About The Company
Chicago Dance Crash was founded in 2002 by Illinois State University graduates Marissa Moritz, Charlie Cutler and Mark Hackman as a professional outlet for works the trio had created as students. Early productions utilized dance and acrobatics while forwarding a linear, conflict-driven story. The company’s first performances took place at the 60-seat, historical Mary-Arrchie Theater in Chicago’s Northeast neighborhood of Buena Park. Crash’s first production, titled The Mercutio Story, soon after extended to several performances across the city including the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre at Navy Pier and ultimately performing at “The Space” storefront theater in New York City. Adopting a company dancer formation in 2007, the organization began touring nationally and internationally in 2012.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director KC Bevis, Crash has emerged as the leading physical theater dance company in the Midwest, blending street dance, storytelling, tricking, acro, and contemporary dance. Known for its diverse repertoire, Crash’s performances feature choreography and freestyles by some of the nation’s top dance practitioners. With a growing number of company ensemble members possessing street dance expertise, the company began to naturally shift towards a greater incorporation of street dance disciplines (namely hip hop, breaking, popping and house) into its fusion repertoire.
A two-time recipient of the Black Theater Alliance Award for Choreography, Crash’s impact extends beyond the stage. Recognized as a trailblazer by the Chicago Reader and Newcity Stage, the company has also been lauded for creating “The Most Inventive Work in the U.S.” by Dance Magazine. The heart of Crash lies in its eight-member Performance Ensemble and dedicated Artistic Associates. With passion for preserving the authenticity of black street dance art forms and sharing their knowledge with the greater dance community, these artists serve as ambassadors of street dance throughout the Midwest.
Under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director KC Bevis, Crash has emerged as the leading street dance fusion company in the Midwest. Known for its diverse repertoire, Crash’s performances feature choreography and freestyles by some of the nation’s top dance practitioners and tours annually across the U.S.
Board of Directors