Philip & Marsha Dowd
Rhythm World 2025 Features 4 Unique Performances at 3 Iconic Chicago Venues . . .
America’s oldest and most comprehensive festival of tap celebrates its 35th Anniversary with two weeks 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 DuSable Black History Museum, the legendary Jazz Showcase, and the Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building. For more information or assistance registering, email registration@chicagotap.org
Jazz Showcase
Wednesday, July 9, at 7:00 PM FREE
Join the opening night of Rhythm World with the Jazz Hoofing Quintet, plus leaders of the old and new schools as they "shed" in the standard way of tap and jazz music.
Featured are Stone Soup Rhythms' member Keyana Latimer and the Brent Griffin Jr Quartet, with a 30 minute closing act as Jumaane Taylor solos with the quartet in hard bop form.
Gala! JUBALEE at the Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Wednesday, July 16, at 5:30 PM
Support Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s Gala! JUBALEE This annual fundraiser will honor three extraordinary Chicagoan's for their Exceptional Contributions to Performance, Arts Education and Community. Help us Tap into the Future as we honor Jumaane Taylor, Nora Daley and Alderman Michelle Harris. The evening will feature a pre-performance reception, the JUBA! Award ceremony, masterful performances and a post-performance after party! Proceeds from the JUBALEE Gala will support the expansion of the Mayfair Arts Center and our acclaimed arts education program - We All Got Rhythm!
2025 Performances
Black Legislators' Auditorium at The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Sunday, July 13, at 5:00 PM FREE
Rhythm World 35 concerts continue as Chicago Human Rhythm Project welcomes you back to The DuSable’s Black Legislators Theater to showcase generations of master soloists alongside the Brent Griffin Jr. Quartet!
The top professional soloists from the east coast come to join the stage with local legends. Jason Janas and Christina Carminucci from the east, and rising star, Chicago native Shannon Kaminski perform with the legendary Mr. Taps, Jimmy Payne Jr. and Reggio McLaughlin. This will be a masterful evening of individualism in tap with a jazz quartet: a perfect blend in this field.
The Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Friday, July 18, at 7:00 PM FREE
Hoofing at the legendary Studebaker Theater, join the Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s final festival concert! CHRP brings its annual tap dance show from Rhythm World 35, where all leading generations line up here! RW 35 faculty solo on this concert stage, from the honorable rhythms of the coasts, to the rich midwest sounds and beyond. These tap dancers orchestrate masterpieces on the floor. Come witness these soloists represent the best in tap within their various rhythmical voices, exemplifying respect and progression in the art form’s tradition.
Following is a world premiere from Sarah Savelli, accompanied by the Eric Hocheberg Trio, RW 35 faculty and guest professional tap companies. This piece celebrates the legendary Oscar Peterson selections for his 100th anniversary, bringing the art of tap composition to his known jazz works.
Student Showcase at The Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Tuesday, July 15, at 7:00 PM FREE
Chicago Human Rhythm Project opens up the concert floor for the Rhythm World 35 Student Showcase! Often an audience favorite, young artists from around the world share their rhythms and passion.
If you either have a solo, small or large group routine you’d like to perform, THIS is your opportunity! We look forward to witnessing your work during our final festival week. Performance submissions no longer than 5 minutes. Please sign up with info@chicagotap.org if interested.
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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How do I determine what level is appropriate for me or my child?The best way to determine the appropriate level for you or your child/teen/dancer is to ask their instructor, who is most familiar with their abilities. If their teacher is unfamiliar with our program and/or instructors, we can better determine an appropriate level if you provide a video link which shows you or your child/teen/student dancing in which the feet can be CLEARLY heard. You can send video links to registration@chicagotap.org.
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What are the age restrictions for the programs?While there are no strict age restrictions for most programs, some things to consider are whether you or your child/teen is at the appropriate skill and maturity level for the chosen classes. Maturity and skill level are not always determined by age, but students must be able to function in a highly focused learning environment. We can help to place students in the appropriate program/level by viewing clear videos in which the feet can be clearly heard. More specific questions and video links can be sent to registration@chicagotap.org
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I have no experience with tap dancing. Can I take beginner-level classes?Unfortunately, there are no classes offered at Rhythm World for absolute beginners. There are a few advanced beginner classes for those with some tap experience. Beginner level classes are offered year-round at the Mayfair Arts Center and Fine Arts Building.
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Can I register for classes at the festival? Or should I register in advance?You may register at the festival for any classes that still have openings. However, CHRP does not guarantee that you will be able to get a spot in your preferred classes if you register at the festival. We highly recommend you register in advance.
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Can I video the class?No, videos are not allowed. You must ask permission of the instructor if you wish to make a video AFTER class. Videos are NOT permitted under any circumstance DURING classes.
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Are there any discounts?There is a 5% discount for groups of 5-9 dancers; 10% for groups of 10 - 14 dancers; 15% for groups of 15 - 19 dancers; and, 20% for groups of 20+ dancers. Please contact Victoria Andrus, Rhythm World Manager, at registration@chicagotap.org for more information about how to register a group and receive a discount.
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What is the cancellation policy?Students may cancel their registration by June 14 to receive a refund minus a $75.00 cancellation fee + the $35.00 registration fee. Unfortunately, refunds will not be issued after this date for any reason.
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What if the class I want is full?If classes are full, you can be placed on a wait list for the classes you wish to take. CHRP will notify you if a spot opens up in your desired class.
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What if my class is cancelled?CHRP reserves the right to cancel any class before the start of the festival, due to low enrollment. If your class is cancelled, we will notify you right away and you will have an option of moving to a different class, a tuition credit to be used at another program or a full refund.
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How can I help/volunteer at Rhythm World?Please call the CHRP office at 312-542-2477 to learn more about volunteer opportunities at Rhythm World.