Chicago Human Rhythm Project

For residents across Illinois, particularly those in the vibrant metropolis of Chicago, who are captivated by the intricate rhythms and powerful expressions of percussive dance, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP) stands as an unparalleled cultural institution. Since its co-founding in 1990 by Lane Alexander and Kelly Michaels, CHRP has evolved from a summer festival into the world's first year-round presenter of concert tap and contemporary percussive dance. More than just a school or a performance venue, CHRP is a dynamic hub that celebrates the primal human impulse to create rhythm, fostering artistic excellence, promoting cultural diversity, and building bridges within the community through the universal language of dance.

CHRP's mission is deeply rooted in empowering artists and communities to express culture and identity through rhythm and percussive arts. This non-profit organization champions American Tap, African, Native American, Indian, Mexican Folkloric, Irish Step, and other culturally specific, rhythm-centric art forms. What truly sets CHRP apart is its welcoming and professional environment, praised by new students as "great for a beginning tap student" and recognized for its "incredible displays of talent and finesse" by audiences. Through world-class concerts, educational programs, and innovative community initiatives, CHRP aims to foster great art, social reconciliation, and economic justice. Their annual "Rhythm World" festival is renowned as the oldest and most comprehensive annual tap festival globally, bringing together masters and students from around the world. This dedication to both tradition and innovation makes Chicago Human Rhythm Project a pivotal and enriching presence in the Illinois arts scene.

The Chicago Human Rhythm Project is primarily located at 410 S Michigan Ave #464, Chicago, IL 60605, USA. This address places CHRP firmly in the heart of Chicago's cultural district, within the historic Fine Arts Building, which is itself a landmark of artistic activity. This central downtown location ensures excellent accessibility for individuals commuting from various parts of Chicago and the wider Illinois metropolitan area. The area is well-served by numerous public transportation options, including CTA train lines and bus routes, making it convenient for students and audiences to reach the venue without the need for private vehicles.

While the administrative and some class offerings are at the Michigan Avenue location, CHRP has also expanded its physical footprint to better serve the community. In 2021, CHRP purchased the former Mayfair Academy building in Calumet Heights on Chicago’s South Side, transforming it into the Mayfair Arts Center (MAC). The MAC serves as a shared dance/arts space, offering classes, performances, and business development services, with the added benefit of free parking. This strategic expansion further enhances CHRP's accessibility, providing diverse rhythm-based classes including African dance, Afro-urban fusion, Afro-Caribbean, American tap, hip hop, Indian, ballet, and modern dance to a broader audience across Chicago. This thoughtful approach to location ensures that quality percussive dance education and performances are within reach for a wide array of Illinois residents.

• Year-round rhythm and percussive arts education for all ages and skill levels, from absolute beginners to advanced professionals.
• Comprehensive classes in various culturally specific, rhythm-centric art forms, including American Tap, African, Native American, Indian, Mexican Folkloric, and Irish Step.
• The internationally renowned "Rhythm World" festival, offering intensives, courses, master classes, a youth conference, panel discussions, and performances by masters and students.
• "We All Got Rhythm" in-school and after-school programming, providing high-caliber arts experiences to elementary and high school students through residencies, master classes, and lecture-demonstrations.
• Performance opportunities through various concerts and showcases held at prestigious venues across Chicago, including the Jazz Showcase, DuSable Museum of African American History, and the Studebaker Theater.
• Opportunities for professional development and artistic collaboration for independent artists and small to medium-sized dance companies through the Mayfair Arts Center.
• Scholarship programs, such as the Rhythm World Tap Scholar Award, offering financial aid for deserving young dancers to participate in summer immersion experiences.
• Community development initiatives that leverage rhythm-culture to foster social reconciliation and economic justice.

• Global Leadership in Percussive Dance: CHRP is the world's first year-round presenter of concert tap and contemporary percussive dance, and its Rhythm World festival is the oldest and most comprehensive annual tap festival globally.
• Diverse Cultural Representation: The organization champions a wide array of rhythm-centric art forms from various cultures, promoting diversity and understanding through movement.
• Welcoming and Professional Environment: New students and audiences consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere and professionalism, making it an excellent place for both beginners and experienced dancers.
• Esteemed Faculty and Artists: CHRP brings together world-renowned masters and visionary artists, ensuring high-caliber instruction and inspiring performances.
• Community Engagement and Outreach: Through programs like "We All Got Rhythm," CHRP provides extensive arts education to thousands of Chicago students, building bridges and fostering social impact.
• Accessible and State-of-the-Art Facilities: With locations in the Fine Arts Building downtown and the newly acquired Mayfair Arts Center on the South Side, CHRP provides professional dance spaces that are accessible to a wider community.
• Award-Winning Productions: CHRP has received an Emmy nomination for its co-production with WTTW, "JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance," and has been cited for leadership and innovation by national publications.
• Commitment to Philanthropy: As a non-profit, CHRP has awarded significant scholarships to talented youth, demonstrating its dedication to making dance accessible regardless of financial background.

For residents of Chicago and throughout Illinois eager to engage with the rhythm and magic of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, whether as a student, audience member, or supporter, please use the following contact details:

Address: 410 S Michigan Ave # 464, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Phone: (312) 542-2477

Mobile Phone: +1 312-542-2477

Connecting directly with CHRP is the best way to inquire about class schedules, upcoming performances, educational programs, and how to become involved with this vibrant organization. Their dedicated staff can provide comprehensive information to help you experience the profound joy and cultural richness that percussive dance brings.

For Illinois residents, particularly those in the Chicago metropolitan area, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project is an invaluable cultural asset that offers far more than just dance lessons or performances. It is a dynamic community dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of percussive dance while also driving innovation and fostering cultural understanding. The glowing testimonials, highlighting a "welcoming and professional" environment and "incredible displays of talent and finesse," speak volumes about the quality of instruction and the captivating nature of their performances.

CHRP's commitment to accessibility, demonstrated through its diverse program offerings for all ages and skill levels, its various locations (including the accessible Mayfair Arts Center), and its scholarship programs, ensures that the transformative power of rhythm is available to a broad spectrum of the local community. Whether you are a beginner looking to explore tap for the first time, a seasoned dancer seeking advanced training, or simply an enthusiast eager to witness world-class percussive artistry, CHRP provides a unique and enriching experience. By participating in CHRP, locals contribute to a vibrant artistic ecosystem that not only entertains but also educates, inspires, and fosters connections, making it an essential and highly suitable destination for anyone in Illinois.

Chicago Human Rhythm Project

410 S Michigan Ave # 464, Chicago, IL 60605, USA