BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – IU Auditorium is thrilled present the highly anticipated performance of Step Afrika!, the world-renowned stepping company, to open the 2023–2024 season on Saturday, October 7. This dynamic and energetic troupe will bring their unique blend of dance, music, and tradition to Bloomington, promising an unforgettable evening.

Step Afrika! has garnered global acclaim for their innovative fusion of traditional African stepping and contemporary dance forms. With a rich history that dates back to the African American fraternities and sororities of the early 20th century, stepping has evolved into a powerful and expressive art form. Step Afrika! has taken this art to new heights, using intricate footwork, synchronized movements, and percussion to create a mesmerizing spectacle.

“We knew immediately after their amazing performance at one of our Open Air Venues in 2021 that we wanted to bring them back to perform on our Auditorium stage and so we are thrilled to have them open our 2023–2024 season,” said IU Auditorium Executive Director Maria Talbert. “This performance promises to be an electrifying celebration of rhythm, culture, and storytelling that is sure to captivate not only our audience the night of the show, but also over 1,000 middle-school students the day before at their matinee Auditorium Kids on Campus presentation.”

Founded in 1994, Step Afrika! has performed on stages across the United States and around the world, sharing their vibrant art form with diverse audiences. They have been featured on major television networks, including PBS and CNN, and have received critical acclaim for their innovative approach to stepping.

The performance on October 7 promises to be electrifying, with the talented company of Step Afrika! taking the audience on a journey through history, culture, and unity. From traditional African dances to contemporary hip-hop influences, the performance will showcase the evolution of stepping and its enduring impact on the arts.

Auditorium Kids on Campus

As part of the Auditorium Kids on Campus initiative, Step Afrika! will put on a matinee performance on Friday, October 6 for middle school students from Monroe County Community School Corporation, Washington Community Schools (Washington, Indiana), and Washington Catholic Schools (Washington, Indiana). This will mark the fifth annual daytime performance that IU Auditorium has presented as part of this K-12 initiative.

Post-Show Conversation with Step Afrika! Founder C. Brian Williams

Ticketholders can stay after the conclusion of the October 7 performance for a moderated conversation and Q&A with the founder of Step Afrika!, C. Brian Williams. Mr. Williams will discuss the program performed that evening as well as give some insights and history of Step Afrika! as a company.

Step Afrika! at IU Auditorium is presented in partnership Campus Tutoring Service, IU’s Women’s Philanthropy Leadership Council, IU’s Black Philanthopy Circle, and the IU Foundation. IU Auditorium’s 2023–2024 season is presented by Cook Medical, Curry Auto Center, The Herald Times, Upland Brewing Company, World Arts Inc., and B97.