The Story of JUBA
William Henry Lane was the first African American to earn the right to perform with white minstrel dancers in the 1830’s and 40s. Lane and an Irishman named John Diamond were promoted in a series of staged tap dance competitions of which Lane won all but one. He was given the appellation “Juba”- a Zulu word meaning King – by fellow dancers and went on to give command performances before the crowned heads of Europe where he was proclaimed the greatest dancer of all time by American and European critics alike.
Juba (also spelled giuba) is a river/valley/city in Somalia/Ethiopia/Sudan. It is also a word in Swahili meaning “dove”. Juba was also a dance created by slaves featuring hand clapping and foot stomping, referred to as “patting the juba”.
The JUBA! Award
William Henry Lane faced crushing prejudice in a country still divided by slavery and was still able to accomplish, to excel and to win. Lane’s life is a testament to the ability of people to overcome all obstacles, to excel despite adversity and to affect change through acts of personal courage and fortitude. This award acknowledges those who personify these characteristics and have made extraordinary contributions to the field as artists and patrons.
William Henry Lane
JUBA! Award & Awardees
Supporting performance, education and community
Honorees
2026
Bruce Bradley
Alfred Bruce Bradley is a tap dancer, visual artist, actor, vocalist, educator, philanthropist, community activist and is a native to Flint, MI.
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Buster Cooper
For 52 years, Mr. Cooper owned and operated The Buster Cooper School of Dance. He also founded the dance program at Hockaday School, and served as the head of the Hockaday dance department for over 30 years.
Jorge Perez
Jorge Pérez, Executive Director of Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater in residence at Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU), was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
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Mark Howard
Born in Yorkshire, England, and raised in Chicago, Howard began his dancing career at the age of eight at the Dennehy School of Irish Dance.
Samir Mayekar
Samir Mayekar is an accomplished leader with a track record of driving innovation and impact across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors.
Past Honorees
2025
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Jumaane Taylor
Jumaane Taylor, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project's Artistic Director, is a Chicago native that has been tap dancing since the age of 7 beginning at the Sammy Dyer School of the Theatre.
Nora Daley
Nora Daley is a member of Chicago's most famous political family.
Alderman Michelle Harris
Alderman Michelle Harris began her aldermanic career in 2006.
2024
2023
Michael Foster
Michael Foster is the Senior Sales Manager at The Whitehall Hotel in Chicago and received the JUBA! Award for Lifetime Service and Contributions to the Cultural Community.
Derick K. Grant
Derick K. Grant is a tap dancer and choreographer, who was an original company member of the musical Bring in 'Da Noise, Bring in 'Da Funk at both The Joseph Papp Public Theater/New York Shakespeare Festival and on Broadway.
Phil and Marsha Dowd
Phil and Marsha Dowd are inveterate doers of good. They seek opportunities where they can make a lasting impact, but never seek the limelight. Beyond their crucial financial support, they have provided Chicago Human Rhythm Project with most welcome counsel, insight and humor in a blend that defines stewardship. And CHRP is not alone. Phil and Marsha have supported countless organizations in and beyond Chicago and helped to make the city a better place.
2022
2019
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Paul Levy
Paul Levy has been a relentless yet quiet force for good in Chicago for decades. His involvement in civic and cultural causes includes longtime support of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, the Arts and Business Council of Chicago, and the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance and Collaboration to name a few.
Larry Kirwan
Larry Kirwan was leader of Black 47 for 25 years during which the political rock band played 2,500 gigs, released 16 albums and appeared on Leno, Letterman, O'Brien, Fallon and every major US TV show.
The Chicago Free For All Fund at The Chicago Community Trust
A donor directed fund whose mission is to make world class cultural experiences free – a hallmark of Chicago’s democratic culture.
2019 (cont)
Pamela Crutchfield
A passionate and active member of Chicago’s dance community. Co-founder of DanceWorks Chicago. Received the prestigious Ruth Page Award in 2009 and the Champion of Dance award from Dance USA. A tireless advocate for dancers who has commissioned countless works for dance companies in Chicago.
