FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Back to Press Releases For additional information contact: Faith Morris, APR (773) 667-9158-office (312) 203-1459-cell faith@fgmorris.com www.danceafricachicago.com Heidi Pearson (312) 344-8852 hpearson@colum.edu DanceAfrica Chicago Celebrates 15th Anniversary with Dance Ensembles Extraordinaire Showcasing Everything from South African Breakdancing to Ugandan Flute Troupes DanceAfrica Chicago Returns to The Chicago Theatre October 21 – 23 CHICAGO, IL – August 5, 2005 Captivating Chicago audiences and igniting the stage for the 15th year, Columbia College Chicago proudly presents DanceAfrica Chicago 2005. This year's production is "SANKOFA." Three days of magnificent main stage performances, DanceAfrica Chicago 2005 will take place October 21, 22 and 23 at The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State Street. Ticket prices are $26, $34, $44, and $54. This annual celebration of African dance and music is one of Columbia College Chicago's leading public arts events. "SANKOFA," which comes from a West African Adinkra symbol that represents looking back to move forward, is a showcase of some of the best dance companies and musicians that have appeared at DanceAfrica Chicago Festivals during its 15-year history. The stage will become a living canvas of artistic expressions with each group creatively articulating their individual messages through sound and movement. Evolutionary African dance, music and traditions will be celebrated through animated prformances, intoxicating rhythms, and exquisite costumes with vibrant colors, patterns, and textures. Dr."Baba Chuck" Charles Davis is the co-founder and artistic director of DanceAfrica Chicago. He is recognized as one of the foremost and most accomplished choreographers and teachers in the techniques of traditional African dance, and is the recipient of many prestigious awards for his artistic and community work. The 2005 DanceAfrica Chicago featured ensembles are: NDERE TROUPE (Kampala, Uganda) Also known as "The Flute Troupe," Ndere will perform a medley of select signature pieces from a repertoire consisting of more than 40 authentic Ugandan dances and songs accompanied by various indigenous percussive, stringed and wind instruments. PROPHETS OF DA CITY (Cape Town, South Africa) Undisputedly, South Africa's foremost Hip Hop/Rap/Breakdancing act, P.O.C. blends African sounds and rhythms, funky beats and authentic South African accents. RENNIE HARRIS PUREMOVEMENT(Philadelphia, PA) RHPM's work encompasses rich and diverse African-American traditions of the past while simultaneously presenting the voice of a new generation, while encouraging young dancers to share their enthusiasm for hip-hop dance theatre. AFRICAN AMERICAN DANCE ENSEMBLE(Durham, NC) AADE celebrates traditional African culture, aesthetics and values through their dramatic staging, exciting rhythms, masterful choreography and colorful costumes. This ensemble creates an artistic experience difficult to forget. MUNTU DANCE THEATRE(Chicago, IL) In the Bantu language, "muntu" means "the essence of humanity." It's what the Company seeks to express in their work and to touch in their audiences. Muntu creates an atmosphere of communal participation, encouraging and inspiring audiences to join in the celebration! DEEPLY ROOTED DANCE THEATER(Chicago, IL) Deeply Rooted Dance Theater presents work that springs from an African-American tradition of dance and music to reveal inspiring and innovative expressions of contemporary life. The company's performances not only entertain but also ignite the emotions of audience of all ages and cultural backgrounds. Tickets are available by phoning Ticketmaster at (312) 902-1500, online at www.Ticketmaster.com, or in person at The Chicago Theatre box office or any Ticketmaster Ticket Center. Discounts for groups of 10 or more are available by calling the DanceAfrica Chicago office at (312) 344-7070. Special rates are available to all students with current student identification. DanceAfrica Chicago is the largest festival of African and African-American arts and culture in North America. Created by Columbia College Chicago and now entering its 15th year, DanceAfrica Chicago continues to uphold its single mission: To use the language of music and dance to expand the understanding and influence of African heritage on world cultures through education and the performing arts.