About the Nonprofit
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Nexus is a 501c3 nonprofit that employs, trains and connects underserved performing artists to the entertainment industry. For the past 7 years, Nexus Performing Arts has dedicated itself to the underserved arts communities in Chicago as a talent scout, connector, training ground, dance & theatre incubator and resource provider. Nexus identifies and addresses the inequities that many underserved artists encounter when breaking into the entertainment industry. Many untapped, talented artists come from low-income and poverty-stricken neighborhoods, particularly on the south and west sides of Chicago. These neighborhoods lack the resources, mentorship and opportunities that would not only enrich someone’s artistry but also create visibility around it.
Nexus recruits via social media outreach as well as attending local dance battles and competitions to access more talent. Breakdancing (also known as “breaking”) is a remarkable arts scene through which Nexus discovers incredible talent, many of whom evaded gang indoctrination. Breaking is a means of coping with gang violence and also viewed as a respected alternative to gang initiation and culture. Breakdance has been trending in the entertainment industry, exemplified through its world debut in the Paris Summer 2024 Olympics. Breakdance requires tremendous physical endurance and discipline that, under Nexus’ training, is often a gateway to broadening an artist’s performance repertoire. During this process, the artist strengthens their acting skills, dance genre experience and athleticism, thus making them more well-rounded, hirable and memorable.
Through continued support, Nexus provides:
Paid rehearsals and performances
Professional development and training
Industry connections and introductions
Mentorship
Industry-related resources such as: headshots, audition tapes, clothing, shoes, etc.
Safe spaces and incubators for artistry and creativity
Nexus employs local artists to:
Serve as community leaders
Perform and entertain during showcases and events
Educate and mentor
Perform in new work and professional, theatrical productions
