Nō Studios’s Dance Fest 2025 Brings World-Class Talent to Milwaukee for a Day of Celebration and Performance

*info provided by Allison Bartella | NO Studios

The fourth annual celebration will be headlined by Alvin Ailey II and bring together dance companies throughout the midwest to celebrate the region’s rich contribution to the arts 

Nō Studios, a center for the creative arts and activism in downtown Milwaukee, is proud to announce the return of Dance Fest on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Now in its fourth year, Dance Fest continues to grow, bringing together a curated lineup of performances from Water Street Dance Milwaukee, Madison Ballet, and more. Alvin Ailey’s Ailey II will headline the festival, marking a significant milestone in Dance Fest’s evolution. This year’s annual festival will showcase a variety of genres, including ballet, salsa, African-inspired, Irish stepdance, and contemporary.  

Nō Studios was founded by Milwaukee native and Oscar winning screenwriter John Ridley, whose family has long been a part of the fabric of Milwaukee arts and politics, working to amplify underrepresented voices, and elevate the city as a vibrant arts destination. Built as a collaborative, social community for artists and activists, Nō Studios hosts screenings and panel discussions, invests in local artists through gallery showings and live performances, and produces original television programs, including Creating Milwaukee, mini-documentary series focusing on Milwaukee creatives across various disciplines.

“We’re thrilled to return for another year of Dance Fest,” said John Ridley, the founder of Nō Studios who has worked to elevate Milwaukee’s profile as a vibrant arts destination. “Bringing these exceptional companies together in Milwaukee—a city that thrives on creativity and collaboration—perfectly reflects the values of this festival. We are excited to gather these visionary dance groups and celebrate the diverse cultures and talents that define dance.” 

This year’s Dance Fest will feature the return of Morgan Williams, founder of Water Street Dance Milwaukee, as curator of the event. “This festival is a powerful platform for showcasing the immense talent of the Midwest’s dance community,” said Williams. “Each year, Dance Fest fosters meaningful connection between dancers and audiences, and I’m thrilled to play a part in shaping this celebration of artistry and culture.” 

Danni Gee, Director of Programming for New York City’s The Joyce Theater, one of the few theaters in the world created specifically for dance, will emcee the evening performance. “It’s an honor to return to Dance Fest,” said Gee. “The festival continues to grow in scope and impact, showcasing an extraordinary range of talent from Milwaukee and beyond. Nō Studios’ commitment to celebrating dance is truly inspiring.”

Dance Fest 2025 will feature performances by: 

  • Ailey II: The next generation of dance, Alvin Ailey’s junior company is renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the next generation with the creative vision of emerging choreographers.

  • Water Street Dance Milwaukee: Dedicated to exploring diversity within their art, artists, and audiences, the company is renowned for their athletic, innovative, and entertaining performances. They were named to Dance Magazine's “25 to Watch” list in 2024.

  • Madison Ballet: Wisconsin’s second-largest dance organization is under the direction of Ja’ Malik and is focused on building a better community through art.

Nō Studios looks forward to welcoming more participating companies throughout the Midwest as their program continues to grow.

Dance Fest will take place at the Marcus Performing Arts Center’s outdoor Peck Pavilion, along the Milwaukee River. The family-friendly festival will also include youth dance performances, a community centric daytime program, live music, local food vendors, and a chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at the technical rehearsal. 

“We are delighted to host Dance Fest for the second year in a row,” said Kevin Giglinto, President & CEO of the Marcus Performing Arts Center. “Like Nō Studios, we’re dedicated to sharing high-quality arts and cultural programming with our community, and are honored to provide a stage for these extraordinary dance companies.” 

Performances and programming will take place Saturday, August 2, with tickets priced at $20-$30. Tickets will go on sale [INSERT DATE] at nostudios.com/dance-fest-2025.

Dance Fest is sponsored by the Marcus Performing Arts Center, The Joyce Theater, and media partner WISN 12 News.



