The highlight of August may have been the week of free performances by nationally renowned dance companies during Chicago Dancing Festival, but September belongs to The Other Dance Fest. Otherness being the smaller, Chicago-based modern and experimental companies/artists who often perform in intimate venues, warehouses, public spaces and park district buildings. And there’re a lot of them, all worth seeing. This week’s lineup includes Peter Carpenter, Darrell Jones, Hedwig Dances, Lucky Plush, Raizel Performance and Other Fest hosts Chicago Moving Company. A lot of these artists have evening-length shows scheduled in the fall and winter, and this showcase provides a preview sampling of larger works. Workshops and classes from the two-dozen artists presenting run throughout the month as well. Come to opening night (this Thursday) and get a slice of birthday cake at intermission to celebrate the fest’s tenth anniversary. (Sharon Hoyer)
At the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 North Hoyne. September 8-30, Thursdays and Fridays, 7:30pm. Single tickets $15, performance passes available at chicagomovingcompany.org.
Safe, Exuberant and a Real Good Time: A Preview of Instigation Festival "We brought old and new friends together to take creative risks at multiple venues across Chicago and magic ensued. We shared a similar non-verbal language. This magic has transpired for the past eight years in bars, music venues, museums, backyards and even Lake Michigan."
Encouragement and Drive: A Preview of Dance for Life at the Auditorium Theatre “Dance for Life” is an annual concert that raises money for The Dancers’ Fund, which provides health care assistance for dancers and people who work in the dance field. But it also happens to be a beloved and joyful celebration of Chicago’s rich and abundant dance scene.