Dame Libby Komaiko
1949-2019. Founder and artistic director, performer and educator of the Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater and Center, whose innovative, unique and visionary career encompassed art, education and culture. Founder of the American Spanish Dance & Music Festival. Co-founder of the Ensemble Youth Company. The first American artist in history to be decorated with Spain’s highest honor, the “Lazo de Dama de Isabel la Católica” by Juan Carlos I, King of Spain.
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Kim Niewiedzial
Kim Niewiedzial has played a pivotal role in the revitalization of Trinity Irish Dance Company since 2015. From California to New York to Japan, she has traveled across the world to support TIDC’s mission, inspiring our artists, and elevating communities at every turn.
2018
Matie Ovalle
Co-founder of the Mexican Folk Dance Company of Chicago. Artistic director of the junior ensemble of the company since 1987. A proud recipient of the Viva Latina Award granted by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, who has helped to preserve Mexican culture in Chicago.
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Amaniyea Payne
Artistic director of the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago since 1987. The principal architect of the Company’s technical growth, Amaniyea expanded its repertory and national reputation with a commitment to authentic presentations of traditional African dance and a vision of developing and nurturing new work.
Hema Rajagopalan
A preeminent Bharata Natyam dancer, teacher and choreographer of international reputation. Founder and artistic director of Natya Dance Theatre, a touring company and school that specializes in Bharata Natyam. Her innovative work preserves Bharata Natyam while exploring new directions .
2017
2016
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Terry Mazany
President and chief executive officer for The ChicagoCommunity Trust. Selected as the sixth executive in the Trust’shundred year history in 2004. In 2011 also served as the interim chiefexecutive officer of Chicago Public Schools.
The Chicago Community Trust
A community foundation dedicated to improving the Chicago region through strategic grant making, civicengagement and inspiring philanthropy.
Michelle Dorrance
Founder and artistic director of Dorrance Dance, based in NYC. 2015 MacArthur Fellow, and recipient of the Alpert Award, Jacob’s Pillow Dance Award, Princess Grace Award, and a Bessie Award.
2016 (cont)
2015
Nicholas Young
Dancer, musician, choreographer, founding member of Dorrance Dance, and nine-year cast member with STOMP. Received a Bessie Award for sound design and composition. Co-founded the Institute for the Rhythmic Arts.
Maurice Hines
Star of stage, screen and television, performing solo and with his brother since the age of 10.
Tommy Tune
An American actor, dancer, singer, theatre director, producer, and choreographer. Over the course of his career, he has won 10 Tony Awards and the National Medal of Arts.
2016 (cont)
2015
2014
Charles Gardner & Patti Eylar
Long-time supporters and philanthropists of Chicago’s dance and theater companies, including CHRP, the Joffrey, Chicago Shakes, Steppenwolf, and the Auditorium Theatre. An ardent volunteer, Patti received the 2011 Ruth Page Award.
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The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
Supports creative people, effective institutions, and influential networks building a more just, verdant, and peaceful world.
2013
2012
Mayor Rahm Emanuel
Has served as the 55th mayor of the city of Chicago since 2011. Prior to becoming Mayor, served as the White House Chief of Staff to President Barack Obama and served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives representing Chicago’s 5th District.
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Heather Cornell
Extraordinary Contribution to the Field as Founder and Director of Manhattan Tap and as a choreographer, teacher, producer and director.
Susan and Ted Oppenheimer
Life-long philanthropists, educators, and activists, dedicating their time and resources to the betterment of Chicago’s educational system and performing arts, among other areas.
2011
Peggy Sutton
Director of Mayfair Academy of Fine Arts, founded in 1957 with the goal of developing dance as a cultural and physical asset for the children of the community.
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Idella Davis
Creative Director of Tap at the Sammy School of the Theatre, recognized as both a skillful artist and one Chicago’s most sought after tap instructors.
