The Art that Moves Chicago

Did you know in just seven seasons, we've aired over a dozen artworks in collaboration with dancers and choreographers? In honor of International Dance Day, we're looking back on three of our past dance-centric projects featuring local artists.

And dance lovers, make note: this fall, local Chicago artist Brendan Fernandes — known for his blend of visual art, performance art, and dance — debuts a new work made just for us. Stay tuned for news and peeks behind-the-scenes. 

Featuring ten local dance troupes, Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project's 'The Big Bang: Movement Theory + the Black Dancing Body' was a magnum opus that transcended stunning technique and breathtaking aesthetics. Charting the history of dance in the United States in three acts, the project underscored the inextricable link between the Black American experience and the genesis of uniquely American art forms like tap dance and the Chicago-born footwork. Get the full list of participating companies and revisit this monumental movement project from 2023.

As an art form that also requires a high level of athleticism, dance is a perfect way to give kids a holistic head-start on building their focus, dexterity, artistry, and self-confidence. In 2021, we collaborated with After School Matters, a local organization that empowers teens to discover their passions, develop skills for life beyond high school, and build community along the way. Their project for us featured inventive dance works mashed up with animated murals and music — all conceived, created, and performed by kids.

For more artwork by students, you'll want to check out this year's presentation of Select Works From the Chicago Public Schools, running May 1 – 12. 

Recently featured alongside us in CS Modern Luxury's 2024 Travel Awards as "Chicago's Best Dance Company," The Joffrey Ballet consistently proves that ballet can be just as innovative, boundary-breaking, and entertaining as any other dance style — all while enriching the community with free programming and dance education opportunities. Check out our special presentations of their take on the Nutcracker from 2020, 2021, and 2022.