The evening began with a moving rendition of the early ’80s roller-skating movie Xanadu, starring Olivia Newton-John, and ended with a show-stopping tribute to Grease. At each of the evening’s two performances, nearly 25 professional dancers—from companies including Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, River North Chicago Dance Company, Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago and Joffrey Ballet Chicago—performed 16 fully choreographed production numbers to songs by Dolly Parton, Beyonce, Paula Abdul and Britney Spears, among others.
The crowd was called on to participate during the shows by bidding on an auction prize for a complete drag makeover. The auction raised over $3,000, and three lucky men were transformed and revealed to the audience at the end of each show. At the second show, Randy Jones of the legendary band the Village People assisted with the auction and announced the winner. Proceeds of this year’s event will benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Test Positive Aware Network, Better Existence with HIV, South Side Help Center and The Dance for Life Fund.
Chicago’s top professional dancers performed in routines arranged by acclaimed choreographer Harrison McEldowney, and hair and makeup was provided by Who’s That Girl producer Patrick Russo. Sponsors of Dance Divas included The Fairmont Chicago, Editworks Chicago Inc., Concentrix, Chicago Scenic Studios and Grey Goose Vodka.
Dance Divas is a pre-event of Dance for Life, which brings together members of Chicago’s premier dance companies to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS while promoting the art of dance. Now in its 14th year, Dance for Life is the largest performance-based AIDS fundraising event in the Midwest and Chicago’s premier dance benefit. This year’s event is Saturday, Aug. 27 at Navy Pier’s Skyline Stage. Tickets go on sale to the public Thursday, June 30 and can be ordered by calling 312-922-5812 or visiting www.danceforlifechicago.com.
PICTURED FROM TOP:
Eddy Ocampo performed as pop music idol, Beyonce.
Jeff Hancock performed as Shirley MacLaine.
AIDS Foundation of Chicago Executive Director, Mark Ishaug, Board President, Isaiah Crawford, and Dance Divas co-chairs, Joe Moroschan and Rodger Pielet, smile as they mingle with guests at the Dance Divas event held June 10 at the Fairmont Chicago.
Dance Divas performers including ‘Olivia Newton John’ and ‘Britney Spears’ serenade the audience in the grand finale of the June 10 event held at the Fairmont Chicago.
Photos by Catherine Sikora