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Shelley Hoselton
Owner and director of Talent Forum, started in 1988, home of Footprints Tap Ensemble
Dianne Walker
Considered a pioneer in the resurgence of tap dancing. Her thirty-year career spans Broadway, television, film, and international dance concerts.
Sam Weber
Award-winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, master teacher and choreographer. The first tap dancer to receive a “Bessie” award, in recognition of outstanding creative achievement.
Gene Medler
Founder and director of the highly acclaimed North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble (NCYTE), founded in 1982, and director of the N.C. Rhythm Tap Festival.
Sam Weber
Award-winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, master teacher and choreographer. The first tap dancer to receive a “Bessie” award, in recognition of outstanding creative achievement.
Julie Cartier
Julie Cartier has invested her last 25 years to all things dance.
Randy Skinner
an American dancer, director and choreographer, primarily for the stage. He has been nominated four times for Tony Awards, three times for Drama Desk Awards, and four times for Outer Critics Circle Awards for choreography.
2010
2009
MCA Stage
Presenting cutting-edge dance, theater, and music from Chicago and around the world, pushing the boundaries of performance for over 20 years
Billy Elliot the Musical
Broadway production with music written by Elton John. Performed throughout mid-January 2011 at the Oriental Theatre in Chicago.
Lane Alexander
Co-founder and director of CHRP, leader in institutionalization of American tap dance, and director of Emmy-nominated JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance.
2009 (cont)
2008
Arny Granat
Co-founder of Jam Productions, largest independent promotion company in the US, and Jam Theatricals, Arny has produced the Rolling Stones, Madonna, Frank Sinatra, and countless others. Arny has received multiple Tony Awards for his numerous Broadway Productions.
Elaine Cohen
CHRP Honorary Founder. A pioneer in the field of live event marketing. Broke the mold and reshaped the entire global field. A passionate and generous patron of the arts who provided the cornerstone for CHRP’s American Rhythm Center and has supported every aspect of CHRP’s programs for more than two decades.
Joan Hill
Classically trained pianist, accompanist and partner of Leon Collins. Creator of the “Joan Hill Tap-a-scat-a-matic Bebop System of Tap Notation”.
2007
Muriel Foster
Director and President of Sammy Dyer School of the Theatre. Performed as a “Dyerette” with Sammy Davis, Jr., Nat King Cole, Benny Green, Ruth Brown, Roy Hamilton, Tito Puente, Billy Eckstine and other greats. Continuing to make her mark by providing arts education to the next generation.
Harold Cromer
Former member of internationally-known duo “Stump and Stumpy” with James Cross. Awarded “Living Treasure in American Dance Award” in 1996.
Skip Cunningham
Chicago-native dancer and singer. Featured on The Ed Sullivan Show, The Tonight Show, & The Merv Griffin Show, and in films The Cotton Club Tap.
2007 (cont)
2006
Jimmy Slyde
1927-2008. Rhythm tapper legend. Won National Heritage Fellowship, Guggenheim Fellowship, and Dance Magazine award. Featured in revue “Black & Blue”, and films Tap & The Cotton Club.
Blue Cross/ Blue Shield Illinois
As a leader of the Chicago corporate community, Blue Cross/Blue Shield Illinois has supported countless charitable organizations, not only engaged in health and wellness, but in arts, education, public safety and more. BC/BS has helped to build a vibrant corporate giving culture.
Lou Conte
Broadway veteran, choreographer and founder of Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and the Lou Conte Dance Studio.
2005
Arthur Duncan
Tap dancer known for regular performances on The Lawrence Welk Show. First African-American regular on variety TV program.
Bill Hood
Bill Hood and American Airlines have served the Chicago community through their philanthropic efforts and leadership. American Airlines has supported many cultural organizations through travel support for artists and donations to charitable events.
2004
Fayard Nicholas
1914–2006. Award-winning eldest brother of the Nicholas Brothers, began dancing at the Cotton Club and became a Broadway and film star.
Ernest “Brownie” Brown
1916-2009. Legendary vaudeville tap dancer, part of Cook & Brown duo and the Copasetics. Member of the Tap Dance Hall of Fame.
