House of the Lorde

- 2233 S Throop St Suite 502 Floor 5, Chicago, IL 60608

In the heart of Chicago’s vibrant Pilsen neighborhood, House of the Lorde stands as a unique and powerful creative sanctuary. It is a space built on the principles of embodiment, joy, and collective care, offering more than just dance classes. Founded by visionary artist Jenn Freeman, also known as Po' Chop, this studio is a Black and women-owned business that has cultivated a tender and inclusive environment for performers and students alike. The foundation of the House of the Lorde is rooted in a Black Feminist practice, drawing on the idea that our erotic is a deep source of hidden knowledge and that bringing our full selves liberates everyone in the room. This philosophy is evident in every aspect of the studio, from its classes to its community gatherings. It's a place where you can learn to move your body in new ways, find a supportive community, and unleash your imagination to forge new worlds that can hold your freedom. For anyone looking for an accessible and enjoyable way to fall in love with their body again, House of the Lorde offers a safe and empowering answer.

House of the Lorde is renowned for its approach to burlesque and drag, which goes far beyond a typical dance class. It is an art studio that empowers individuals to rediscover their bodies and find confidence through movement. The creative approach to body movement offers something for everyone, regardless of skill level or physical abilities. As one student passionately expressed, they didn't know where they would be without the burlesque classes, praising the support and guidance found within the space. The instructors, including Po' Chop herself, are known for their ability to break down beginner moves while also offering more challenging varieties, ensuring that every student feels seen and supported. The studio also expands its offerings to include other forms of community and learning, such as healing circles and a book club. This holistic approach makes House of the Lorde a truly special place for performers and non-dancers alike, offering a sanctuary for rehearsal, rest, study, and collective care. The commitment to celebrating embodiment and joy is a key part of the studio's identity, making it a space where you can genuinely be your truest, most authentic self.

The studio's core offerings are rooted in dance and performance, but they are executed with a unique, empowering twist. Burlesque classes focus on the art of tease and theatricality, helping students explore their sensuality and build confidence in a safe, fun environment. Drag king classes provide a space to explore masculine personas and challenge gender stereotypes through performance art. Beyond the stage-ready routines, the studio also offers movement classes that are a blend of creative movement and fitness, designed to help people reconnect with their bodies in a mindful way. The option of virtual dance classes is a significant service offering, ensuring that even those who cannot attend in person can still be part of the community and learn from the exceptional instructors. For those looking for a more personalized experience, private lessons are available, offering one-on-one instruction and custom choreography. This range of services makes House of the Lorde a versatile resource for artists, performers, and anyone simply seeking a creative outlet for self-expression and personal growth.

House of the Lorde is conveniently located in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood, a hub of culture and community. The address is 2233 S Throop St Suite 502 Floor 5, Chicago, IL 60608, USA. This location makes it accessible for residents throughout the city. A key feature of the studio's accessibility is the availability of a free parking lot, a significant amenity in a busy urban area. The studio is located on the 5th floor, and it is wheelchair accessible. Furthermore, the studio is a truly inclusive and safe space for all. It is explicitly LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, with a gender-neutral restroom, creating an environment where every individual is respected and celebrated. The studio's commitment to creating a welcoming and safe space for all communities is a crucial part of its identity and a major draw for its diverse clientele. This deep-seated commitment to inclusivity makes the House of the Lorde a trusted and vital part of the Chicago arts scene.

House of the Lorde provides a carefully curated selection of services that cater to personal growth, artistic expression, and community-building. Their offerings are designed to be flexible and welcoming for all, with both online and onsite options available. The studio's services are not just about learning a skill but about fostering a deeper connection to oneself and others.

Services Offered:

• Adult lessons for all skill levels
• Beginner's classes, including Burlesque and Drag King classes
• Advanced Burlesque Classes for experienced performers
• Choreography classes focused on creative and expressive movement
• Private lessons for personalized instruction
• Movement Class focused on body awareness and joy
• Virtual Dance Classes for remote participation
• Community gatherings, healing circles, and book clubs
• Custom choreography and private event services

What truly makes House of the Lorde a standout is a combination of its core values and its unique offerings. First and foremost, the studio is a Black-owned and women-owned business, which contributes to the diversity of the Chicago arts landscape and provides a platform for underrepresented voices. The commitment to being a LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space is another major highlight, creating an environment where people feel seen, respected, and free to be themselves without fear of judgment. The unique curriculum, which includes burlesque, drag, and movement classes, offers a refreshing alternative to traditional dance and fitness studios. As one customer noted, the creative approach to body movement provides a space to "fall in love with your body again," a testament to the studio's body-positive and empowering philosophy. The free parking lot is a practical and highly appreciated amenity for anyone in the city. The studio is not just a business but a community hub that offers a variety of services, including a book club and healing circles, which speaks to its holistic approach to wellness and creativity. This blend of artistry, community, and social awareness is what makes House of the Lorde a truly special and worthwhile destination for anyone in the Chicago area.

Features / Highlights:

• Identifies as a Black-owned and women-owned business
• Explicitly LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space
• Offers a judgment-free, body-positive, and empowering environment
• Specializes in Burlesque and Drag King classes
• Provides both onsite and virtual classes for flexibility
• Offers a free parking lot, a significant convenience in Chicago
• Gender-neutral restroom for all guests
• Hosts community events, such as a book club and healing circles

For more information on class schedules, special events, or to book a private lesson, House of the Lorde is easy to contact. The address is 2233 S Throop St Suite 502 Floor 5, Chicago, IL 60608, USA. You can reach them directly by phone at (773) 364-1881 or on their mobile phone, +1 773-364-1881. The team is known for being responsive and professional, and they are always ready to answer questions and help you find the perfect class for your needs. Their open communication is a key part of their commitment to their students and the wider community.

When considering an art studio in the Chicago area, House of the Lorde is an excellent choice for a number of compelling reasons. The most significant is its unique and powerful mission. This is a place that goes beyond dance, offering a sanctuary for healing, self-discovery, and community. The glowing reviews from customers who have had transformative experiences speak volumes about the quality and impact of the classes. The studio's commitment to inclusivity, a safe space, and a body-positive philosophy makes it a rare find in the fitness and arts world. Furthermore, the fact that it is a Black and women-owned business with a clear mission of empowerment makes it a place worth supporting. The convenience of both onsite and virtual classes, along with amenities like free parking, makes it accessible to a broad audience. Choosing to take a class at House of the Lorde is not just a decision to learn burlesque or drag; it's a decision to join a community that celebrates authenticity, encourages vulnerability, and fosters a sense of belonging for everyone who walks through its doors.

House of the Lorde

2233 S Throop St Suite 502 Floor 5, Chicago, IL 60608, USA