The Joffrey Ballet announced the establishment of new studio space and training facilities at 1920 S.Wabash Ave. (formerly the Chicago Dance Academy studios)expanding the Joffrey's reach to the South Loop and beyond, and marking a major step toward the completion of the organization's five-year "Joffrey for All" strategic plan.
Chicago Third Ward Ald. Pat Dowell said in a press release, "The Joffrey's expansion to the South Loop is another sign that Chicago's Third Ward is a destination for lively, energetic culture and community building that encourages a diverse range of people, voices, and vocations. We are overjoyed to welcome Chicago's iconic Joffrey Ballet to the neighborhood, adding to the many cultural institutions that make this particular part of the city so vibrant."
The space totals 5,314 square feet, with fully equipped studios with sprung floors, harlequin surfaces, and professional-grade sound equipment. The spacewhich conforms with all American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirementsalso includes a reception desk and waiting area, as well as two large locker rooms and break room with an expansive foyer. The building is close to public parking as well as Chicago Transit Authority Green and Red Lines stops (within a two-block radius) and several CTA bus routes.
Joffrey Tower (10 E. Randolph St.) will remain the company's main headquarters. With its new performance home at the Lyric Opera House situated on the western edge of the downtown business district, this new studio space in the South Loop completes a triangle of locations.