Combining athletic prowess and artistic perspective with bold, theatrical flair, River North Dance Chicago performs its fresh take on contemporary jazz dance. River North Dance Chicago, led by Artistic Director Frank Chaves, aims for audiences to feel the complete spectrum of human emotions in a single evening, and to leave them feeling joyful and exhilarated at the end of each program.
Founded in 1989, River North Dance Chicago has established itself as one of Chicago’s leading dance companies, and one of the most popular national repertory companies, receiving critical acclaim in the U.S. and internationally.
River North Dance Chicago’s repertoire features core works by Frank Chaves that are augmented with an array of pieces by nationally and internationally renowned choreographers. Performed by highly skilled and emotive dancers, these pieces explore new types of dance to keep the mix new, but Chaves is careful never to let the company stray from its jazz roots.
The company’s highly regarded residency programs and outreach include Street Beat: Dance Through the Decades – a social history of the 20th Century through dance; classroom workshops, open rehearsals and curtain talks.
Intersections Pre-Show Discussion
For insight and increased enjoyment of the performances, ticket holders can attend free pre-performance discussions, lead by Artistic Director Frank Chaves of River North Dance Chicago, in The Forum at Pack Place at 7 p.m. before both performances.
As part of Diana Wortham Theatre’s ongoing commitment to arts education, River North Dance Chicago will visit a local school to host a master class for young dance students.
If You Go: River North Dance Chicago, March 8 and 9 at 8 p.m. Tickets: $40; Student $35; Child $15.
Internationally Acclaimed Pilobolus
A returning favorite of Asheville audiences, Pilobolus Dance Theatre performs its breathtaking combination of humor and invention. Using everything from acrobatics to puppetry and shadow imagery, Pilobolus creates a metamorphosis on stage between physicality and illusion.
Named after an ever-changing organism, and drawing inspiration from biology, Pilobolus has created a dance vocabulary all its own. With its novel approach to dance infused with humor, science and incredible feats of the human body, Pilobolus makes modern dance accessible and fun for all.
Pre-Show Event
During the performances the theatre conducts a raffle to benefit the Youth Education Scholarship (Y.E.S.) Fund. The theatre’s Y.E.S. Fund provides children the opportunity to experience the arts by attending Matinee Series performances.
Patrons can purchase raffle tickets for only $5 for a chance to win prize packages from regional businesses and artists such as art and craft gallery items, restaurant gift certificates, homemade goods, tickets for area performing arts venues and attractions, retail and services, and more.
Winners are announced at the end of each evening. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase throughout the evening. All raffle ticket proceeds benefit local students.
If You Go: Pilobolus, March 19 & 20 at 8 p.m. Tickets: $48; Student $45; Child $20.
To purchase tickets call the Diana Wortham Theatre box office at (828) 257-4530 or visit www.dwtheatre.com. Student Rush tickets ($10 for students with valid I.D.) are sold the day of the show, based on availability.