October is full of leaping tricks and spinning treats in the world of dance. (By the way, look for Black Swan costumes this year up and down Halsted Street on Halloween.)
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will perform a program called "Generations" at Governors State University's Center for Performing Arts on Oct. 28.
Ailey changed the world dance from his legendary performance in 1958 and passed away in '89. The troupe has performed in 48 states and 71 countries. Two dancers in this current production are from the Chicago area; call 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net for ticket information.
Speaking of local tie-ins, Lionsgate Home Entertainment's Go For It! is released on DVD this month. This hip-hop dance feature was filmed in Chicago by writer and director Carmen Marron, who related it to her past experiences in the city. The movie has a Flashdance-like scene that is not to be missed.
Mary Poppins returns to Chicago this month running through Nov. 6 at the Cadillac Palace, 151 W. Randolph St. Huge unforgettable dance sequences such as "Step in Time" make this Disney classic a must-see for fans of choreography. Call 800-775-2000 or visit www.broadwayinchicago.com for details.
Natya Dance Theatre debuted a performance of "The Flowering Tree" Oct. 8 at the Harris Theater. Hema and Krithika Rajagopalan choreographed the world premiere. The piece begins with a narrative that has humor and charm, then launches into traditional dance including ankle bells and dance in which the ball of the heel is flexed instead of pointed. The dialogue was very dramatic, slammed home by the 20 dancers (with only one male cast member).
Look for more premieres along with dance lessons at www.natya.com . Locations can be found at Lincoln Park, Naperville and Downers Grove.
Deeply Rooted Dance Theatre is offering classes this fall for advanced dancers. This company brings together "modern, classical, and African-American traditions" in new and inventive ways, according to a press release.
Their 15th-anniversary show in December, entitled "Chicago Women of Song," closes the season. For information, visit deeplyrootedproductions.org .
Fundraisers start this month with a recent taste of food and wine at L20 spotlighting the upcoming season for Hubbard Street Dance Chicago.
Twyla Tharp sets a new work in motion at the Hubbard Street with an opening night celebration Thursday, Oct. 13, followed by the fall series on the weekend. Purchase tickets, become a VIP member or sign up for one or more of its 70 dance classes at www.hubbardstreetdance.com .
Get out of the house and learn some new steps with a variety of classes depending on your style. There is no excuse when free classes are offered to try at Chicago Dance. Anything from salsa, swing and tango along with ballroom dancing are options from beginners to advanced.
The Joffrey Ballet painted the town pink with its annual benefit last month; entitled "Couture & Cocktails," it was held at The Hudson. David Meister was the featured designer, presenting a runway show by Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue.
Joffrey is presenting its world premiere of Don Quixote Oct. 12-23. Ride over to www.joffrey.org/donquixote for details on a Russian choreographer's take on the Cervantes classic. It doesn't take a deep knowledge of the man from La Mancha to enjoy this timeless tale—and the performances should be visually stunning.
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) continues its new season with two can't-miss dance productions.
Faustin Linyekula: more more more…future, brought to you from the director and choreographer himself Oct. 21-23. Visualize the dark poems of political prisoner Vumilia Muhindo brought to life through dancing and a five-piece band. It sounds dark but it should be lively, with the always-interesting space and location.
Lucky Plush Productions: The Better Half runs Oct. 27-29, takes a Halloween break and returns Nov 3, 5 and 6. Ingrid Bergman inspires this group, which consists of two performers from 500 Clown plus choreographer Julia Rhoads. This show was developed through a residency at MCA this past June and should be a rare treat.
Send your November productions to be included next month to Andrew@WindyCityMediaGroup.com or ScottishPlayScott@yahoo.com .
