With 25+ years of experience as a professional dancer, choreographer, educator, and mentor, TANJI HARPER combines formal training with a deep understanding of the power of the arts to transform lives. After a successful career performing with nationally recognized R&B and hip-hop artists, Tanji returned to Chicago to focus on youth development and arts education. As Executive Artistic Director of The Happiness Club, she created and led dance programs serving Chicago Public School teens. 

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by young adults ages 18 to 25, Tanji founded Blu Rhythm Chicago, an innovative arts collective that provides professional-level performance opportunities, workshops, and mentorship to bridge creative expression with life skills. Her choreography and movement direction have been featured in numerous Chicago theaters, underscoring her commitment to culturally relevant, inclusive arts experiences. Reviews praise her choreography for its effectiveness and creativity. Chicago Sun-Times highlighted her dynamic musical staging: “kinetic, structured movements keep the stage dynamic”. 

Tanji uses hip-hop, dance, and storytelling to promote positivity, community, and creative empowerment among Chicago’s young people. Rooted in her parents’ legacy of artistic passion balanced with professionalism and resilience, Tanji’s work fosters community engagement, cultural expression, and youth empowerment through the arts.