Philip & Marsha Dowd
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Rhythm World 2025 Features 3 Unique Performances at an Iconic Chicago Venue . . .
America’s oldest and most comprehensive festival of tap celebrates its 35th Anniversary with a week of rhythm bending concerts and classes by a host of veteran and next generation artists.
Classes will take place at Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building on the 3rd floor in the Annex, Studio 300 at 410 S. Michigan Avenue with concerts at the Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building. For more information or assistance registering, email registration@chicagotap.org
Due to the recent NEA Notification of Termination and freeze on all funding commitments from the NEA —we have had to make the difficult decision to cancel all programming originally scheduled for July 9–13, 2025. This includes the concerts on July 9 (Jazz Showcase) and July 13 (DuSable Museum) as well as the masterclasses July 11–13 (Fine Arts Building).
Rhythm World 35 concerts and classes between July 15–20, 2025 will continue as originally planned.
While we’re disappointed to make this change, we’re thrilled to still bring you a dynamic week of programming filled with special courses, masterclasses, choreographic residencies, and two incredible performances with many of the best teaching and performing artists in the world.
Student Showcase at The Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Tuesday, July 15, at 7:00 PM FREE
Often an audience favorite! Enjoy young artists from around the world as they share their rhythms, passion and in many cases, blistering technical prowess. Previous performers included MacArthur “Genius” Michelle Dorrance, Jazz at Lincoln Center soloist, Jared Grimes and CHRP’s Artistic Director Jumaane Taylor. The Student Showcase is a window into the future of tap!
2025 Performances
The Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Friday, July 18, at 7:00 PM FREE
“Hoofing” rules at the Rhythm World grand finale . . . showcasing generations of virtuosos, fresh rhythms from every corner of the country and the world premiere of Sarah Savelli’s “Fly Me to the Moon”- a one act tribute to the late great Oscar Peterson. Explosive soloists, accompanied by the Eric Hochberg Trio will include Christina Carminucci, Derick Grant, Anthony Morigerato, Karissa Royster, Jumaane Taylor, Sam Weber and Cartier Williams. Witness these soloists represent the best in tap dance exemplifying respect and progression in the art form’s traditions.
Gala! JUBALEE at the Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Wednesday, July 16, at 5:30 PM
Join us for Rhythm World’s 35th Anniversary Gala JUBALEE featuring performances by Derick Grant, Dianne “Lady Di” Walker, Sam Weber, Demi Remick and more. This annual fundraiser will honor Jumaane Taylor, Nora Daley and Alderman Michelle Harris for their Exceptional Contributions to Performance, Arts Education and Community. The evening will also feature delectable pre- and post-performance receptions with proceeds supporting the Mayfair Arts Center and Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s acclaimed arts education program - We All Got Rhythm!
2025 Artists
2025 Rhythm World Registration
NOW OPEN!
Classes will take place at Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building in the Annex
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Hotel Accommodations
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Click the button below to take advantage of the Rhythm World 35 discounted rates! Offer expires 6/16/25.
STUDENT SHOWCASE
Chicago Human Rhythm Project invites you to share your work onstage during one of the most anticipated events of the festival—the Student Showcase on Tuesday, July 15 at 7:00 PM. Whether you have a solo, small group, or full ensemble piece, this is your chance to perform for an enthusiastic audience as we celebrate the next generation of tap talent.
PLEASE NOTE: We want to include as many performers as possible in this showcase so there will be a VERY limited number of solos presented. Group works are encouraged when possible.
Submissions must be no longer than 3 minutes for solos/duos, 5 minutes for small groups (3 - 7) and 7 minutes for large groups (8+).
If selected, performers will be required to attend a scheduled technical rehearsal (details forthcoming). PLEASE NOTE: the performance is FREE, but tickets must be reserved in advance—CHRP cannot hold tickets for performers or guests. Ticket reservations must be made through the Fine Arts Building event calendar.
Submit your piece by completing this form. For assistance, questions, or concerns please email registration@chicagotap.org .