Terrayne K. Ellis

With more than three decades of dedication to dance, Terrayne is a foundational figure in Chicago’s Footwork community. Beginning his dance journey in 7th grade, he’s helped carry the culture from neighborhood performances to national stages, as both a performer and a mentor to generations of dancers. As founder of the Main Attraction Dance Group, Terayne helped build one of the city’s most influential Footwork collectives. His earliest exposure evolved within local community parades, performing in the Danny K. Davis Parade since 1991 and the Bud Billiken Parade multiple times since 1994. Terrayne’s television credits include The Royce Glamour Talent Show, The Tony Mitchell Show, Channel 19, and four appearances on the Elma Ann Company Show – all platforms that helped introduce Chicago Footwork to a wider range of audiences, local and beyond. On the national stage, Terrayne is a three-time winner on Showtime at the Apollo in New York. As dedicated educator and mentor, Terrayne’s influence has extended through a network of local educational institutions; he’s taught at Austin Town Hall Park, Austin High School, Duke Ellington Elementary, Bronson Elementary, Michelle Clark High School, and Kelly Hall YMCA, along with master classes and performances at Chicago State University, Wright College, Elgin College, and the University of Illinois.