Erin Allen is an artist and communicator, driven by her curiosity about the stories of people. She has a dynamic background in audio, from producing multimedia work at Michigan Radio and WDET to co-hosting Radio Campfire, a live, listening event series. Her passion for social justice and art with her skills in marketing and communications have led her to spaces like Stone Soup Housing Cooperative and Allied Media Projects. Erin holds a BA in psychology from Grand Valley State University. With spare time, she dances her heart out at music festivals and binges science fiction media of the Octavia Butler persuasion.
The Rundown: Bril Barrett is passing down the history of tap dancing
Bril Barrett isn’t just a dancer. He’s an educator, self-proclaimed “tap-tivist.” Barrett is also a 2024 National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellow.
The Rundown: The dream of homeownership often conflicts with history and reality
Homeownership can help build wealth for your family, your community, and even society at large. But the barriers that exist can make this challenging.
The Rundown: Tarnynon Onumonu on healing through poetry
Chicagoan Tarnynon Onumonu discovered poetry at 10 years old. As an adult, she uses it to find community and healing.
A guide to Chicago’s queer nightlife beyond Northalsted
The area formerly known as Boystown has long been a draw. But Chicago Social Butterflies reporter Jake Wittich says the city offers so much more.
The Rundown: Chicago Palestine Film Festival feels a little different this year
This year’s Chicago Palestine Film Festival opened nearly 200 days into the war in Gaza—to a sold-out weekend.
The Rundown: Actor LaRoyce Hawkins is exploring his poetic side
We celebrate actor and spoken-word artist LaRoyce Hawkins as part of National Poetry Month.
The Rundown: It can be tough out there for Chicago theater actors
The theater industry isn’t an easy one to make a living in right now, whether you’re Equity or non-Equity. But many still can’t turn away from the business.
The Rundown: The dance party for those who want to bust a move and value sleep
The creators of the Earlybirds Club want you to dance your heart out with your bestie, just like you used to, but still get home by 10 p.m.
The Rundown: Helene Achanzar says meeting an artist can change a student’s life
Helene Achanzar is the director of programs at the Chicago Poetry Center. She gets to introduce artists to students of all ages.
The Rundown: Legendary artist Faith Ringgold passed away Saturday
The artwork of Faith Ringgold is bold, bright and political. She passed away at age 93, but her legacy continues.