Maxx’s inspiration to teach Chicago Steppin’ comes from a sincere commitment to serve, coupled with the strong desire to share his passion with those who want to learn the dance. Through DMX Dance Company, Dave Maxx is transforming a rich Chicago tradition into a fun activity that crosses community, cultural or ethnic boundaries. He believes Chicago Steppin’ is a fast growing dance form that offers
musical versatility, social interaction and mature entertainment options.
Artist BIo
Dave Maxx is a nationally renowned Master Dance Instructor from Chicago's South Side. He was introduced to Steppin in the early 90s, and credits his development to his mentor, the legendary stepper, Calvin Barnes. With over two decades of experience in the Steppin industry, Dave founded the instructional steppers network, MAK 3 Dance Club in 1999, and is credited with pioneering the national Chicago Steppin movement beginning in 2001. His latest venture, DMX Dance Company is a return to his instructional dance roots to develop dancers across the country who just don’t execute prescribed “steps”, but learn to feel what “dancing” is all about.
In his words, "Dance is the vessel through which one can express their true selves, bringing the words to life by capturing each defining moment in a different movement.”
Dave's commitment over the years has developed him into one of the most sought after lecturers, performers, and instructors in the country with a recent mention in Ebony Magazine’s FEB 2012 article “Steppin's Biggest Competition” in addition to various appearances, high-profile projects and accolades.
Workshops
Alvin Ailey Dance Center – New York, NY
The Millennium Complex –North Hollywood, CA
Debbie Allen Studios – Culver City, CA
Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts – Oakland, CA (formerly Alice Arts Center)
Lincoln Center (Midsummer Night’s Swing) – New York City
Music Videos/Television Appearances
R. Kelly’s “Step in the Name of Love” music video & 2002 Vibe Awards Show Performance
Gerald Levert’s “Baby You Are” music video
MTV's Direct Access Show
The Urban League of Chicago - NEXT TV Show
WGN's Morning News Show - Chicago
ABC Evening News - New York City
FOX Morning News - Chicago
Dance Competition Awards:
1st Place - V103 World's Largest Steppers Contest - Original, 2004
1st Place - V103 World's Largest Steppers Contest - Trio, 2005
1st Place - Steve Harvey's Steppin in Chicago Contest, 2006
2nd Place - World's Largest Steppers Contest - Original, 2011
3rd Place - V103 World's Largest Steppers Contest - Original, 2006
3-time Finalist V103 World's Largest Steppers Contest - Walkers, 2005, 2008, 2011
Best Instructional Video - The Steppers Awards, 2005
Private Celebrity Clients
R&B vocalists: Howard Hewitt, N'dambi
Comedians: D.L. Hughley, John Witherspoon, Bill Bellamy
Mark West, Former NBA-player
Devonne White, Former MLB Outfielder
Terri Vaughn, Actress