Crème De La Style Podcast | Premier Event, Friday, February 25th, 2025 at 9:00am

Crème De La Style: A Fashion Podcast— where we talk fashion, culture, and the creative game from the inside out

In this exclusive inaugural episode of Crème De La Style: A Fashion Podcast, host Carlos Vergara flips the script. Instead of the standard interview format, three dynamic voices from his journey take the lead to uncover what makes him the expert in all things fashion.

/Carlos M. Vergara Jr

Snap Shot Press Release: To The Unseen Black Queen, Your Reflection Is My Protection| Destinny Fletcher Gives You, "Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi"

Lying, thinking last night

How to find my soul a home/Where water is not thirsty

And bread loaf is not stone/I came up with one thing

And I don’t believe I’m wrong

That nobody/ But nobody 

Can make it out here alone

Alone/All Alone

Nobody but nobody can make it out here alone

-Alone By: MAYA ANGELOU 

Why is the word alone the name tag for all African-American women throughout reality and the big screen? Why is their loaded baggage involuntarily assigned to us with no boarding number and vacation villa to follow? Whether you’re a woman living in a 1st, 2nd or 3rd world country, no vast landscape can terminate the unspoken rule given to any black woman at birth:

You have no chance to make mistakes, be vulnerable or lean on others;

you can only be superwoman!

Every struggle each of us face are not duplicated but our responses are often replicated. It’s a natural reaction to create solutions and make sweet lemonade out of every lemon thrown at you. Millions pay the cost of internal self-medicating, silencing themselves and bearing the weight of others’ problems to distract from their personal turmoil. There are only a handful who trade in those costs for unknown feedback, reliving emotional rollercoasters, and one H-E-double hockey sticks of a journey. Author and poet, Destinny Fletcher is the face of that handful.

Bold and inspirational author, Destinny Fletcher also known as “Deolinda Abstrac” has constructed such a captivating voice through artistic expression for over a decade. From the time she could walk, Fletcher was charismatic, strong and an active community member. Her mother enrolled her into over seven Milwaukee recreational programs such as ballet, african-dancing, culinary and poetry. Destinny was not intimidated; rather she consistently embraced new experiences with her extroverted and energetic personality. Unfortunately, having a supportive and art-centered family as well as a dynamic social life did not exempt her from the inevitable and traumatic aftermath of being an African-American woman. In exchange for walking into unknown responses, marking her life from ink to paper, and going through all the motions, she has amplified her voice to a new level.

December 17th, 2024, the latest self-published, unfeigned and raw Deolinda Abstrac release of Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi raised the ears and heartstrings of many readers. It is an eight year vulnerable  recollection of trauma, observations, and monumental snapshots. The candid and resilient read emphasizes the contradicting relationship between social media and mental health. The unapologetic memes, polished lifestyles, and creative aesthetics play the role of distracting the narrator from the emotional, mental and physical challenges she describes throughout the adventurous read. Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi bravely invites those who wear masks they never take off, disguising the melancholy frenzy and corridor of unexplainable emotions only to discover they are not an outlier. 

Clawed walls, piercing cells, and electronic lockdown systems are not the only forms of imprisonment. Fletcher carves a raw perspective by vividly placing a single mother living in Milwaukee, WI while being a healthcare worker and studying public speaking at the forefront of the contemporary read. The headstrong and courageous mother admits feeling stripped of freedom. Imprisonment is the center of her life and has always been; as it consistently creates a web affecting her emotional, physical, and mental capacities. The second chapter, The Beckoning, cultivates such an eerie yet liberating framework of how harsh and careless the world views and treats the physical bodies of black people; specifically black women. It’s often exploited and oversexualized but our bodies function as a place of nurture, legacy, and art even though many black women use none of these functions to uplift and care for themselves. The powerful author shares the past and present behavior that devalues and harms our lives on the daily but quickly follows with words of encouragement to celebrate, emphasize and embody the royal temple, also known as a black woman’s body. She’s essentially challenging all African-American women to end the routine of loading all unrealistic expectations, increased work quantity, and unaddressed violations before we step into the world and begin playing our role. 

