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.

Current Class Schedule

Fall 2023 Session One

Lake Forest

Location: Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Health & Fitness Center (1200 N Westmoreland Rd)
Date & Time: Mondays at 11:30am-12:30pm from September 11th-October 16th
Status: At capacity, head here to join the waitlist!

South Loop

Location: The Joffrey Ballet South Loop Studios (1920 S Wabash Ave)
Date & Time: Thursdays at 11am-12pm from September 14th- October 19th
Status: Spots still available, register here!
Live accompaniment provided by Mallory Baker and Lisa Krueger

Fall 2023 Session Two

Lake Forest

Location: Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Health & Fitness Center (1200 N Westmoreland Rd)
Date & Time: Mondays at 11:30am-12:30pm from October 30th- December 11th (no class running the Monday of Thanksgiving)
Status: Registration will open Wednesday, October 4th at 10am.

South Loop

Location: The Joffrey Ballet South Loop Studios (1920 S Wabash Ave)
Date & Time: Thursdays at 11am-12pm from November 2nd- December 14th (no class running on Thanksgiving Day)
Status: Registration will open on Wednesday, October 1st at 10am
Live accompaniment provided by Mallory Baker and Lisa Krueger