Makin' Cake

Dasha Kelly Hamiltondescribes herself as a “writer, performer, facilitator, mother, daughter, sister, builder, dreamer, phenomenon and change agent.” Therefore, it is no coincidence that she was named Wisconsin Poet Laureate and Milwaukee’s Artist of the Year in 2021.

In her show, Makin’ Cake , she slices into American history exploring race, culture, and class in a refreshing and fun way. It is storytelling in layers and filled with aha-moments and poignant vignettes, digital media, and a supporting cast of two on-stage bakers. The show serves up an experience and a conversation about equity in America. Part history lesson, part social science revelation, Makin’ Cake is a short story about America's sweet tooth and pathway to salvation and leaves room for dessert and dialogue with a cake reception immediately following the performance.

Makin’ Cake was initially commissioned by the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, and included Kelly Hamilton facilitating arts-based conversations on race and class throughout the community. She continues to develop Makin’ Cake and to pursue dialogues about human and social wellness.