Accessorizing ourselves with additional job titles whether in career fields or personal relationships has never filled the enormous void every black woman has felt for at least a year of their life; unseen. No matter how many hats we wear or how different they are from one another; Destinny graphically illustrated not only the feeling but perseverance of not being seen. 

Page 61 of the text reads:

No one asked me if I am okay

Or if I remember what day it is

Or am I going through a crisis 

Or have I eaten today

Or if my mental state is kosher

Or is my soul safe

No one has asked me and I am starting to think that the world does

not care for such little insight.

The internal war within ourselves to ger out of that queen sized bed, one of the few places where Black Queen feels in reach. For others, your family and friends makes you feel seen but it’s questioned once you enter the elevator at work; which is why overachiever, problem-solver, and team player has become your middle names. The bold inspirationalist not only releases this weight in her book but sat down with me to explain a brilliant revelation:

“We are the performers. The family that’s heavily involved in the arts and rescues everyone else from their downfalls; but in the midst of that we are creating our own without even realizing it”.

-Community Health Advocate/Author/Art Educator Destinny Fletcher

It’s why striving to be perfect in our adolescence and adulthood is the goal because it’ll mask the pain, insecurities, and disappointment with the feeling of finally being seen. But what does being seen mean if you’re fading away on the other side of the mirror?

The conclusion that experiencing freedom and sense of belonging can be apart of our life stories clicks when a black woman does what she already knows; take matters into her own hands. Throughout Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi, writing gave Destinny power and surge. From her admirable public speaking homework to tackling every health issue for her community, flashes of confidence, acceptance and strength exuded through the pages of the book. It was as if Deolinda Abstrac was staring at you asking, “Do you feel this way too?”. 

The devastation of sexual harassment, suppressing sexuality, and becoming a creative working on fumes planted the seed of Chapter 29: Day 12. For example, the text reads:

I forgot who I was

Correction: Who I am?

Maybe they haven’t asked because I haven’t left my room in four days

Disconnecting from the world is one of the top defense mechanisms used by African-American women but why? The jaw-dropping read delicately explains how the art of disconnection is subconsciously taught by our families. By age twelve to fourteen, laundry, knowing our way around the kitchen, working for dollars, and nurturing others has become second nature. While our parents and grandparents assume they’re teaching independence, isolation and disconnection are hiding in plain sight, finding easier pathways into the minds of children. This is why failures are often hidden from family members because it seems since childhood; there was rarely positive reinforcement and feedback. As young girls, it’s easy to mimic what fills your eyes. Some parents utilized extended time in the restroom for breaks away from the world, while others gained dependence on substance abuse or dating frequently. Required to stand on your own and execute your life plan to a tee, weakens a black woman’s ability to admit she’s not okay and to ask for help. However; this is the conversation replacing in our minds: 

I’m not crazy.

I swear I cannot ask my parents for help. 

I’m an adult in my 20s, so I can control myself and I can take care of SELF. 

Being independent shouldn’t erase the natural law; we all fall at least once in our lives and should be guided by those who love and support us the most. Too much pride is carried inside blocking anybody from knowing and helping black women when the feeling of being lost and hitting their lowest point takes a turn. As a result, the conversation about faith and good people comes into play. “Why do bad things happen to good people? Does God love me?” are the first two questions asked. 

Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi is more than a shocking page-turner. In my opinion, it was a statement to all African-American women from Destinny saying, “Girl, me too! I see you and have the same struggles as you”. I’m not the only one that was mesmerized and captivated by this new read. Reporter, journalist, and photographer Princess Safiyah Byars described Fletcher’s latest masterpiece as such: “In a time where everything seems polished to perfection, Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi stands out as a raw, and unfiltered masterpiece. A heartfelt sharing of personal and communal emotional trauma that is as moving as it is relatable. With the rhythm of a journal and the grace of poetry, Destinny invites us through scenes, each one stepped in vulnerability, truth, and unyielding resolve to confront life’s shadows. This work delves into the depths of depression, the dangers of overworking, and the nuanced struggles of sexual freedom– offering a lens into the intricate, and often overlooked mental health battles of black women. Destinny’s voice is both intimate and universal capturing pain, triumph, and humanity. This book is more than a compilation of stories; it is a testament to resilience, a tribute to the courage it takes to own one’s narrative, and a call to embrace vulnerability as a source of strength. There is an unflinching honesty here, inviting readers to sit with the discomfort and beauty of it all. For anyone who has ever felt the weight of societal expectations, the loneliness of mental health struggles or the complexities of self-discovery, this book will resonate deeply”. -Princess Safiyah Byars

To every black woman gracing the earth, you are not crazy, overly aggressive, or weak. We all experience a rollercoaster of unexplainable emotions but rarely speak about them until our breaking points. There’s a stigma that mental health issues only looks one way or experienced only if someone’s life is in shambles. What about the honor roll straight A student who just got a full-ride to college? Or the woman whose packing poetry clubs every week giving her peers hope and laughter? Destinny wrote such a compelling yet authentic story that every black women can identify with by the first five minutes of reading. I appreciate how she added the element of individuality into the book as she inserted pictures from early life to now, loose-leaf poetry clippings, and her own story throughout the read. She shared the honest journey of her sexuality with both men and women, being a survivor of sexual harassment, and the impact the Coronavirus pandemic had on her own mental health as motivating puzzle pieces to Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi. An S.O.S letter to all black women with no sugarcoating involved, educating them that they are not alone. It’s a moment where no competition or judgement should be near, rather a state of sisterhood and opportunity for the difficult conversations we don’t even have with ourselves. This highly anticipated, surreal and strong reawakening to the name Destinny Fletcher was well worth the wait. 

Grab this read so that mental health is no longer taboo to you and to strengthen your journey of finding yourself. Purchase the exciting adventure on Destinny Fletcher’s website at http://dabstrac.com/  Follow Destinny on instagram and facebook @dabstrainc

She sees you! 

Desriana Gilbert/ Entertainment & Social Journalist for CW

THE WRITE UP | W/ @STYLELIKESKUB


CopyWrite Magazine is a household name throughout the city of Milwaukee; specifically the Bronzeville neighborhood. We are known for our flavor wordplay, graphics, and timeless issues. However; it is time for the physical building {CopyWrite Creative Shop + Studio} to receive the same attention and identity as the magazine platform. There are a plethora of unique, eccentric, fun, and jam-packed events thrown in the space month in and month out but it’s not documented as much as it could be. Here are " Testimonials" from our community members and their experiences with /CW.

"In My Home" Series | By Carlos M. Vergara Jr.

Carlos M. Vergara Jr.—more than a fashion enthusiast, more than a creative director, more than just style. A creator who moves with intention, deeply rooted in his culture, community, and self. Every vision I bring to life is a reflection of the creativity that runs through me, a tribute to the stories, people, and experiences that shape who I am.

“With that, I introduce In My Home—a series that invites you into my world, where inspiration meets intimacy, and where every frame tells a story of influence, identity, and expression.”

