Step Afrika!

Step Afrika! is a distinguished dance company dedicated to the African-American tradition of “stepping,” a percussive and highly spirited art form. It originated at historically Black college campuses and was developed by fraternities and sororities in the mid-20th century. The company, founded in 1994 by C. Brian Williams, has the distinction of being the first professional company committed to the stepping tradition.

Step Afrika! is renowned not just for its dance performances but also for its integration of songs, storytelling, humor, and audience participation, making each performance a unique and high-energy experience. The company blends traditional African dances with contemporary dance and art forms to create a cohesive and compelling artistic expression. Their performances are characterized by a blend of technique, agility, and pure energy, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Besides their performances, Step Afrika! is deeply committed to educational outreach. The company promotes stepping as an educational tool, focusing on values like teamwork, academic achievement, and cross-cultural understanding. They engage with tens of thousands of people annually through a 50-city tour of colleges and theaters and perform globally as an official U.S. Cultural Ambassador.

Step Afrika! has earned recognition and accolades for their contribution to arts education and innovation, and they have been inducted into the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA) Hall of Fame. The company’s work has been featured at significant events and venues, including President Barack Obama’s Black History Month Reception and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture, where they have the world’s first interactive stepping exhibit​