America’s oldest and most comprehensive festival of tap celebrates its 34th year with two weeks of rhythm bending, in-person performance and education programs by a combination of veteran and next generation artists. Attendees may take one class or a combination of masterclasses, courses, or choreographic residencies.
Classes will take place at Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building 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.
Rhythm World 2024 Features 4 Unique Performances at 3 Iconic Chicago Venues . . .
Black Legislators' Auditorium at The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Saturday, July 13, at 6:00 PM FREE - OPEN REHEARSAL
Sunday, July 14, at 5:00 PM FREE
The Chicago Human Rhythm Project welcomes you back to The DuSable’s Black Legislators Auditorium, to premiere a new tap dance work with Stone Soup Rhythms. A new rhythmical investigation, ‘Ugly Flavors’ will show a sample for the first time at this venue, with choreography by CHRP artistic director Jumaane Taylor. This work will incorporate all tracked music by Columbia Symphony Orchestra from “Rite of Spring” PART 1, and live Ornette Coleman selections from the Brent Griffin Jr. Trio. With prolific tap solos from Rhythm World artists Jason Janas, Naomi Funaki, Cartier Williams and Melissa Almaguer.
This project was supported by the Changing Times Tap Initiative, a division of Changing Times Tap Dance Company, Inc.
New York, NY.
JUBALEE! Gala Honoring Derick Grant and Michael Foster at the Jazz Showcase
Tuesday, July 16, at 6:30 PM
The Chicago Human Rhythm Project welcomes you to our annual Jazz Showcase concert. An evening of celebration and improvisation with Rhythm World faculty, special guests and the Eric Hochberg Trio. Returning to Rhythm World, master practitioner Jason Janas, legendary tap dancer Cartier Williams and more.
Then, stay for the JUBALEE! After Jam, An improvisational session led by our Rhythm World 34 faculty, invited professional tap dancers and the Eric Hochberg Trio. You will witness the true preservers here at this session, the groundbreakers and torch bearers of this dance. Returning to Rhythm World, young lioness Naomi Funaki, leader of the new school Karissa Royster, master teacher Sarah Savelli, legendary tap dancer Derick K. Grant and other special guests. Free entry with Gala tickets.
The Studebaker Theatre at the Fine Arts Building
Friday, July 19, at 7:00 PM FREE
Hoofing at the legendary Studebaker. Join the Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s final festival concert! We bring our annual tap dance festival concert from Rhythm World 34 down to the Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building! Expanding percussive sound, space and time. Solos by the iconic Derick Grant, new champion breed Naomi Funaki, Flourish Dance Academy founder Martin Bronson, masterful artist Cartier Williams and CHRP’s own Lane Alexander. With new work being presented by faculty choreographer Sarah Savelli, including Karrissa Royster and Stone Soup Rhythms.
2024 Artists
2024 Rhythm World Festival Brochure
Classes will take place at Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building in the Annex
Hotel Accommodations
If you're looking to mix things up, ACME is the right choice for you. Located 2 ½ blocks from the Magnificent Mile in the River North neighborhood, ACME is downtown Chicago's lifestyle hotel alternative for the tragically hip. If you appreciate an eye for design and dig a high-tech vibe, you'll feel right at home in this trend-setting, but invitingly approachable hotel. Click the link below to take advantage of the Rhythm World 34 discounted rates. Interested in room sharing? Email dlayne@chicagotap.org to coordinate.
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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.
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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 Nicole Ravenbear, 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.