## Sixteen Chicago Creatives Who Defined 2024
Chicago’s vibrant arts scene roared back to life in 2024, delivering a wave of innovative projects and groundbreaking collaborations. This year saw a remarkable surge of creativity, encompassing everything from thought-provoking theater to electrifying musical performances and stunning visual art. We highlight sixteen creatives whose work resonated deeply with our arts reporters, leaving a lasting impression long after the final curtain call or gallery closing. Their contributions ranged from joyful explorations to powerful reflections on the complexities of our world, boldly addressing political turmoil and global conflicts. These are the artists we’ll be watching closely in 2025.
Musical Mavericks and Orchestral Wonders:
Ayanna Woods, a contemporary classical composer barely in her thirties, cemented her position as a rising star with *FORCE*, a three-act opera staged at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. This powerful work, featuring performer Anna Martine Whitehead, went on to tour nationally after its Chicago premiere. Her success follows in the footsteps of her sister, the globally renowned singer Jamila Woods.
The Blacknificent 7, a collective of Black composers pushing the boundaries of contemporary classical music, made a significant impact both individually and as a group. Members Shawn Okpebholo (whose *Songs in Flight* will be released in early 2025), and Jessie Montgomery (recently concluding a residency with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra), maintain strong ties to Chicago, while their collective influence spans the globe. Their collaborative performance, *African Queens*, at Ravinia, showcased their exceptional talents.
Omar Apollo, the Indiana-born singer-songwriter, expanded his creative horizons beyond his globally successful music career with his acting debut in Luca Guadagnino’s *Queer*. This marks a significant step for the artist, who has toured extensively this year, performing at Coachella and the Grammys.
Finom, the duo of Macie Stewart and Sima Cunningham, captivated audiences with their innovative pop music, blending the haunting beauty of folk with the energy of Chicago’s free jazz scene. Their album, *Not God*, produced by Jeff Tweedy, became one of our favorite local releases of the year.
Isaiah Collier, a South Side saxophonist, released *The World Is on Fire*, a powerful album with his band The Chosen Few before their split. The album fearlessly confronts contemporary issues such as the January 6th insurrection and social injustice, demonstrating the enduring power of art in the face of adversity.
Theatrical Triumphs and Cinematic Successes:
Jon Michael Hill, the youngest actor ever invited to join Steppenwolf Theatre’s ensemble, delivered a standout performance in the world premiere of *Purpose*, a family drama by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. His performance garnered him a role in the Broadway production.
Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson, co-directors of the film *Ghostlight*, showcased Chicago’s vibrant theater community by casting predominantly local actors. The film’s success on the festival circuit and its availability on major streaming platforms marks a significant achievement for Chicago cinema.
Tova Wolff, director and co-founder of Refracted Theatre Company, staged the world premiere of *Coronation*, a politically charged play that cleverly navigated the complexities of the 2024 presidential election. Post-show discussions provided valuable platforms for engaging with the play’s themes.
Visual Artists and Dance Innovators:
Jake Troyli, a rising visual artist and former Division 1 basketball player, created a striking 30-foot mural for the Democratic National Convention. His work has also been featured in prominent exhibitions in Milwaukee and San Francisco.
Kia Smith, founder of South Chicago Dance Theatre, continues to make waves in the contemporary dance scene. Her spring performance at the Auditorium Theatre featured six world premieres, showcasing her commitment to fostering international collaboration.
Beyond the Spotlight:
Miriam Paz, a Chicago DJ, spearheaded Sorry Papi, an all-girl reggaeton party, showcasing her dedication to creating inclusive spaces within the Latino music scene. Her success at Sueños Music Festival highlights the growing representation of women in the industry.
Klaus Mäkelä, the soon-to-be youngest maestro in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s history, has already begun to make his presence felt in the city, generating significant anticipation for his official appointment in 2027. His connection with the orchestra speaks volumes about the city’s enduring musical legacy.
These sixteen artists represent only a fraction of the incredible talent flourishing in Chicago. Their diverse contributions, reflecting the city’s multifaceted cultural landscape, promise an exciting future for the arts in Chicago and beyond.