Michael Allen is a Chicago Steppin instructor, performer, and founder of the Black Artist Ensemble (B.A.E.) Dance Company—a movement dedicated to culture, connection, and community. Through dance, Michael creates spaces where people don’t just learn steps… they build confidence, find belonging, and reconnect with themselves and each other.

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Introduced to Chicago Steppin at 25, Michael brings nearly two decades of experience and was mentored by legendary instructor Dave Maxx. His journey has taken him from local stages to national platforms, including the World’s Largest Steppin’ Competition, while sharing stages with artists like Slique Jay Adams, Cat Mahari, Brave Monk, Rae Chardonnay, and Lady Jaxx. He has also taught at the Chicago Tap Summit and collaborated with Sam Thousand.

For Michael, dance is bigger than movement—it’s legacy.

 

Through B.A.E., he’s reimagining Chicago Steppin as a bold, intergenerational experience where music, culture, and movement bring people together across generations.