DANCE | HUNGER | ACTION
2026

In 2021, SMCDT Artistic Director Elijah Alhadji Gibson began volunteering at the Houston Food Bank. Through that experience, he witnessed firsthand both the realities of food insecurity and the extraordinary work being carried out by volunteers, staff, and community partners across Houston.

As those experiences continued, he began exploring how dance and performance could serve as a platform for awareness, engagement, and collective action. During Hunger Action Month each September, those ideas evolved into what is now Dance | Hunger | Action.

What began as a small initiative has grown into a month-long festival that brings together youth performers, emerging artists, professional dance makers, educators, and community members through performances, classes, scholarships, volunteer initiatives, and community programming.

Now in its third annual year, the festival continues SMCDT’s commitment to connecting artistic practice with direct community impact.

A month-long festival where powerful performances and purposeful programming come together to fight food insecurity through art and action.

IMPACT

Since its launch, Dance | Hunger | Action has brought together youth performers, emerging artists, educators, and professional dance makers from across Texas and beyond.

• More than 200 performing artists and 22 participating groups

• More than 37,000 meals provided through donations, food drives, and volunteer initiatives benefiting the

Houston Food Bank

• Scholarship and training opportunities for young dancers and emerging artists

• Community partnerships and volunteer engagement throughout National Hunger Action Month

Dance | Hunger | Action highlights performances from youth ensembles, pre professional artists, and professional dance makers from across Texas.