In Good Company
The art of dancing is probably as old as humanity itself, serving as catharsis for individuals and as social glue for communities.
Joel Hall Dancers, Chicago's quintessential American jazz ballet company, give that age-old art form a modern face.
In a style baptized "urban jazz," the contemporary
dance company channels the diversity of urban life through African-American spirituality and Latin beats. The company's multi-cultural
approach is also reflected in the composition of its students, who come not only from the dance center's Andersonville headquarters
but from across the city and its suburbs.
Since 1974, founder Joel Hall and faculty at his dance center have emphasized the development of each individual as a dancer
and as a member of the community. Students choose from a variety of classes ranging from ballet to swing to North African
dance. Sometimes the company takes its show out on the road, visiting schools and community groups.
Related Links
Check out some more of Chicago's jazz dance companies:
Gus Giordano Jazz Dance and the
Jump Rhythm Jazz Project.
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