The Event: What began as simple wish by Chicago performance artist, Keith Elliott, to help his fellow dancers afflicted with HIV/AIDS, has blossomed into 25 years of Dance for Life, which on Aug. 20 celebrated its ongoing support within Chicago’s dance community.
The spectacular began with a reception at the Hilton Chicago, then waltzed down to the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University where 2,400 supporters were treated to original performances from some of Chicago’s top dance troupes: Giordano Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Joffrey Ballet, Chicago Dance Crash and Visceral Dance Chicago.
To address changing medical needs, Dance for Life evolved into the non-profit, Chicago Dancers United, which helps fund organizations and dance community professionals dealing with critical health issues including, but not limited to, HIV/AIDS.
Cause célebre: “While (HIV/AIDS) is not over, we continue that fight by taking on other health issues,” said Anthony Guerrero of Chicago, Chicago Dancers United executive director.
The fund is a short-term emergency assistance grant program available to anyone who works in the dance community in Chicago, be they dancer, choreographer, teacher, administrator or technician. Beyond just helping with medical bills, the fund also offers assistance with things like rent, gas or electric bills to alleviate added financial stress during debilitating illness. The amounts vary and each case is decided on an individual basis.
“Twenty-five years, it just kind of flew by but it’s helped so many people,” said 20-year committee member, Cindy Stern of Highland Park. “And it is still necessary, still brings awareness to the cause and really still is a rallying point for the community.”
Bottom line: The benefit raised $425,000 bringing Dance for Life’s 25-year total to almost $6 million. The evening granted $100,000 to the Aids Foundation of Chicago, with proceeds also going to the Dancers’ Fund, Dance for Life and The Awareness Initiative.
More at chicagodancersunited.org