Performers

Heart & Sole will lead the 2024 Maryland Folk Festival parade at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 20 down Main Street to the opening ceremony at the Perdue Dance Stage.

Heart & Sole Performing Arts was founded in 2018 by Jennifer D. Dickerson. Heart & Sole Performing Arts, LLC, is committed to fostering the growth of the community’s youth by nurturing character, effective communication, self-assurance, innovation, dedication, empathy, leadership, collaboration and holistic well-being. The organization’s foundation rests upon the transformative power of creative and expressive arts within the community.

The program began as an experimental after-school initiative, addressing the need for behavioral modification and academic improvement for students at Glen Avenue Elementary School. Since its inception, it has grown exponentially, accepting participants from all areas on the Eastern Shore and participating in various parades, festivals, school rallies and community events.

One of Heart & Sole’s primary aims is to address the devastating effects of poverty, which have been exacerbated by the challenges of the pandemic, particularly affecting low-income families who struggle to find affordable after-school activities for their children. Heart & Sole strives to fill in the gaps left by overwhelmed parents, teachers and community members, reviving a true “it takes a village” mentality.

Heart & Sole won Best Marching Unit in the Salisbury Christmas Parade in 2019 and 2022. Heart & Sole was nominated and qualified as a finalist for the 2024 Coastal Style Magazine categories of Best New Business and Best Youth Organization, while Dickerson was a finalist for Best Youth Coach.

Heart & Sole is excited to bring its heart and beats to the Downtown streets on Sept. 20 for the Maryland Folk Festival.