Jeni LeGon
Chicago native and one of first African American women tap soloists. Member of Hoofer’s Club & Tap Dance Hall of Fame. Performed with Bojangles Robinson, Fats Waller, and other greats.
2005
Bill Hood
Bill Hood and American Airlines have served the Chicago community through their philanthropic efforts and leadership. American Airlines has supported many cultural organizations through travel support for artists and donations to charitable events.
2003
Sammy Dyer
Founder of the Sammy Dyer School of the Theatre, noted tap choreographer and educator.
Tommy Sutton
Tap choreographer and founder of Mayfair Academy of Fine Arts in South Chicago. A pioneer in dance education and devoted to educating across the color barrier.
Jimmy Payne, Sr.
1917-2000. Tap & Afro-Carribean dance performer and teacher. Students included Bob Fosse, Lena Horne, & Gregory Hines.
2002
Leila Handelman
Member of The Saints, volunteers for the performing arts, along with her husband, Neil Handelman. Organized “Munchie Patrol” backstage for artists at performances for 14 years.
Glenn Baruck
Glenn Baruck and Leo’s Dancewear supported CHRP and the entire Chicago dance community for decades by making world class products, through sponsorships, donations of dancewear, and in-kind marketing support.
2001
Gregory Hines
1946-2003. Award-winning American actor, singer, dancer and choreographer, seen in films such as The Cotton Club, White Nights, Tap, and in musicals such as Eubie! and Jelly’s Last Jam.
Ann Barzel
1905-2007. American writer, critic and lecturer on dance, and once a dance critic for the Chicago Times. Known for her contributions to the Newberry Library.
Fawn Ring
Executive producer of cultural and entertainment programming at WTTW Chicago. Driving force behind many of WTTW’s most innovative arts programming initiatives.
2001 (cont)
2000
The Honorable Mr. & Mrs. Richard M. Daley
Mayor and Mrs. Daley have worked tirelessly to build innovative programs to address education, public safety, the arts and neighborhood development.
Danny Daniels
American tap dancer, choreographer & teacher. Featured in 1940’s Broadway musicals, winner of a Tony Award & Astaire Award for choreography, and composer of the Tap Dance Concerto.
1998
Cholly Atkins
American dancer and vaudeville performer, who later became noted as house choreographer for various artists on the Motown label.
Savion Glover
Born 1973. American actor, tap dancer and choreographer. Star of The Tap Dance Kid and Bring in ‘da Noise, Bring in ‘da Funk on Broadway, and Spike Lee’s film Bamboozled.
Dr. Prince Spencer
Member of Four Step Brothers, appearing in over 40 films, & toured Europe representing American dance. Awarded life achievement for breaking color barrier in 1985.
Richard Weinberg
CHRP honorary founder who has supported CHRP for three decades. The lead supporter of the Emmy nominated CHRP- PBS- ITVS documentary, JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance. A Broadway producer, philanthropist and community leader who has helped to make Chicago one of the cultural capitols of the world.
Bill Irwin
Award-winning American actor/clown/producer who is credited for contributions to the renaissance of clowning in the 1970’s.
Vic Anderson
Vic Anderson helped Target to develop a culture of giving and community support that continues to this day. Target provided pivotal support for CHRP’s summer festival of American tap, Rhythm World, scholarships for talented, deserving youths and ongoing support of performance and education programs.
1997
1996
1995
Fred Kelly
Award-winning hoofer who popularized Mambo and Cha-Cha, directed pioneering television shows, and one of America’s leading dance teachers.
Lloyd Storey & Frank Colvard
Two of the four famed dancers making up legendary tap act – The Sultans. Performed in Bill Robinson’s company and went on to perform with Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Redd Foxx, Peg Leg Bates and Tony Bennett among many others. Performed throughout their lives while also connecting new generations of dancers to the history of American tap by teaching master classes around the world.
Luke Cresswell
Co-creator and director of dance percussion act Stomp, percussionist and TV music writer.