Today marks the beginning of the 32nd annual Black College Dance Exchange (BCDE), held at Chicago State University. The event, which runs through Sunday, was established by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to bring dancers from predominantly black colleges and universities together for master classes and performances.

Instructors include former DT cover star Homer Bryant, Joffrey Ballet’s Pierre Lockett and CSU dance director Debra J. Nelson, plus artists from Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, Dance Theatre Chicago, Madd Rhythms, Dallas Black Dance Theater and more. Students will perform for the public Friday night, and professional artists take the stage on Saturday.