Dancing with Parkinson's

Dancing with Parkinson's is a partnership program between The Joffrey Ballet and Northwestern Medicine built for people with Parkinson's and their caregivers, friends, and family members.

This class offers a supportive space to explore the artistry of dance, ranging across the styles of ballet, jazz, modern, tap, and improvisation. In this class, we connect the mind to movement, inviting expression and exploration in where it may not have been before: moving the body in conjunction with others and with music, evoking creativity and connection. This program was built so everyone can experience the joy and freedom of dance, no matter age, status, or ability.

All of our teachers have completed at minimum an introductory training through Dance for PD®. Class focuses heavily on repetition, direct movement, and stability while exploring dance genres. The first half of class takes place seated, while the second half of class participants have the choice to stand; all movement has a seated demonstration, so everyone is able to participate the entire time. Classes are currently tuition-free.

Winter 2024 Session

Lake Forest

Location: Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Health & Fitness Center (1200 N Westmoreland Rd)
Date & Time Mondays at 11:30am-12:30pm from January 22nd-February 26th
Status: Registration is open, complete it here!

Spring 2024 Session

Lake Forest

Location: Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Health & Fitness Center (1200 N Westmoreland Rd)
Date & Time Mondays at 11:30am-12:30pm from March 4th-May 20th
Status: Registration is open, complete it here! Our current class capacity is 35 students. Registration will close and a waitlist will open if/when class reaches capacity.

South Loop

Location: The Joffrey Ballet South Loop Studios (1920 S Wabash Ave)
Date & Time: Thursdays at 11:30am-12:30pm from March 7th-May 23rd
Status: Registration is open, complete it here! Registration will close and a waitlist will open if/when class reaches capacity.