Pictured: Indigenous Enterprise will be performing at the Living Arts Festival taking place November 10-17. Photo courtesy of Indigenous Enterprise.

In 2015, Kenneth Shirley launched Indigenous Enterprise at a community college in Phoenix, Arizona, with a vision to celebrate and share the richness of Indigenous culture through film, fashion, and dance. Over these past eight years, Indigenous Enterprise has evolved into one of the most dynamic cultural companies globally. Their performances have enchanted audiences at prestigious venues and events, including the Super Bowl, Sydney Opera House, Joyce Theater and the 2020 Presidential Inauguration. Their work has graced MTV and World of Dance, earning critical acclaim from The New York Times and Vogue Magazine. Now, Indigenous Enterprise is poised to make its mark at the Living Arts Festival, where they will honor their heritage and uplift the Sarasota community through the vibrant tradition of powwow song and dance. “Our mission is to inspire and elevate audiences while fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous identity through our compelling performances,” says Kenneth Shirley, the 28-year-old CEO and founder of the group.

Shirley, who began dancing at the tender age of two—before he could even walk or talk—views powwow song and dance as a profound means of sharing a culture that has been integral to his life from the start. He believes that these traditions often bring a deep sense of peace to communities. “At our performances, everyone receives a blessing, regardless of their race, ethnicity, culture or religion,” Shirley explains. “If someone is facing challenges or experiencing sadness, our dancers have a unique ability to uplift spirits and provide comfort. We strive to spread this message of healing and positivity wherever we go.”

Shirley will bring four members of Indigenous Enterprise to the festival—elaborately dressed performers who are lifelong friends. Drawing on their extensive experience as champion powwow dancers, the group promotes Indigenous culture through a multifaceted approach that includes film, fashion, and dance. In addition to traveling the globe to perform, Shirley, who studied filmmaking at ASU, is currently developing a film with Indigenous Enterprise, titled Borders, which will soon be available for streaming nationwide. “We’re expanding the company to be more than just a Native dance troupe,” he says. “While dancing was our foundation, we aim to broaden our reach.” With their ventures into film production and their new and unique clothing line, Indigenous Enterprise continues to gain recognition while remaining dedicated to advancing Indigenous culture and heritage, empowering and inspiring audiences around the world.

Pictured: Indigenous Enterprise will be performing at the Living Arts Festival taking place November 10-17. Photo courtesy of Indigenous Enterprise.

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