Our Story
This company is hotter than hot.
Chicago Sun-Times
River North Dance Chicago pulled out all the pyrotechnic stops. The performance left an indelible montage of high-octane body percussion, lush lines and evocative curves.
See Chicago Dance
Our Mission
River North Dance Chicago produces, promotes and presents dance, makes vital connections between dancers and the audience, creates partnerships and collaborations, assists in the professional development of dancers and choreographers, participates in cultural programming and advocates for dance and dance education.
About RNDC
Critically acclaimed for their athletic, sensual and dynamic repertoire River North Dance Chicago presents dynamic works that combine athletic prowess and artistic perspective with bold, theatrical flair. Founded in 1989, RNDC is now under the leadership of Artistic Director Frank Chaves and Executive Director Gail Kalver who strive to demonstrate depth and sophistication with a commitment to creating an accessible, enriching experience for audiences. The company continues to make a name for themselves on the world stage traveling throughout the country and internationally. Core works by Chaves are augmented with an array of pieces by renowned choreographers including Mauro Astolfi, Adam Barruch, Robert Battle, Sidra Bell, Ashley Roland and Nejla Yatkin, among others.
View the RNDC Timeline
1989
River North Dance Company founded by 4 dancers: Mark Dow, Karen Frankel Jones, Ronna Kaye and Julie Burman Kaplan
1990
Sherry Zunker appointed as Artistic Director
1993
Frank Chaves joined as Co-Artistic Director
1993
WTTW and HMS Media produced the first of three documentary films on RNDC, “Reality of a Dreamer,” which garnered two Midwest Emmy Awards.
1997
Summer Training Programs launched by former Company Member and current Workshop Director Sara Bibik.
2003
River North was the first dance company to perform at the world class Harris Theater for Music and Dance.
2008
Touring increases significantly, including the first international tour to Germany.
2009
WTTW aired its third TV special on RNDC titled “Every Dancer Has a Story” garnering a fourth Emmy.
2011
RNDC debuted at the Auditorium Theater of Roosevelt University, premiering Chaves’ Simply Miles, Simply Us as part of the Miles Davis Festival.
2012
Artistic Director Frank Chaves celebrated his 20th Anniversary with the Company, kicking off the season with a debut at the Pritzker Pavillion in Chicago’s Millennium Park.