Thomas F. DeFrantz

Thomas F. DeFrantz is a Professor at Northwestern University’s School of Communication, Department of Performance Studies. His work centers on Black studies, dance, musical theatre, and queer theory, with a focus on anti-racist, feminist, and queer-affirming practices.

• Director of SLIPPAGE: Performance|Culture|Technology, exploring tech integration in live performance.
• Co-founded the Black Performance Theory working group and Collegium for African Diaspora Dance (325+ members).

His research bridges African American dance traditions with contemporary performance theory, emphasizing embodiment, cultural memory, and technological innovation. He has taught at institutions including MIT, Duke, and NYU, and consulted for the Smithsonian Museum of African American Life and Culture.

Recent publications and creative projects highlight intersections of Black dance, queer theory, and digital performance. The Collegium for African Diaspora Dance underscores his commitment to global collaboration in documenting Black dance practices. SLIPPAGE’s initiatives reflect his leadership in merging technology with performance culture.