Milwaukee Founding Father of Hip Hop BLAX Unveils Limited Edition Vinyl Album “BLAXPLOITATION”

Lyric assassins, cultural shapeshifters, and uncensored canvases have always existed in our barbershops, recreational centers, corner stores, churches, and neighborhoods. The masked hindrance that keeps thousands of conscious, bold, and talented people arm’s length from grasping stardom is exploitation. Record label executives, industry moguls, and well-known managers hide that they’re wolves in sheep’s clothing with their suave vocabulary, empty promises, and glamorized walls of success. This is how the exploitation of artistry, power, and the humanization of legal connections have become embedded into the moving tracks of the music industry. Countless artists become easily blinded by the mortal feeling of being a god, electrifying stages, dead presidents in their bank accounts, and the lens of cameras. Only a portion of superstars master the essence of obtaining the same reflection in the mirror they had before their signature was signed on the dotted line. The realm of their morals, values, vision, and connection to self is their number one priority and remains intact throughout their entire career. Ladies and gentlemen did you know we have one of the rare and mighty in our backyard? Adebisi Agoro also known as BLAX doesn’t just fit this description but he reps it wholeheartedly.

From being signed to New York record label Social MisFits/New Records to being crowned the title of Best Rap/Hip Hop Artist of 2018 by Wisconsin Area Music Industry Awards Council; living large and being known as the man when it came to the eccentric and homegrown sound was not taboo to BLAX. He had a front-row seat to every angle of the industry; from millions of faces in the crowd going toe to toe with him after each word of his songs, to tasting black luxury as a lifestyle, and the angelic connection his mind and voice had when creating music. Ironically, BLAX viewed himself as an oxymoron in the business; it wasn’t about the dollar bills, power from the snap of a finger or temptations of that world. His morals and view of success were far from what media and other hip hop artists would describe it. As a freshman in high school losing rap battles did nothing but spark the hunger and love the superstar had for his music. It was never something he would walk away from.

“Success is being happy with yourself; this is why you should be SELF-MADE.”-BLAX

Life/death, peace /disturbance, motivation/tough love, this is what you experience when listening to the multidimensional hip hop artist. There was never any need to fake or manipulate his artistry because BLAX has always put the raw and untamed experiences of his real life in his craft. For example, losing those who owned his heart, his grandmother and son between the years of 2013-2018 took a brutal toll on the emcee but footprints of his feelings could easily be found in his album Angeline where he began processing grief and was on a mission to seek truth. Each album is a present testament of the man BLAX is and how far his journey will go. His catalog is not just for the conscious and woke, but for any and everybody who values truth, growth, and those real conversations that make you question yourself.

“All artists have the responsibility to make you think. It’s not always about bubblegum ish all the time.”

With the legend coming off of the highly anticipated summer 2024 tour: The Dreamweaverz Tour w/ RMLLW2LLZ; he felt it was time to gift some new music to the streets.

On January 28th, 2025, the midwest cultural shapeshifter, BLAX’s dream came true as he released his album BLAXPLOITATION as his first ever vinyl album. For nearly twenty years the artist has always wanted to create such a timeless, tangible and personal piece of art to his supporters and especially for himself. Just as any musician, both the beautiful and heart wrenching side of the entertainment industry has took hold of his eyes. BLAX wanted to make it clear with his latest album that nobody can hold him back, take advantage of him, outsmart him or carry him as a man. He’s his own person, sketchpad, producer, songwriter, and moral compass. These ten tracks give a deeper scope of BLAX- the grown man whose accepted all things life comes with but also his raw emotions to that. The society we live in today consumes such a colossal digital footprint where music, visuals, and even artists are hot today and forgot about tomorrow. In a world of streams, single-radio, and less touring opportunities, it’s become difficult for a large body of work to be believed in and pushed by not only record labels but independent artists as well. BLAX set out to provide tangible connection and conversation between his fanbase and himself with this masterpiece.

