Chicago Dancers United (CDU), which supports the health and wellness of Chicago's professional dance community, welcomed more than 1,700 people to the 31st annual Dance for Life on Aug. 13 at the Auditorium Theatre, followed by an after party at Venue SIX10.
Through a combination of ticket sales, contributions and sponsorships, Dance for Life raised $300,000—exceeding its fundraising goal—to support The Dancers' Fund, which provides Chicago dance industry professionals with financial support for preventative health care and critical medical needs.
And the CDU also made an announcement during the event. CDU Board President Michael Anderson shared that the organization has formed a "newly formed partnership with Howard Brown Health, which will provide an organized approach to healthcare for those in our dance community who need primary healthcare or pathways to services, such as dental care and mental health."
The complete lineup of performing companies included Chicago Dance Crash, Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater, Giordano Dance Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet, NAJWA Dance Corps, and Trinity Irish Dance Company. Randy Duncan choreographed a world premiere finale, Never Enough, with music by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul and additional music by Andy Mitran, featuring dancers from throughout the Chicago area.
Co-chairs for Dance for Life 2022 were Jennifer Edgcomb, Ted Grady, and Ross Slotten. The presenting sponsor was Fred Eychaner, and lead sponsors included Tim and Paula Friedman, Barbara Levy Kipper and the Auditorium Theatre.
For more information, visit chicagodancersunited.org .
