Dance For Life

Dance for Life founder Keith Elliott began the evening of Aug. 18 by informing the crowd that “Dance for Life is legal to drink!” Indeed, since 1992, Dance for Life has raised money for various HIV and AIDS-related causes and, if the most recent event is any indication, is still a rousing success, this year raising almost $400,000.

Hundreds of people enjoyed drinks and appetizers at the pre-dance gala, held at the Hilton Chicago’s Grand Ballroom. Afterward, guests made their way to the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University where many—dressed in all manner of bowties, flashy heels, brightly colored suits and other dressy summer wear—mingled in the lobby before the show.

The evening began with a jazz number from the Giordano Dance Chicago, followed by an entertaining conceptual piece from the Luna Negra Dance Theatre. Next was an elegant number from the Joffrey Ballet and the first act closed with a world premiere from Harrison McEldowney, Dancers suspended from the ceiling performed aerial choreography by Jeremy Plummer and wowed the crowd with an energetic number.

The second act began with Ron De Jesus dance performing a contemporary number, followed by River North Dance Chicago, which had an especially affecting homoerotic interlude. More contemporary dance followed from Hubbard Street Dance Chicago before the finale, another world premiere—this time from Randy Duncan. An ensemble of dancers from the various companies performed an intense, rhythmic number to an original composition by Andy Mitran with striking costumes that Jeff Hancock designed.

At the beginning of the evening, Elliott dedicated the night to the dancers, thanking them for their generosity. This message was reiterated throughout the evening during speeches that were interspersed among the dance. Indeed, a night of stunning dancing, highlighting the generosity of the greater Chicago community in the fight against AIDS.

Performance photos by Hal Baim and Ed Negron.