Ms. B. Brazhal Brewer, aka Ms. B, is the Dance Director of MSB Dance of Chicago, home to the Movement Strengthens Balance (MSB) Dance Ensemble.
“My dance philosophy is to encourage young children to use dance as an outlet of expression, challenge them to step outside of their box and inspire them with my passion for teaching,” Brewer says.
She is an alumnus of Whitney Young High School and graduate from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she received her B.F.A in Dance and B.S. in Interdisciplinary Health.
Brewer has an extensive dance background that includes training at Studio One Dance Theater, Ballet Chicago, Gallery 37, Alvin Ailey’s Summer Intensive (New York) and Hubbard Street. She was an NBA Dancer for the Chicago Bulls as a Luvabull during the 2012-2013 seasons.
Brewer has been teaching young children dance since the age of 11 at many dance programs and after-school programs to city youth. Currently she is also the CEO of MSB Dancewear Apparel Line.
MSB offers private dance classes in one-on-one sessions to provide an opportunity for students to receive undivided attention from a qualified dance instructor, allowing them to progress at their own pace and develop their skills more effectively.
“In the world we live in today, we all need a little balance. Movement Strengthens Balance Dance Elite Performance Ensemble creates the opportunity for youth to use dance as an escape, a release and provides structure,” Brewer said.
MSB’s goal is to inspire community members with dance education and focus on performance opportunities that will help motivate, educate, and help community members develop an appreciation for the fine arts.
MSB announces its upcoming Spring Recital on May 17, 2025—a must-see celebration of music and movement.
This year, the recital, “WONDER,” is a full tribute to the legendary Stevie Wonder, honoring his timeless music through the art of dance. MSB’s talented performers, ranging in age from 3 to 16, will showcase their skills in ballet, tap, hip-hop, African, modern, and more—bringing Stevie’s iconic songs to life on stage.
What makes this even more special is that Stevie Wonder is also going on tour this year, making this tribute a timely and meaningful celebration of his lasting influence.
“We selected Stevie Wonder for this tribute because of his incredible impact on music, culture and the world. His timeless songs resonate deeply with people across generations, and his ability to blend various genres, including soul, pop, and R&B, mirrors MSB DANCE’s commitment to embracing diversity and creativity in the arts,” Brewer said.
This recital also serves as a way to raise funds toward securing a forever dance home for the community, something Stevie’s music has always inspired us to do: creating lasting spaces for expression and connection. “We are also honoring Stevie this year because he is celebrating his 75th birthday—an occasion that underscores his enduring influence in music and culture,” Brewer said.
She mentioned that Stevie’s passion for sharing joy, his dedication to social causes, and his ability to inspire through both his music and message aligns perfectly with MSB DANCE’s vision and mission of fostering creativity, community, and empowerment through dance.
On March 10, a memorial service was held celebrating the life and legacy of Roberta Flack.
Stevie opened with the remarks, “The great thing about not having the ability to see with your eyes is the great opportunity of being able to even better see with your heart.”
And while Stevie can’t see, MSB will be on full display in a performance dedicated to one of the world’s greatest musicians and cultural ambassadors.
For more information, visit msbdanceensemble.com.
In Memorium
I want to extend condolences and prayers to the Hegwood-Jackson family on the loss of their mother, Delithia Hegwood Jackson.
Elaine Hegwood Bowen, M.S.J., is the Entertainment Editor for the Chicago Crusader. She is a National Newspaper Publishers Association Entertainment Writing’ award winner, contributor to “Rust Belt Chicago” and the author of “Old School Adventures from Englewood: South Side of Chicago.” For info, Old School Adventures from Englewood-South Side of Chicago (lulu.com)