Stacy is a dynamic dancer and choreographer who has carved a unique space in the world of Afro-Caribbean dance. Her brand, Jukeboxx Dance, embodies her infectious passion and dedication to sharing the joy and energy of these vibrant art forms. With a rich background in diverse dance styles and a commitment to both performance and teaching, Stacy has become a prominent figure, inspiring dancers worldwide through her unique approach to movement and rhythm.
Stacy’s journey began with a solid foundation in dance. For seven years, she was a dedicated member of the Muntu Dance Theatre, honing her skills before pursuing higher education. At Kenyon College in Ohio, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance and Sociology, broadening her understanding of movement and its cultural context. Seeking global perspectives, Stacy expanded her training at the University of Cape Town in South Africa under the mentorship of Maxwell Xolani Rani, absorbing diverse African dance traditions.
Returning to Chicago in 2009 marked a new chapter. Stacy joined Ayodele Drum and Dance, embarking on a transformative study trip to Bahia, Brazil, immersing herself in Afro-Brazilian rhythms and movements. A pivotal moment arrived in 2010 when former instructor Danny Diallo Hinds provided her first significant teaching opportunity at the National Cultural Foundation of Barbados Dance Program. Continuing her academic pursuits, Stacy obtained a Masters in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling from Columbia College Chicago in 2011, further enriching her understanding of the therapeutic power of dance.
Her connection with Muntu Dance Theatre deepened as she returned as a performer and choreographer. However, it was her deep-seated passion for reggae, dancehall, and afrobeat that propelled her to the forefront of Chicago’s dance scene. As a principal dancer and dance coordinator at the Shrine Chicago for seven years, Stacy curated a vibrant dance atmosphere, even producing successful events showcasing renowned dancers and crews, including Beyoncé’s own dancers. Her performance portfolio boasts collaborations with a diverse range of artists, including Les Twins, MC Lyte, Tarrus Riley, Elephant Man, and many more, demonstrating her versatility and appeal across genres.
A turning point came during the True Jamaican Dancehall Camp in Australia in 2015. There, Latonya Style, the creator of DanceJA School in Jamaica and a globally respected dancehall instructor, recognized Stacy’s exceptional talent. Latonya lauded Stacy as “the dancer with loads of passion, attitude, charisma, and style” and appointed her as the official Chicago representative of her Stylish Moves dancehall technique. Building on this momentum, Stacy officially launched her own dance brand, Jukeboxx, channeling her dedication to spreading happiness through African and Caribbean dance forms. This Jukebox Dance concept became her signature, blending diverse styles into an energetic and accessible format.
Prior to this recognition, Lady Sol Garcia had already provided Stacy’s first Afro-Dancehall teaching opportunity. Stacy refined her Afro-Dancehall Fusion classes, which have gained international traction. This unique style was showcased at DanceJA School in Jamaica in 2015, featured at the True Jamaican Dancehall Camp in Australia in 2016, and sold out masterclasses in Canada in 2017. She also presented this fusion at Chicago’s Choreographer’s Carnival in both 2016 and 2017. Adding to her impressive resume, Stacy collaborates closely with Pastor Charles Jenkins as his choreographer and dancer. In 2017, she was crowned Minnesota’s Dancehall Queen, competing against dancers from major cities worldwide. Her career trajectory continues its upward climb, with performances at major events like One Africa Music Festival, Lollapalooza, Afropunk, and The Steve Harvey Show.
Beyond her performance and choreography achievements, Stacy is deeply committed to community engagement. She utilizes her dance and counseling expertise to provide therapeutic and fitness outlets for children and adolescents through programs like After School Matters, the Chicago Park District, and Catholic schools. Always striving for growth, Stacy remains focused on developing her skills as an instructor, choreographer, and performer. Her driving force is evident in her simple yet profound answer to why she dances: “I know there is a God because I feel him when I dance.” Through Jukeboxx Dance, Stacy continues to share this profound feeling, inspiring countless individuals to discover joy and self-expression through movement.
