Biography & impact: Founded by Ava V. Marie in 2023, Black Skrippa Brigade emerged as a response to discriminatory hiring practices in Chicago clubs. The collective focuses on paid performance opportunities, visibility for Black dancers and sex workers, and a network of mutual aid and community support. Through consistent bookings and creative programming, the Brigade helps diversify Chicago’s entertainment landscape while advocating for safer, inclusive environments.
Discography highlights: As a performance collective, Black Skrippa Brigade curates and presents a rotating roster of acts. Highlights include collaborative showcases such as Juke Joint, Freak Flag events, and PRIDE Pole Shows, each centered on high-energy dance, pole artistry, drag aesthetics, and community storytelling. The group’s catalog emphasizes experimental performance and the melding of dance with activism.
Upcoming tours & appearances: The Brigade maintains a busy calendar with 2025 dates like PRIDE Pole Show (June 28–29, 2025, Little Village location TBA), Bounce Music Dance Party & Market (September 13, 2025, Chicago), and Freak Flag productions. 2026 offerings include Power to the P-Pole: Rebellion in All Forms (January 18, 2026) at Backporch Stage and House of Blues Chicago, plus My Baddie Valentine (February 14, 2026) in a Chicago pop-up. Details are posted on the official site and member pages, with tickets through trusted local sellers.
Where to follow: For updates and behind-the-scenes, follow the Brigade’s official channels and member bios on the official site. Social profiles are linked in member bios, with social handles ready for fans to connect and support. Official links open in new tabs for a seamless browsing experience.