Giordano Dance Chicago

For residents across Illinois who appreciate the captivating power of dance, particularly the vibrant and evolving art form of jazz dance, Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC) stands as a true cultural gem. As America's original jazz dance company, GDC has been captivating audiences worldwide with its dynamic performances and diverse repertoire for over six decades. Founded in 1963, GDC is more than just a dance company; it's an institution dedicated to creating and presenting new and innovative jazz dance choreography, often redefining the very definition of the genre. Their mission is to bring this invaluable American art form to audiences and students of all ages and backgrounds, striving to enrich lives through dance, whether on the stage or in the classroom.

Under the artistic leadership of Nan Giordano, daughter of legendary founder Gus Giordano, GDC continues to honor the past while pushing the art form forward. The company is renowned for its preservation and promotion of the distinctive Giordano Technique, a groundbreaking dance form that has influenced countless dancers globally. Beyond their breathtaking performances, GDC is deeply committed to community engagement, bringing the joy and discipline of dance to diverse and underserved populations, including Chicago Public Schools students. For anyone in Illinois looking to experience the powerful, passionate, and elegant world of professional jazz dance, or perhaps even delve into learning the technique themselves, Giordano Dance Chicago offers an unparalleled opportunity right here in the heart of the state.

Giordano Dance Chicago is located at 1754 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA. This address places GDC squarely in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, a prime location that offers excellent accessibility for residents across Chicago and the wider Illinois region. Lincoln Park is known for its accessibility via Chicago's extensive public transportation system. The area is well-served by various CTA bus routes, making it convenient for those commuting from different parts of the city. Additionally, CTA 'L' train lines (such as the Brown and Purple Lines) are within a reasonable distance, further enhancing public transport options.

For individuals who prefer to drive, while street parking in Chicago can sometimes be challenging, the Lincoln Park neighborhood typically offers a mix of metered street parking and paid parking garages. It is always advisable to check local parking regulations and available options beforehand. The central location also means that GDC is surrounded by a wealth of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and other cultural attractions, allowing visitors to combine their dance experience with a broader outing in one of Chicago's most beloved neighborhoods. This ease of access ensures that the enriching experience of GDC's performances and educational programs is within convenient reach for many throughout Illinois.

Giordano Dance Chicago offers a comprehensive array of services that extend beyond captivating stage performances, encompassing education, outreach, and professional development.

• Dynamic Dance Performances: GDC is America's original jazz dance company, presenting a diverse repertoire of innovative jazz dance choreography through regular season performances in Chicago and touring engagements worldwide. These performances showcase the powerful, passionate, and elegant nature of the Giordano Technique.
• Nan Giordano Certification Program® (NGCP®): This program offers multi-level instruction and certification in the proprietary Giordano Technique. It is designed for dance educators globally, providing in-depth access to this groundbreaking dance form for integration into college, high school, and studio programs.
• Workshops and Master Classes: GDC offers various workshops and master classes led by their world-renowned artistic team and company members. These sessions provide opportunities for dancers of all ages and backgrounds to train in the Giordano Technique and other jazz dance styles.
• Residency Programs: The company brings its expertise directly to schools and institutions through residency programs, enriching students' dance education through immersive experiences.
• Choreography Projects: GDC company members often choreograph on and partner with local high school dance groups, fostering new talent and collaborative artistry.
• Giordano Experience: This unique offering allows groups to create a custom day with Nan Giordano and the GDC Company, providing a tailored and in-depth dance experience.
• Mentorship Program: College students are selected to be mentored by a GDC Company member, offering invaluable guidance for aspiring professional dancers.
• Youth Arts Education Fund & Programs: GDC believes in making the arts accessible to all. They support transformative education initiatives like no-cost programs in Chicago Public Schools, workshops, school residencies, mentorship programs, and scholarships for underserved youth. This includes their signature "Jazz Dance/Science & Health" program, which integrates health and science curriculum with dance.

Giordano Dance Chicago possesses a unique set of features and highlights that distinguish it as a pivotal institution in the world of dance, both locally in Illinois and internationally.

• America's Original Jazz Dance Company: GDC holds the esteemed title of being the first dance company dedicated entirely to jazz dance. This historical significance underscores their pioneering role in elevating jazz dance to a recognized and respected art form.
• The Giordano Technique: At the heart of GDC is the world-renowned Giordano Technique, a proprietary method developed by Gus Giordano. This specific technique forms the foundation of their training and performances, offering a unique and influential approach to jazz dance that is taught and certified globally through the Nan Giordano Certification Program®.
• Dynamic and Innovative Choreography: GDC is celebrated for its commitment to creating and presenting new, innovative jazz dance choreography. They constantly redefine and expand the genre, ensuring their performances are fresh, engaging, and push artistic boundaries. One reviewer noted how each of their eight dances "touched a different person immensely."
• Strong Community Engagement and Outreach: A significant highlight is GDC's deep commitment to the community. Their programs, particularly "Jazz Dance/Science & Health" in Chicago Public Schools, integrate dance with vital educational curricula, bringing light, beauty, and energy to under-resourced communities. The "Dancing with Giordano Stars" fundraising event also highlights their impactful community involvement.
• Exceptional Dancers and Artistic Team: The company features "talented dancers" who make audiences "feel like we’re on top of the world." The artistic leadership of Nan Giordano, with her 41 years of experience and commitment to mentoring, ensures the highest caliber of artistic excellence and performance.
• Global Recognition and Impact: GDC has toured extensively, bringing American jazz dance to audiences in numerous countries. This international acclaim further solidifies their status as a leading dance company and a source of pride for Illinois.
• Holistic Dance Experience: For audiences, GDC offers a "wonderful experience" that consistently "exceeded expectations," whether through live jazz bands accompanying performances or the sheer impact of the choreography. For those looking to learn, the reputation of the school/studio makes it a planned destination for future visits.

For those in Illinois interested in connecting with Giordano Dance Chicago for performances, classes, or general inquiries, here is their contact information:

Address: 1754 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

Phone: (312) 922-1332

Mobile Phone: +1 312-922-1332

For locals throughout Illinois, Giordano Dance Chicago offers an unparalleled and deeply enriching experience, making it a highly suitable and valuable local institution. Firstly, as America's original jazz dance company, GDC provides a unique opportunity to witness and engage with a groundbreaking art form that has its roots firmly planted in American culture, right here in Chicago. This is a chance for residents to connect with a piece of dance history and witness its ongoing evolution firsthand.

Beyond the spectacular performances that consistently exceed audience expectations, GDC's commitment to education and community outreach is particularly relevant for Illinois families. Programs like "Jazz Dance/Science & Health" in Chicago Public Schools demonstrate a genuine dedication to making dance accessible and beneficial, especially for underserved youth. This means that locals aren't just supporting an arts organization; they are investing in programs that build confidence, discipline, and a love for the arts in the next generation within their own communities. The opportunity to learn the renowned Giordano Technique, whether through workshops or potentially the school/studio (as one reviewer plans to do), offers a tangible way for aspiring dancers of all ages to directly engage with a world-class methodology.

The central and accessible location in Lincoln Park also makes it convenient for many Illinois residents to attend performances or participate in programs. Ultimately, Giordano Dance Chicago is more than just a dance company; it's a dynamic force for artistic expression, education, and community enrichment, providing inspiring and impactful experiences that truly resonate with the local spirit of Illinois.

Giordano Dance Chicago

1754 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA