Joffrey Ballet
A Top Dance Company
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Joffrey Ballet is classically trained to the highest standards and have become one of the most recognizable arts organizations in America.
General Information Name: Joffrey Ballet Year Founded: 1956 Founders: Robert Joffrey, Gerald Aprino Current Artistic Director: Ashley C. Wheater Location: Chicago, USA Official Website: www.joffrey.org Brief history In 1956, Robert Joffrey and Gerald Aprino formed a distinct six-dancer group that toured the country. The ensemble performed original ballets that were created by Robert Joffrey. Aprino guided the group across America's heartland and settled down in New York City, initially with the name, Robert Joffrey Theatre Ballet. In 1962, modern choreographer Alvin Ailey was invited to make a work for the company. In 1965 the company made its debut as the Joffrey Ballet and by 1966, they were invited to become City Center's resident ballet company. The 1960s and 1970s were a golden era for the company. In 1995, the company left New York City and moved to Chicago to establish a permanent residence. The company struggled financially for the first few years and nearly had to shut down. However, in recent years, their performances have attracted larger and younger audiences resulting in a notable change. In 2005, the company celebrated its 10th anniversary in Chicago and continues to thrive becoming one of the top dance companies in the world. Dancers The company currently has 42 dancers from international places such as Cuba, Spain, England and also America itself. The company appeared in the well-known movie, "Save the Last Dance" (2001). They were also the subject of Robert Altman's film, "The Company"(2003). Most of the roles are played by real-life company members and include stories taken from the actual dancers and choreographers. Repertoire The company repertoire is made up of both classical and contemporary pieces. They regularly perform classical pieces, such as The Nutcracker ballet and Romeo and Juliet ballet. The company have worked with many creative choreographers including Paul Taylor, Twyla Tharp and George Balanchine. Location In August 2008, the company moved into its first permanent home, the Joffrey Tower. It is located in Chicago and has a new facility where the Academy of Dance, their official School, are also situated. Associated ballet school The Academy of Dance, Official School of The Joffrey Ballet, offers well-rounded dance curriculum to students of all ages, levels and backgrounds. The school officially opened in January 2009. The Academy has many different programs and provides tuition for professional dance and develops students into diverse and individualistic artists.
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