“BLAXPLOITATION” will uncontrollably rebirth the most authentic and emotionally intelligent version of you. From the tracks, Interpretation of Dreams, Ballerina and Intelligent Beings you won’t skip a second. It’s a musical sonnet of the ups and downs life and being an artist has to offer. Sugarcoating and empty promises were not the ingredients used when BLAX was cooking up this album. He is a true creative who knows to never turn off the genius inside him! It is because of his versatile lyricism, out of the ordinary visuals and consistent artistry that he is considered one of the founding fathers of the Mikwaukee and Racine Rap/Hip Hop landscape. He’s created another space where the album will be analyzed and broken down on his new podcast, The Blaxploitation Podcast. Go tune in here: Don’t miss your chance to own one of the one hundred copies BLAX has released for the album; making BLAXPLOITATION limited edition.

Owning the vinyl is not enough and you want to experience an intimate and immersive night with BLAX himself to breath and feel every emotion of the album? Join the emcee at The Wiggle Room March 7th, 2025 at 2988 S. Kinnickinnic Ave Bayview, WI for BLAX’s album listening party dedicated to BLAXPLOITATION. You can not only follow the raw and lively man of the hour @the_god_degree on all social media platforms

Comment down below what question you think this album will make you feel? Do you think BLAX is paving the way for vinyl albums to make a huge comeback in the music industry?

Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW

Mental Health Meets Hip Hop Musical Showcase 2025: Where The Most & Least Discussed Topics Become The Conversation

After a night of being celebrated and uplifted, I pulled five hip-hop artists to the side and asked “What does Hip-Hop mean to you?”. The following were their responses:


“I’m seen.”

“I’m not alone.”

“It’s my escape from the world.”

“The justification to ignite the fire inside me”

“Being different is completely fine”

“Hip-hop is an exhibit of who I am and where I come from.”

Misconceptions about this safe haven have been deeply rooted in the world’s mind (A.K.A Media, TV, and School Curriculum). Throughout the 80s Hip-hop became the scapegoat for the crack epidemic, and in the 90s it was to blame for the dark era of the L.A. riots. Around the early 2000s, the genre was put yet under another microscope. The origin story and cultural autopsy became classified as innovative and positive. A transformation was occurring where Hip-hop went from being known as the sister of violence, gang affiliation, and segregation to becoming the poster child for black joy and artistic expression. It became widely recognized as more than late-night TV with Arsenio Hall but also a lifestyle and form of communication to the masses. 

  Photography Accredited to Mikala Woodfork

Time not only changed how parents, children, and politicians perceived Hip-hop but also the lyricism and visual graphics that artists were creating. From the time Bow Wow was rocking his two pigtails up until he became an adult, the topics glorified and pushed in songs remained stagnant. Money, women, drugs, and the fast life were constantly being rapped about like a broken record player. As new Hip-hop artists emerged into the industry, the game began to change slowly but surely. Relatability and life struggles were becoming trending topics thanks to artists such as DMX, Eminem, Mac Miller, Rod Wave, and NBA Youngboy; making Hip-hop become the face for the least discussed topic in America: Mental Health. What better way to educate and entertain by using the most sought-after music to strengthen the identity and awareness of resources and intellectual knowledge regarding mental health?

Saturday, January 25th, 2025 a musical showcase from 6 pm to 9 pm was presented by the Mental Health Meets Hip-Hop organization at the Harold Washington Cultural Center located in Chicago, IL. Heavy hitters such as Dlow Bop King, Big Mouf Bo, and Korporate rocked the crowd with their performances while informational and vital panels were also in the spotlight. The selection of speakers was not only inclusive by showing all ages, backgrounds, and missions of individuals apart of the black community. Sixth grader, Kylee Paul brought the city of Chicago into her world as she dove into the severity of communication between parents and youngins; and the struggles happening to our future leaders (the kiddos). Some of the problems she spoke about were bullying, comparison to social media, and peer pressure. The conversation did not stop there. The relationship between diet, a surplus of fast food restaurants, lack of food markets, and mental health was emphasized by mental health professional Zacharyiah Austin. Everyone from the front of the stage to the back of the theatre was glued to the panels. Uncomfortable and hard testimonies as well as knowledge was being served on a plate and ready to be presented to over 200 attendees. Hosts, Big Twon and 2Can added a unique element to the show as they asked the audience questions and created dialogue between the artists, panelists, and community.

