In the heart of Park Manor, the Servin’ Fysh Dance Company is fostering joy and inclusivity through dynamic dance performances. On a rainy Thursday afternoon, after a vibrant hip-hop and vogue routine to Todrick Hall’s “Attention,” dancers embraced one another, exchanging heartfelt sentiments of love.
Founded nearly a decade ago by Gerald Willis, who is also the group’s DJ, and Larkey Goodwin, the company creates a sanctuary for LGBTQIA+ dancers to express themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. With a commitment to support, the duo ensures dancers have more than just a stage; they provide assistance with housing, food, and care.
“I wanted to create a place where people could be safe, be judge-free, and be comfortable in their diversity,” Willis shared. He explained that the name “Servin’ Fysh” symbolizes a team for everyone, embracing all who wish to join.
The group is known for its electrifying performances that blend various dance styles—masculine, feminine, and everything in between—to showcase their versatility. Goodwin emphasized the importance of this diversity, stating, “We can do everything.” With Willis’s unique approach to music curation, which intertwines classic hits with contemporary tracks, the performances are unexpected and inclusive. Routines can shift effortlessly from jazz to voguing and popular line dances, captivating diverse audiences.
Recently, Servin’ Fysh took the stage during a halftime show for the Chicago Sky’s Pride Night, adding to their repertoire of vibrant performances. Goodwin noted that while they aim to distinguish themselves from others, the core goal is to provide a platform for self-expression through innovative music and choreography.
For both Willis and Goodwin, dance represents a lifeline. They credit dance with teaching them self-acceptance and nurturing a sense of pride in their identities. The company is always on the lookout for opportunities to showcase their talent but remains focused on creating a nurturing environment where dancers can authentically live their truths.
“I want us always to be a haven, to be a family,” Goodwin expressed. “People should feel they can come to us when they’re struggling and receive the love they need. We want to be remembered as the team that wasn’t scared and didn’t judge.”
Willis’s journey in dance began on the West Side, where he participated in youth troupes but quickly realized the lack of LGBTQ+ representation in traditional dance teams. “We were forced to do ‘boy routines,’” he recalled, highlighting the struggle for diversity within the dance community. Willis sought to change that narrative by creating Servin’ Fysh, where dancers of all identities can unite.
In 2016, Willis established the Servin’ Fysh Dance Company, inspired by his late uncle who was part of the LGBTQ community. This uncle taught him the importance of self-acceptance even in the face of adversity, urging him to embrace his identity. The name “Servin’ Fysh” resonated with him, and his uncle loved it. The company’s inaugural performance at a St. Louis pageant marked the beginning of what would become a powerful platform for artists.
Goodwin joined forces with Willis, infusing his own experience and passion to lay the foundation for a successful dance team. Having danced since the age of nine, Goodwin was inspired by the Disney Channel movie “High School Musical,” which encouraged self-expression through dance. His involvement in various dancing groups, from talent shows to more competitive teams, helped hone his skills and shape his distinctive style.
Together, Willis and Goodwin built a team based on talent, hunger, and community respect. As the company grows, they remain focused on quality over quantity, consistently welcoming dancers of varied backgrounds—many of whom are adults balancing professional and personal commitments.
Members fluctuate in number, but their drive and passion unify them. Goodwin echoed this sentiment: “It’s not about the quantity, it’s about the quality.”
Trinity Thornton, now 21, began her journey with Servin’ Fysh at the tender age of 11. She reflects on her growth and resilience through dance. “Being part of Servin’ Fysh has ultimately given me a lot of strength to keep going,” she shared.
Jazzlynn Jackson, who identifies as trans, found a sense of belonging within the group. With over 15 years of experience dancing alongside Servin’ Fysh members, Jackson proclaimed, “These are just like my real brothers and sisters. I wouldn’t trade them for anybody else or anything. I am Servin’ Fysh.”
Servin’ Fysh has performed across various venues, from basketball courts to street festivals, and aspires to elevate their visibility in larger music festivals like Lollapalooza or even join iconic artists like Beyoncé as backup dancers. However, they value the shared moments over individual accolades.
Willis concluded with a sentiment that reflects the essence of Servin’ Fysh: “Whether I’m here or [Goodwin] is somewhere else, I know that this was my partner in crime and we made magic together. I want all of my members to make it. I do it for them, not myself.”
As Servin’ Fysh Dance Company continues to thrive, it remains an inspiring testament to the power of dance as a means of expression, unity, and love within the LGBTQIA+ community.
image source from：blockclubchicago
