Clyde’s work started in 2003 with a drive to promote black arts in his community. He performed and directed dance pieces for the Overture, BET-Black Entertainment Television, and even our first black president Barack Obama. In 2018 Clyde used his experience to open Dane County’s first black-owned performance arts center: The House Urban Arts Initiative, Inc. The House hosts an array of programs for youth and adults such as dance, drama, and theater arts.

Clyde says that teaching dance has literally saved his life. Being self taught was a lesson for him in how to teach. Teaching dance full time to youth allows him to draw on his own experiences dealing with the structure of dance mentally, physically, and emotionally. He views his own personal struggle as a privilege he can share with youth who can learn from an instructor who looks like them and reflects their experiences.

His work does not stop at teaching. He is also Co-Owner of Events By Mayberry, an event consulting firm that hosts weddings, birthdays, workshops, seminars, and other private events. Born from a desire to help a friend with her twin childrens’ first birthday, EDM has grown into a scalable business that can host smaller gatherings or assist with logistics at large venues.

While all of the events are fun and interesting in their own way, Clyde is especially fond of planning weddings. The emotional and spiritual connection that a couple exemplifies, and being able to coordinate a day of joy in celebration of that, is a special treat. 

Clyde embodies what it means to be a walking masterpiece. Although Clyde wears many hats his favorite slogan is, “I’m not yet tired.” He promises to continue promoting authenticy, love, and arts in his community any way he can. When asked how he maintains his tireless commitment, he reminds us that being good to yourself allows you to do good for others. Take time for yourself first, and that means making time for daily rest and sometimes vacationing. Remember: passion over profit, and the riches will come!

2022 Pride in Color

The Change-Maker: From his time with the City of Seattle to his new role at Promega, Christopher Peguero has always advocated for equitable change.

The Pastor: Cameron Overton (he/him) is the executive pastor at Zao MKE Church and a Black transman called to build the church into an intersectional and queer liberated space committed to the liberation of all people.

The Ancestral Flame: Maria Paula Lujum is the Youth Programs Manager for Centro Hispano of Dane County.

The Educator: Stacy Clark is a Community Health and Equity champion whose mission is to provide services and education to others that he may not have had as a young, black, gay male.

The Good Foot: Al Poliarco is the force behind Barefoot Hands Bodywork

The Dynamo: Clyde Mayberry is the CEO & Founder of the first African American Performing Arts Center in Dane County.