Joffrey Academy of Dance to Present New Slate of “Winning Works”
The Joffrey Academy of Dance, School of The Joffrey Ballet, will present four world premieres in the culmination of Joffrey’s national call for ALAANA (African, Latinx, Asian, Arab and Native American) artists to submit applications for their Winning Works Choreographic Competition. This year’s Competition winners—Natasha Adorlee, Christian D’Ariano, Kameron N. Saunders, and Mike Tyus (Recipient of the Zach Lazar Winning Works Fellowship)—each have choreographed an original work created for the Joffrey Academy Trainees and Studio Company to a commissioned score by a chosen composer collaborator. An additional performance has been added to the program this year due to popular demand.
“The Joffrey Ballet’s Winning Works program exemplifies a ‘Joffrey for All’ and our steadfast commitment to ALAANA artists,” says Greg Cameron, The Joffrey Ballet President and CEO. “Winning Works creates more than what we see on stage; it opens an opportunity. This program is integral to the Joffrey’s commitment to uplifting emerging choreographers and our Academy dancers. Since Winning Works’ inception, it has become one of the most impactful components of our organization.”
“Winning Works is actively shaping the future of dance, with an exceptional track record of launching professional dance careers,” says The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE. “Over its 13-year history, I have seen the best and brightest in the next generation of artists soar to new heights. This year’s choreographers particularly share a form of storytelling in their works. Natasha, Christopher Kameron, and Mike, bring pieces to the MCA that not only pushes the envelope of dance, but also convey unique narratives through profound artistic expression.”
Winning Works will be presented at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago’s Edlis Neeson Theater (220 E. Chicago Avenue) Thursday and Friday, March 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 18 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 PM, Sunday, March 19 at 2:00 p.m.. Tickets for Winning Works are $30 and are currently on sale at joffrey.org/winningworks. The world premiere works will also be available to view virtually following the in-person performances. Tickets for Winning Works at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago’s Edlis Neeson Theater are $30 and can be purchased at joffrey.org/winningworks. Performances take place on Thursday and Friday, March 16 and 17, 2023.
