HARTFORD--Even at night on a busy Albany Avenue in Hartford, it's hard to miss an iconic landmark along the street.
Artists Collective has been in Hartford for nearly 50 years, providing professional training to students in theater, martial arts, dance and music with an emphasis on the arts and culture of the African Diaspora.
Time at this cultural institution is what many students look forward to every night.
One of those students, Kennedi Hill, dreams of becoming a professional dancer. “I really want to just, like, go out there and perform for really important people, like make people happy,” said Hill.
The program was founded by the late Jackie McLean and his wife Dollie McLean, as well as other professional Connecticut artists like Cheryl Smith, Ionis Martin and Paul Brown. The founders wanted to create an alternative for at-risk youth in the Hartford region.
Their work with youth has been recognized across the country, including by First Lady Michelle Obama.
They’re not only being applauded for their work in the arts, but for providing what they call the “skills for living,” like embracing diversity.
That’s why Marques Boase, a ballet student, said he feels comfortable being in a class with all girls.
“This school is judge free. There’s no judgement in this school,” said Boase.
These life skills are passed on from one generation to the next. Former student Charmaine Bradshaw once attended classes at Artists Collective and said it gave her confidence.
“I had lead parts. I was front and center. I was front row and I wasn't a size zero,” said Bradshaw.
Now, Bradshaw is back, hoping her daughter will find confidence, too.
While this Hartford gem is providing students with life and professional skills to hit the big stage, they're also looking to train the next star who will stay right here at home to preserve African culture in Connecticut and at the collective.