The world of dance is expanding in Chicago since it’s attracting more than its usual patrons. Those who love stories, appreciate anthropology, or have a fondness for the holidays will also enjoy the following events.
The Field Museum and The Harris Theater for Music and Dance present “A Conversation with Bangarra Dance Theatre” (Nov. 19). “Bangarra is an extraordinary company, not just because of their powerful dancing and stunning stage design,” explains Harris Theater President and CEO Patricia Barretto, who will moderate the discussion.
“We are committed to reflecting a multitude of voices on the Harris Theater stage – especially those not often seen in a classical performing arts setting – and we are deeply honored to present Bangarra Dance,” continues Barretto. “The company’s mission is to share the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples around the world, and our partnership with the Field Museum will bring this engagement to an even wider audience.”
“We’re honored to celebrate Bangarra’s unique expression of heritage and help shine a spotlight on the importance of First Nations and indigenous storytelling,” adds Field Museum president & CEO Richard Lariviere.
The Harris Theater also welcomes Hubbard Street Dance Chicago’s “Forge Forward” (Nov. 7), which showcases work by Crystal Pite and world premieres by Kyle Abraham and Princess Grace recipient Rena Butler, to its stage. For tickets and more information, call 312-334-7777.
Deeply Rooted Dance Theater presents “Reaffirmed/Reimagined” (Dec. 13-15) at the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts on the University of Chicago campus. The program includes classic revivals, company repertoire and a preview of a collaboration with gospel artist Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers. To order tickets, call 312-795-9777.
The Joffrey Ballet performs the Chicago premiere of “Jane Eyre” (through Oct. 27) at the Auditorium Theatre. Featuring Amanda Assucena in the title role and music by Philip Feeney, the Charlotte Brontë novel is adapted by renowned British choreographer Cathy Marston.
“Cathy is breaking glass ceilings in the ballet world, and with ‘Jane Eyre’ she creates an unconventional heroine whose trials and passions are beautifully articulated through choreography,” says Ashley Wheater, the Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director of the Joffrey.
The company will follow up the performance with “The Nutcracker” (Nov. 30-Dec. 29), also at the Auditorium. Both programs include live music performed by the Chicago Philharmonic, under the baton of conductor Scott Speck, music director of The Joffrey Ballet.
“Twas the Night Before…” (Nov. 29-December 30) will make its world debut at The Chicago Theatre thanks to Cirque du Soleil and The Madison Square Garden Company. “Featuring original acrobatics, spectacular choreography, dazzling costumes, and familiar music sure to strike an emotional chord, ‘Twas’ is a completely new experience that brings families together to celebrate the holiday spirit,” promises the show’s Chief Executive Producer Yasmine Khalil. To learn more, visit chicagotheatre.com/cirque.
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Top image of Joffrey Artists Amanda Assucena and Greig Matthews in “Jane Eyre,” photographed by Cheryl Mann.
Bottom image of Deeply Rooted Dance Theater Dancers Briana Arthur, Paige Fraser, Joshua Henry, and William Roberson in “Forces,” photographed by Michelle Reid.
