The art, life and work of Kelly Burget through the words of those loved her

On February 6, we lost a cherished member of the arts community when Kelly Burget passed away. Kelly, the founder and artistic director of Uzima Drum and Dance, was the epitome of a person who wore many hats. Throughout her distinguished career, Kelly was classically trained musician, actress, educator and television personality, in addition to be a loving wife and mother. It was though her work as a dancer where people got their chance to see Kelly’s creativity, talent, kindness, generosity, and love for Black culture. A native New Yorker who was born in the borough of Brooklyn, Kelly accepted a scholarship to dance with the acclaimed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Kelly gained valuable experience in a myriad of dance styles while training at Ailey, and she took a particular interest in African dance. Kelly came to our community in 2003 to host The Harvest Show and became an adjunct professor of African and Afro-Dance at IUSB in 2012. It was around this time that Kelly began crafting what became Uzima Drum and Dance, playing a leading role in developing the company into a beloved community arts institution. Kelly’s legacy lives on through the people who worked with and loved her and have pledged to complete the work that she started. That work continues on Saturday, July 18 when Uzima Drum and Dance presents Ndyio ya Milele “Eternal Yes,” a performance honoring Kelly’s legacy. Appearing on this special episode of the Many Hats Podcast to talk about that performance and Kelly’s life and legacy are Pierre Batiste, Michelle Jewel and Mia Daly.