Chicago’s Dance Scene: An Overflow of Events and Performances

Consider the challenge of choosing between the Joffrey Ballet’s “Liliom” at the Lyric Opera House on September 17 and “Dancing with Bob” at the Harris Theater. The former draws inspiration from the French play that inspired the musical “Carousel,” while the latter showcases performances by Trisha Brown’s troupe, featuring works by Brown and Merce Cunningham and collaborations with artist Bob Rauschenberg.

Later in the fall, Bob Eisen, a notable figure in the experimental dance scene, returns for the 3320 Dance Series. As he approaches 80, Eisen explores aging through a duet performance. The series boasts remarkable dance events this fall, offering an abundance of choices in Chicago’s vibrant dance landscape.

A Second Helping of “In the Round”

Dance resumes at the Murphy Auditorium, hosted by the Driehaus Museum, with Brendan Fernandes presenting “In the Round,” a blend of dance and visual art inspired by Judson Dance Theater. This series includes open rehearsals, workshops, and film sessions led by dancer-choreographers Xenia Mansour, Hanna DiLorenzo, and Kara Hunsinger. Running from September 16 to November 14, reservations are encouraged.

Exploring “Liliom” Before “Carousel”

The Joffrey Ballet’s “Liliom,” set in a Depression-era amusement park, sees John Neumeier adapting Ferenc Molnar’s 1909 play. The Joffrey’s showcasing of “Liliom” runs from September 17-27 at the Lyric Opera House. Tickets range from $47 to $205.

Time Traveling at the Harris

“Dancing with Bob” celebrates collaborations with visual artist Bob Rauschenberg and revives Trisha Brown’s “Set and Reset” along with Merce Cunningham’s “Travelogue.” The performance takes place on September 17 at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Tickets are available from $40 to $155.

Tangoing with Stanchions

Ginger Krebs’s “Protected by Invisible Fence” explores crowd control and human interaction with technology. This performance runs from September 18-20 at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, with tickets priced at $30.

Making a Difference for 25 Years

M.A.D.D. Rhythms celebrates a milestone year at the Chicago Tap Summit with workshops, film screenings, and new works by co-founders Bril Barrett and Martin “Tre” Dumas III. This event occurs from October 2-4 at Harold Washington Cultural Center, with tickets from $35 to $50.

“Carmen.maquia” Returns with Ballet Hispanico

Ballet Hispanico revives Gustavo Ramirez Sansano’s “Carmen.maquia” on October 10 at the McAninch Center. Tickets range from $54 to $75.

Exploring Aging in Dance

The 3320 Dance Series features works grappling with aging bodies by artists like Bob Eisen and Jyl Fehrenkamp. “Mid Century Modern” and other pieces debut from October 16-24 at Dovetail Studios. Tickets are $27.

New Visitors to the Auditorium

Dance Theatre of Harlem returns after a decade with “Firebird,” while Ballets Jazz Montréal debuts with Leonard Cohen music. Performances are scheduled for October 17 and November 7. Tickets range from $44 to $154.

A Sizzling Season Opener

Giordano Dance Chicago revisits select works, including new pieces by Al Blackstone and classics by Autumn Eckman and Ronen Koresh. Performances take place November 6-7 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets range from $35 to $70.

New Creations from Familiar Names

Fernando Magadan crafts new work for Hubbard Street alongside Linda Haberman’s debut and Aszure Barton’s “LubDub.” The performances run from November 13-17 at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Tickets range from $20 to $115, available from September 8.