About Black Warrior Dance

Every great organization begins with a story.

Black Warrior Dance was founded by choreographer, educator, and creative director Daryl L. Foster, a native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The city takes its name from the legendary Creek Chief Tuskaloosa (originally spelled Tuskaloosa), whose name translates to "Black Warrior."

According to Creek history and oral tradition, Chief Tuskaloosa was a towering leader—said to stand nearly seven feet tall, and whose courage became legendary as he defended his people and the lands of West Alabama during the Spanish incursions of the 16th century. His strength, resilience, and unwavering leadership secured his place in history.

Daryl Foster was born and raised in Tuscaloosa, not far from the Black Warrior River, which bears the name of this remarkable leader. In honoring that legacy, Black Warrior Dance embraces the spirit of courage, resilience, and purpose. Our name is a tribute to our founder's roots and a constant reminder that art has the power to challenge, uplift, and transform communities.

Today, Black Warrior Dance continues that legacy by creating bold artistic experiences that inspire dialogue, celebrate culture, and empower the next generation of creative leaders.

Our Mission

Black Warrior Dance, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization dedicated to advancing dance as a catalyst for artistic excellence, education, leadership, and social impact. Through performance, training, and community engagement, we cultivate artists who create meaningful change both on and off the stage.

Our Programs

LIFT: Men. Dance. Life.

LIFT is an all-male dance company comprised of Black men and men of color who use movement as a powerful vehicle for artistic expression, education, advocacy, and social justice. Through original performances, outreach, and dialogue, LIFT challenges stereotypes while celebrating the strength, vulnerability, and humanity of men of color.

EMERGING: A Course in Creativity

EMERGING is an intensive professional development program designed for aspiring choreographers and creative leaders. Participants gain practical experience in choreography, producing, directing, creative direction, lighting, sound design, marketing, and project management. The program culminates in a fully produced public showcase, providing participants with the knowledge and confidence to lead artistic projects from concept to performance.

The Foster Fund

The Foster Fund supports the future of dance by investing in artists and creative projects. Through scholarships, grants, and strategic funding opportunities, the Fund helps remove financial barriers to dance education, artistic innovation, and community-based creative initiatives, ensuring that emerging artists have the resources to realize their vision.