The night provided the city with the perfect balance of a family-friendly turn-up with intentional, tough, and essential conversations surrounding mental health. The, what, who, why, where, and how were clearly explained to the crowd as some of the Chi’s favorite artists shared their connection to the topic at hand. The message of the night was that mental health should not be taboo to anyone, especially in the minority communities where it's prominent. Much research, access to resources, and common knowledge based on mental health should be shared ten times more than is currently. 

Before the doors opened to the star-studded and jumpin’ performances, the lobby had its own party going on. Over ten vendors filled the building, reeling in much-needed attention to the merchandise, resources, and organizations. The entire first level was filled with a variety of vendors from domestic violence help organizations, activities such as journaling and group therapy, and also cupcakes that will make you feel like every day is your birthday. Access to free therapy sessions open to 8 years old and up, job openings for teens and young adults who feel lost, and music programs were also plastered throughout the lobby for the city to soak in and want to learn more about mental health in their free time. It should be a part of their lifestyle and not just a discussion introduced to them every few months through the news, after-school programs, and conferences.

The showcase was far from your average mental health seminar. I applaud Mental Health Meets Hip Hop for presenting a platform to over twenty educated and experienced artists, activists, and professionals to grace the stage with life lessons, laughs, and silent moments that made the crowd think. Hence why it was more than only one panel; specifically three panels, where advice, testimonies, and community was given from Dr.Amanda Long, Sam Sparks, Dr. Ozell Adams, and Reginald Carter. Speech after speech there were many tokens of advice and conversation that resonated with me, a young twenty-two-year-old black woman. 

“Stop waiting for the world to tell you who you are and sit down with your thoughts.”

“Social media is smoke and mirrors; stop letting it control your brain.”

“Know who you are as a woman and be authentically you.”

“Take capture of your thoughts.”

“There’s life and death inside your tongue. Be intentional with your words always!

Chicago artists and their footwork weren’t the only focus throughout the night. The Mental Health Meets Hip Hop organization enhanced another theme during the night; giving people their flowers while they can still smell them. There were countless awards given out throughout the night making the audience feel as if we were at the NAACP awards, but two awards stood out to me the most. Rapper, actress, and community activist, Big Mouf Bo was presented an award of acknowledgment by her students. Global director of the Harold Washington Cultural Center, Jemelia Tillman was also gifted an award of leadership for helping MHMHH make their showcases and other events come to life. The city of Chicago has an army of intellects, entertainers, and institutions whose making it their mission to not only inspire others but bring real change to the world; starting with Chicago.

Mental Health Meets Hip Hop is not the new kid on the block. This relationship between local artists and mental health professionals has had over six years of understanding, growing, and valuing one another. Founder, Tatiana Lane, brought both of her worlds together from being a hip-hop artist and MH professional herself, together to curate a unique space. Her vision has turned into reality as the MHMHH values innovation, inclusivity, culture, community, and empowerment. They are constantly reconstructing the vision of mental illness by integrating talented artists and clinical awareness as well as resources into the community. For over five years, curricular development, consultation services, emotional and life coaching, as well as mindfulness workshops has been provided and utilized in maximum effect by both the organization and community members. Are you someone who wants to understand better their mental health? Do you want to be able to understand both the beginning and end of mental illness? Click here to see what Mental Health Meets Hip Hop can offer you: https://mentalhealthmeetshiphop.com/.

Want a closer look into the jam-packed musical showcase?

