Embrace the beauty and therapeutic benefits of dance through the “Dancing with Parkinson’s” program, a collaboration between The Joffrey Ballet and Northwestern Medicine. This unique initiative offers a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, along with their caregivers, friends, and family, to explore the art of movement, specifically Ballet Dancing and various dance styles.
This specialized class goes beyond traditional exercise, connecting mind and body through expressive movements set to music. Participants are encouraged to discover new avenues of expression and exploration, fostering creativity and meaningful connections with others. Regardless of age, condition, or background, everyone is invited to experience the joy and freedom that ballet dancing and diverse dance forms can provide.
Our instructors are highly qualified and have undergone specialized introductory training through Dance for PD®, ensuring a safe and effective learning experience. Classes emphasize repetition, clear movement instructions, and stability exercises, while introducing participants to a range of dance genres including ballet, jazz, modern, tap, and improvisation. Each session is thoughtfully structured with the first half conducted in a seated position, and the latter half offering the option to stand, with all movements demonstrated in both seated and standing variations to ensure full participation for everyone. Currently, these enriching classes are offered completely free of charge.
Join Us in Lake Forest
- Location: Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Health & Fitness Center (1200 N Westmoreland Rd)
- Schedule: Mondays, 11:30am-12:30pm, for ten sessions: March 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st, April 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, and May 5th.
- Enrollment: Registration is now open! Register here! Class size is limited to 35 participants. Register promptly to secure your spot, as a waitlist will be implemented once capacity is reached.
Explore Ballet in the South Loop
- Location: Joffrey Ballet South Loop Studios (1920 S Wabash Ave)
- Schedule: Thursdays, 11:30am-12:30pm, for eleven sessions: February 27th, March 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, April 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, May 1st, and 8th.
- Enrollment: Spaces are available – Sign up today! Class capacity is 35 students. Register now to avoid disappointment as registration will close and a waitlist will be started once the class is full.
