Mayfair Arts Center, a program of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project

- 8701 S Bennett Ave, Chicago, IL 60617

For decades, the name Mayfair has been a pillar of artistic and cultural education on Chicago's South Side. As a program of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), the Mayfair Arts Center carries on a powerful legacy while forging a new and exciting path forward. This isn't just a place for classes; it's a dynamic community hub dedicated to fostering artistic expression, building community, and promoting social justice through the power of rhythm. By preserving the rich history of the original Mayfair Academy, founded by the legendary tap dancer Tommy Sutton, and combining it with the innovative vision of CHRP, the Mayfair Arts Center offers a unique and enriching experience for all ages. It is a space where children, teens, and adults can come together to learn, create, and perform in a safe and supportive environment. From foundational dance skills to advanced artistic training, the center is committed to using the performing arts to empower individuals and strengthen communities throughout Illinois.

Located at 8701 S Bennett Ave, Chicago, IL 60617, the Mayfair Arts Center is conveniently situated in the Calumet Heights neighborhood. Its location on the South Side makes it easily accessible for local residents and those in surrounding communities. Recognizing the importance of accessibility for all patrons, the center has made a commitment to inclusivity with its wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance. This thoughtful design ensures that everyone, regardless of their mobility, can participate in the vibrant offerings of the center. The surrounding neighborhood is served by various public transportation routes, and for those driving, the location is easily reached via major expressways. This ease of access is a fundamental part of the Mayfair Arts Center's mission to serve as a resource for the entire Illinois community, bringing high-quality arts education to a central and welcoming location.

The Mayfair Arts Center offers an expansive and diverse range of services, catering to a wide array of interests and skill levels. As a program of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, which is a year-round presenter of percussive dance, the center specializes in rhythm-based forms but also provides a comprehensive arts education. The variety of classes is truly impressive, offering something for everyone. Here is a look at some of the key services and programs available:

• Adult lessons, Advanced classes, Beginner's classes, Intermediate classes, Youth classes, and Classes For Children: A structured curriculum for all ages and skill levels, from the very first dance class to professional-level training.
• Dance Styles: A rich tapestry of dance forms is taught, including Tap Dance, American Rhythm, African Dance, Caribbean Dance, Mexican Folkloric Dance, Irish Step Dance, Egyptian Belly Dance, Fusion Dance, Break Dance, and Spanish Dance.
• Specialized Programs: The center offers immersive experiences like Summer Intensives, After School Dance Programs, and Immersion Programs, providing focused training for dedicated students.
• Performance and Ensemble Opportunities: Students can join a Dance Ensemble, participate in a Dance Production, or attend weekly Dance Theatre and Company Classes, giving them valuable experience in performance and collaboration.
• Beyond Dance: The center's mission goes beyond movement, with offerings in Musical Theater, Music Class, and Fitness Classes. There are also unique programs in Business And Financial Management, Marketing And Graphic Design, and Website Development, providing valuable skills for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs.
• Community and Education: The center hosts Educational Programs, Lecture Demonstrations, and an ongoing Arts Education curriculum, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the arts.
• Space and Events: The facility is available for Space Rental and hosts various Special Events, further cementing its role as a cultural hub in the community.

The wide scope of these services highlights the center's commitment to being a holistic institution for artistic and personal growth, offering more than just dance lessons.

Several key features and highlights make the Mayfair Arts Center a truly special place and a landmark in the Illinois arts community. The center's foundational values and unique offerings set it apart:

• Legacy and Heritage: The center is a continuation of the Mayfair Academy of Fine Arts, a beloved institution founded in 1957 by tap legend Tommy Sutton. This heritage is preserved and honored by CHRP, ensuring that the legacy of excellence and community is carried on for future generations.
• Inclusivity and Safety: The Mayfair Arts Center is an LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safe space. This commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals is a core value and a vital part of its mission.
• Expert and Caring Instructors: Reviews from patrons highlight the talent and dedication of the instructors. They are praised for their "patience, knowledge, and excitement," creating an environment where students feel supported and encouraged to learn and grow.
• Community and Collaboration: The center is not just for one company; it is an incubator for many. It serves as a home for several resident partners, including Black Girls Dance and Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, fostering a collaborative ecosystem of artists and companies.
• Diverse Curriculum: The sheer breadth of classes, from Irish Step Dance to Mexican Folkloric Dance, reflects a commitment to cultural diversity and a celebration of rhythm in all its forms. This allows students to be exposed to and appreciate a wide range of global traditions.

These features underscore the center's role as a vital resource for artistic development and community building, making it more than just a place to take a class.

For more information or to connect with the Mayfair Arts Center, you can reach out directly. The center is located at 8701 S Bennett Ave, Chicago, IL 60617, USA. You can also contact them by phone at (312) 922-1272. The dedicated staff are ready to answer your questions about classes, programs, or how you can become a part of the community. Whether you're a parent looking for a safe and enriching after-school program for your child or an adult hoping to rekindle a passion for dance, the Mayfair Arts Center is a welcoming place to start your journey. The center accepts both credit cards and debit cards for payments, making the enrollment process as smooth as possible.

What makes the Mayfair Arts Center truly worth choosing is its profound commitment to community and its unique position at the intersection of history and innovation. This is a place that understands the power of the arts to transform lives. It honors the legacy of its founders while embracing a modern, inclusive vision. The center's dedication to providing a safe, welcoming, and diverse space for everyone, from children to adults and the LGBTQ+ community, is an invaluable asset to the city of Chicago. The quality of instruction is exceptional, with teachers who are not only masters of their craft but also caring mentors. By offering a rich array of classes that span different dance forms and even professional development, the Mayfair Arts Center provides a holistic education that prepares students for success both on and off the stage. This combination of historical reverence, social consciousness, artistic excellence, and community-focused programming makes it a truly unparalleled institution in Illinois and a fantastic choice for anyone looking to engage with the performing arts.

Mayfair Arts Center, a program of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project

8701 S Bennett Ave, Chicago, IL 60617, USA