Spotlight I
The differences in style between choreographers George Balanchine, Antony Tudor and Jerome Robbins create extraordinary contrasts as three of their signature works are revived by the Joffrey Ballet at the Auditorium Theatre, through March 20. Though Balanchine was Russian by birth and Tudor was English, they joined Robbins (good, ol’ USA gay boy) in forging a series of masterworks that shaped 20th Century American dance. Balanchine’s delightful Square Dance contrasts Baroque string music against anon stage caller’s rhymes. The Tudor work features music of Mahler. The Robbins work, N. Y. Export: Opus Jazz, is definitely in Sharks and Jets mode. Tickets from Ticketmaster or at the box office, $15-$98.
Spotlight II
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, a local institution and national treasure, presents its spring program this week (March 17-19) at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. The very contemporary troupe offers half-dozen dances, among them signature works and popular hits by choreographers Randy Duncan, Ron De Jesus, Margo Sappington and Mark Swanhart. A world premiere by John Lehrer and Nan Giordano also is on the bill. South Asian music, theatrical dance, and jazz moves in the tradition of company founder Gus Giordano are to be expected. $25-$45; (312) 334-7777 or at the box office.
Spotlight III
Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago and world-renowned choreographer, music musical director and performing artist Thuli Dumakude will debut a new work entitled 46664, commissioned to bring awareness, dignity, pride and the truth to light about HIV and AIDS. Nelson Mandela wore the number 46664 as a political prisoner for 27 years on South African’s infamous Rodden Island. Muntu will present the new work by Dumakude as part of the company’s Spring Concert at The Harris Theater for Music and Dance. A portion of ticket sales from this event will be donated to AIDS and HIV programs in Africa and the African-American Community. The donation will be made as part a year-long commitment by Muntu to raise awareness, drive support and connect people who themselves are committed to fighting AIDS and HIV in Black communities in the United States and abroad. The show is Saturday, March 26, 8 p.m.; $30, $35, $40 and $50 ($50 ticket includes a pre-concert reception at the Harris Theater). Call (312) 334-7777 or visit www.madtchi.com. In addition to raising funds and awareness for AIDS and HIV programs, Muntu also is engaged in a capital campaign to complete construction of the Muntu Performing Arts & Community Center, 47th and Ellis Avenue.