best of its repertory from the past nine years—featuring critically acclaimed works that blend classical and contemporary dance with global influences.

Under the visionary leadership of Founder and Executive Artistic Director Kia S. Smith, a Chicago-native, SCDT has grown into an international force, performing across Europe, Asia, and South America while commissioning new works from renowned choreographers and collaborating across genres—from opera and television to art museums and public schools. With its signature commitment to Choreographic Diplomacy™, the company creates work that bridges cultures, histories, and communities.

Described by The Berkshire Eagle as “a company to watch in 2025 and beyond” and praised by WBEZ as featuring a “breakout artist,” SCDT brings this legacy performance to Governors State University as the perfect launch to a landmark season.

 Act I

“On A Lark” Choreographer: Stephanie Martinez

“Soul Power” Choreographer: Monique Haley

“Under the Skin” Choreographer: Tsai Hsi Hung

Act II

“IN/WITHIN” Choreographer:  Kia S. Smith