Follow MHMHH @mentalhealthmeetshiphop

Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW

43RD+VLIET EVENT SERIES LAUNCHES ACROSS FROM HISTORIC PARK

Denizen MKE, Washington Park Media Center, JazzyRae’ Jewels and Accessories, and Artists Working in Education (AWE) are thrilled to present 43rd+Vliet, a free neighborhood event series in our creative small businesses near Milwaukee’s Washington Park on the Near West Side. Starting this

Friday, January 31 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and continuing monthly on select Fridays from February to June 2025, our indoor and outdoor spaces will transform into lively artistic hubs showcasing performances, installations, media-making, refreshments and activities with local creatives. These events celebrate the neighborhood’s cultural diversity while fostering vibrant street life along Vliet Street.

To honor Lunar New Year this Friday night:

  • Live music nights are back at Denizen MKE with Adekola and Neal Davis performing from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. followed by a Live Jam Session inviting any and all artists to join the stage from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Drinks specials available at the Denizen MKE bar with charcuterie and cheese flights by Dom Sera Grazing Co.

  • Powering the livestream component of the event series on our YouTube Channel, Washington Park Media Center will also host a live marble dye makeshop c/o Invisual Group, where participants can decorate their own Washington Park Media Center accessory. Canni Cafe and Infusion Bar will be popping up with refreshing botanical infusions alongside Sauce MKE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing fresh, delicious food to communities across Milwaukee via bicycle.

  • JazzyRae' Jewels & Accessories offers a variety of trendy styles for women understanding fashion is ever-changing while DJ NettaRee performs from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

  • Meet local teaching artist and AWE program coordinator Marco Romantini whose work will be on display in AWE’s studio space. Supplies and an activity will be available for those who are looking to get creative.

Bringing the Neighborhood to Life

Inside and outside our buildings—and online—you’ll find an artistic assortment of experiences led by local creatives, many of whom live and work in the Washington Park area. This initiative, inspired by the 2 success of pilot events hosted in 2024, aims to support vibrant street life on Vliet Street, celebrating thearea’s rich diversity and creative talent.

At the heart of the series is a neighbor-focused streetscaping project, designed by us in collaboration with our neighbor Quorum Architects. Our sustainable landscape design on adjoining public and private properties will create welcoming and accessible gathering spaces with art, gardens, seating, bike racks and other nourishing features. We invite neighbors and visitors to share feedback on these designs, helping shape a local place that reflects our needs and dreams. By responding to ideas generated by neighbors, 43rd+Vliet aims to cultivate a joyful, inclusive beacon where any neighbor can create, connect and celebrate.

Rooted in Collaboration and Growth

43rd+Vliet isn’t just about events; it’s about realizing a long-term vision for a welcoming, safe, and joyful neighborhood beacon. Our collaboration seeks to bridge generations and cultural perspectives, building and strengthening relationships through art, conversation and shared experiences. By offering opportunities neighbors to participate and paying local creatives for their contributions, we aim to amplify culturally diverse voices often unheard and highlight the talents within our neighborhoods.

A Vision for Welcoming Spaces

This culturally rich area of Milwaukee is home to a wide range of neighbors, representing diverse races, ethnicities, genders and generations. An authentic experience of belonging is at the core of our mission.

Whether through ADA-compliant green spaces, playful intergenerational elements or working to remove barriers like food insecurity and street safety concerns, 43rd+Vliet ensures that everyone feels valued, celebrated and welcomed.

Lighting Up Our Corner with Possibility

From food to art, music to markets, 43rd+Vliet is growing a space where creativity thrives and neighbors and visitors alike feel at home. Together, we’re cultivating a community that’s brimming with opportunity, connection and joy. Join us in building a vibrant, sustainable model for neighborhood development that enriches lives and strengthens Milwaukee’s historic Washington Park and our surrounding streets and neighborhoods..

Additional Events every Month

43rd+Vliet free neighborhood event series will continue on select Fridays from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.:

  • February 28: Winter Game Night

  • March 21: Spring Equinox

  • April 25: Art Walk and Spring Clean Up

  • May 30: Park and Vliet Street Fundraiser

  • June 27: Night Market

https://www.washingtonparkmediacenter.com/live for more details.