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Joffrey Artists Olivia Duryea and Jeraldine Mendoza greet students at the new Joffrey studios in the South Loop.

Building a Joffrey for All

Leading up to the 2021–2022 performance season, the Joffrey ushered in a new chapter in its long and storied history.  

Tuesday, September 9, marked the official opening of Joffrey in the South Loop of Chicago, located at 1920 South Wabash Avenue. The introduction of Joffrey in the South Loop begins a five-year strategic plan that envisions a "Joffrey for All" through expanded programming and training for students in and around the Chicago region, while also providing more opportunities for Joffrey company artists and teaching artists.

“A foundational principle of the Joffrey mission that dates back to Robert Joffrey himself is that dance is for everyone,” said Joffrey Board Chair Anne Kaplan. “By widening our presence beyond our State Street studios at Joffrey Tower, the Joffrey is making a significant investment in our students, teachers, and community, which is also an investment in the cultural vitality of Chicago and its future arts leaders.”

The Joffrey’s South Loop location is the largest expansion of studio space since the opening of Joffrey Tower in 2008. The space totals 5,314 square feet, with fully equipped studios with sprung floors, harlequin surfaces, and professional-grade sound equipment. The space—which conforms with all American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements—also includes a reception desk and waiting area, as well as two large locker rooms and break room with an expansive foyer. There is nearby access to public parking and Chicago Transit Authority Green and Red Lines stops (within a two-block radius) and several CTA bus routes. Joffrey Tower (10 East Randolph Street) remains the company’s main headquarters.

With its new performance home at the Lyric Opera House, situated on the western edge of the downtown business district, the Joffrey’s new studio space in the South Loop completes an easily accessible and highly visible triangle of locations, expanding upon the Joffrey’s presence in the region over the last 25 years. More information on the opening of Joffrey in the South Loop can be found here.  

Abbott Academy Director Raymond Rodriguez outside the Joffrey studios in the South Loop neighborhood. 
A new crop of students begins their Joffrey journey. 
Joffrey Artist Olivia Duryea, Rodriguez, and Joffrey Artist Jeraldine Mendoza.