Winifred Haun & Dancers

- 228 S East Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302

In the vibrant and diverse arts landscape of Illinois, Winifred Haun & Dancers stands out as a preeminent contemporary dance company. Founded in Chicago by award-winning choreographer Winifred Haun, this professional company has been a leading voice in the field for nearly three decades. What makes this group so special is their commitment to creating original, innovative dance works that illuminate and elevate diverse artists and global themes. They believe that the world is a better place when more people are dancing and making dances, a philosophy that they actively bring to life through their performances, workshops, and community engagement. As one former student shared, Winifred Haun is not only an amazing modern dance teacher but also a "beautiful person" who is kind and smart. This personal touch and dedication to both the craft and the people involved is a hallmark of the company. Their work is known for being thought-provoking and engaging, attracting a loyal following and critical acclaim from national and local publications alike.

Winifred Haun & Dancers is an organization with a mission that goes beyond the stage. Inspired by her father, a civil rights photojournalist, Winifred Haun has long used dance as a medium to address social justice and civil rights. Her choreography often tells stories with emotional impact, shedding light on important contemporary issues in an artistic format. This deep-seated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is evident in the makeup of the company's artists, staff, and board, creating a powerful connection with communities and audiences. The company's artistic vision extends to presenting dance in both traditional theaters and non-traditional community spaces like parks, museums, and libraries. This makes their art accessible to a broader audience, demonstrating that dance truly is for everyone. Whether in a grand venue or an intimate community setting, the performances are designed to encourage audiences to engage with the world around them, making each show not just a viewing experience, but an opportunity for reflection and connection.

While Winifred Haun & Dancers may not have a permanent, public-facing studio for daily classes at their official address, they are based in Oak Park at 228 S East Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA. This location serves as the company's administrative and creative hub. The company's performances and educational services, which are their primary offerings, are conducted on-site at various venues throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. This mobile and flexible model allows them to bring dance directly into diverse communities and unique spaces, fulfilling their mission to make dance accessible. Audiences can catch their work at renowned locations like the Lyric Opera House, Unity Temple, and other community venues. The company's service options are primarily onsite, meaning they bring their art and educational programs to the locations where they are needed, rather than a central, open-to-the-public facility. This approach enables them to collaborate with a wide range of partners and reach a broad audience base across Illinois, from urban centers to local neighborhoods. This model also allows them to offer specialized workshops and residencies that are tailored to the specific needs of a given community or organization.

Winifred Haun & Dancers offers a range of services that are focused on bringing the art of contemporary dance to a wide and diverse audience. Their services are centered around performance, education, and community engagement. Here is a list of the services they provide, which are often delivered in onsite formats:

• Dance Performances in traditional theaters and non-traditional venues.
• Dance Residencies, bringing the company's artists into local communities for extended projects.
• Workshops for various skill levels and age groups.
• Young Dancer Projects, which bring together young community dancers and professional artists to create new work.
• Choreography commissions for other companies and artists.
• Onsite Services, meaning they travel to locations to provide performances, workshops, and educational programs.
• Educational programming designed to make dance accessible to people of all ages, including children.
• Community-specific events that are created in collaboration with local organizations and residents.

The company's focus on these types of services highlights its mission to not only entertain but also to educate and engage with the community. Their workshops and residencies provide a hands-on experience, allowing participants to not only watch but also to be a part of the creative process. This is a crucial element of their artistic vision, which emphasizes that more people should be dancing and creating dances. The company is dedicated to fostering a love for dance and making it an active part of people's lives.

Winifred Haun & Dancers is distinguished by several key features and highlights that set it apart as a premier cultural asset in Illinois. The company is celebrated for its artistic integrity, commitment to social issues, and a personal touch that resonates with many. Here are some of the standout highlights:

• Award-Winning Choreographer: Winifred Haun is a highly respected and award-winning choreographer who has created over 75 new dance works. Her accolades include a MacArthur Foundation Award and a Ruth Page Award for Outstanding Contribution to Dance in Chicago, solidifying her status as a major figure in the field.
• Accepts Credit Cards: For convenience, the company accepts credit card payments for its services and event tickets, making it easy for audiences and participants to engage with their work.
• Good for Kids: The company offers programs that are suitable for children, including workshops and the Young Dancer Project, which aims to inspire the next generation of dancers and creators.
• Onsite Services: Instead of being confined to a single location, Winifred Haun & Dancers brings its art and educational programs directly to communities, performing in a variety of traditional and non-traditional spaces like parks and museums.
• Socially Conscious Art: The company is known for its original works that address and illuminate global themes and social issues, creating a meaningful and thought-provoking experience for audiences.
• Collaborative Spirit: They value collaboration, working with local communities and other artists to create performances, events, and workshops that meet specific needs, showcasing a true partnership model.

These features underscore the company's commitment to artistic excellence, community engagement, and social relevance, making it a truly unique and valuable institution in the Chicago area.

For those interested in the work of Winifred Haun & Dancers, or in engaging with their services, they are easily reachable by phone. While their administrative address is 228 S East Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA, all inquiries should be directed to their contact numbers for information on upcoming performances, workshops, and other opportunities. You can reach the company by phone at (773) 454-9843 or by mobile phone at +1 773-454-9843. It is recommended to call to get the most up-to-date information on their performance schedule and locations, as they frequently perform at different venues. The company also maintains a strong online presence where you can find news about their latest projects, event listings, and information on how to get involved, whether as a participant or a donor. The direct phone contact provides a personal way to connect with the organization and learn more about their unique approach to dance and community engagement.

What makes Winifred Haun & Dancers an excellent choice for anyone in Illinois is its unwavering dedication to creating art that is both aesthetically beautiful and socially significant. This company is worth choosing for its ability to bring professional, high-quality contemporary dance out of traditional performance halls and into the heart of communities. Their innovative use of non-traditional spaces like parks and museums makes dance accessible to new audiences who may not typically attend a formal theater performance. The focus on onsite services means the company is a resource for local organizations and schools, providing workshops and residencies that directly benefit the community. Furthermore, the company's commitment to social justice and civil rights, inspired by Winifred Haun's personal history, gives their work a powerful and meaningful depth. Choosing to support or engage with Winifred Haun & Dancers is an investment in art that challenges, inspires, and connects people. It's an opportunity to experience the work of a respected choreographer and a talented group of dancers who believe that art can make a real difference in the world. For anyone in the Illinois region looking for dance that is innovative, relevant, and deeply rooted in community, Winifred Haun & Dancers is a compelling and inspiring option.

Winifred Haun & Dancers

228 S East Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA