The Chicago-based Joyce Foundation has announced the winners of the 2011 Joyce Awards, which support artists of color in major Midwestern cities.

Grants of $50,000 each were awarded to Hubbard Street Dance Chicago for a new work by African-American choreographer Alonzo King — his first in more than a decade; Minneapolis-based VocalEssence for a new work by African-American composer/musician Hannibal Lokumbe; the Minneapolis-based Children's Theatre Company in support of a new play by Asian-American playwright Naomi Iizuka, who won the first Joyce Award for theater in 2004; and the Central Indiana Community Foundation, which will use it to commission a public art sculpture for permanent display on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail by African-American visual artist Fred Wilson.

Launched in 2003, the program has awarded $1.6 million to cultural institutions in Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and the Twin Cities for the production of new works that strengthen cultural venues and draw people of diverse backgrounds to experience the rewards of participating in the arts. "We are pleased to recognize the artistry of these talented individuals and the lively organizations that will showcase these works," said Joyce Foundation president Ellen S. Alberding. "On behalf of the [foundation], we are proud that our [awards] provide a springboard to highlight the vibrant array of artistic talent in the Great Lakes region."