Philip & Marsha Dowd
.png){kind=logo}
Rhythm World 2025 Features 3 Unique Performances at an Iconic Chicago Venue . . .
America’s oldest and most comprehensive festival of tap celebrates its 35th Anniversary with a week of rhythm bending concerts and classes by a host of veteran and next generation artists.
Classes will take place at Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building on the 3rd floor in the Annex, Studio 300 at 410 S. Michigan Avenue with concerts at the Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building. For more information or assistance registering, email registration@chicagotap.org
Due to the recent NEA Notification of Termination and freeze on all funding commitments from the NEA —we have had to make the difficult decision to cancel all programming originally scheduled for July 9–13, 2025. This includes the concerts on July 9 (Jazz Showcase) and July 13 (DuSable Museum) as well as the masterclasses July 11–13 (Fine Arts Building).
Rhythm World 35 concerts and classes between July 15–20, 2025 will continue as originally planned.
While we’re disappointed to make this change, we’re thrilled to still bring you a dynamic week of programming filled with special courses, masterclasses, choreographic residencies, and two incredible performances with many of the best teaching and performing artists in the world.
Student Showcase at The Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Tuesday, July 15, at 7:00 PM FREE
Often an audience favorite! Enjoy young artists from around the world as they share their rhythms, passion and in many cases, blistering technical prowess. Previous performers included MacArthur “Genius” Michelle Dorrance, Jazz at Lincoln Center soloist, Jared Grimes and CHRP’s Artistic Director Jumaane Taylor. The Student Showcase is a window into the future of tap!
2025 Performances
The Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Friday, July 18, at 7:00 PM FREE
“Hoofing” rules at the Rhythm World grand finale . . . showcasing generations of virtuosos, fresh rhythms from every corner of the country and the world premiere of Sarah Savelli’s “Fly Me to the Moon”- a one act tribute to the late great Oscar Peterson. Explosive soloists, accompanied by the Eric Hochberg Trio will include Christina Carminucci, Derick Grant, Anthony Morigerato, Karissa Royster, Jumaane Taylor, Sam Weber and Cartier Williams. Witness these soloists represent the best in tap dance exemplifying respect and progression in the art form’s traditions.
Gala! JUBALEE at the Studebaker Theatre in the Fine Arts Building
Wednesday, July 16, at 5:30 PM
Join us for Rhythm World’s 35th Anniversary Gala JUBALEE featuring performances by Derick Grant, Dianne “Lady Di” Walker, Sam Weber, Demi Remick and more. This annual fundraiser will honor Jumaane Taylor, Nora Daley and Alderman Michelle Harris for their Exceptional Contributions to Performance, Arts Education and Community. The evening will also feature delectable pre- and post-performance receptions with proceeds supporting the Mayfair Arts Center and Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s acclaimed arts education program - We All Got Rhythm!
2025 Artists
2025 Rhythm World Registration
NOW OPEN!
Classes will take place at Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building in the Annex
%20(1).png)
Hotel Accommodations
If you're looking to mix things up, ACME is the right choice for you. Located 2 ½ blocks from the Magnificent Mile in the River North neighborhood, ACME is downtown Chicago's lifestyle hotel alternative for the tragically hip. If you appreciate an eye for design and dig a high-tech vibe, you'll feel right at home in this trend-setting, but invitingly approachable hotel. NOTE: You must be 21+ to make a reservation, or otherwise need a chaperone
Click the button below to take advantage of the Rhythm World 35 discounted rates!
STUDENT SHOWCASE
Chicago Human Rhythm Project invites you to share your work onstage during one of the most anticipated events of the festival—the Student Showcase on Tuesday, July 15 at 7:00 PM. Whether you have a solo, small group, or full ensemble piece, this is your chance to perform for an enthusiastic audience as we celebrate the next generation of tap talent.
PLEASE NOTE: We want to include as many performers as possible in this showcase so there will be a VERY limited number of solos presented. Group works are encouraged when possible.
Submissions must be no longer than 3 minutes for solos/duos, 5 minutes for small groups (3 - 7) and 7 minutes for large groups (8+).
If selected, performers will be required to attend a scheduled technical rehearsal (details forthcoming). PLEASE NOTE: the performance is FREE, but tickets must be reserved in advance—CHRP cannot hold tickets for performers or guests. Ticket reservations must be made through the Fine Arts Building event calendar.
Submit your piece by completing this form. For assistance, questions, or concerns please email registration@chicagotap.org .
-
How do I determine what level is appropriate for me or my child?The best way to determine the appropriate level for you or your child/teen/dancer is to ask their instructor, who is most familiar with their abilities. If their teacher is unfamiliar with our program and/or instructors, we can better determine an appropriate level if you provide a video link which shows you or your child/teen/student dancing in which the feet can be CLEARLY heard. You can send video links to registration@chicagotap.org.
-
What are the age restrictions for the programs?While there are no strict age restrictions for most programs, some things to consider are whether you or your child/teen is at the appropriate skill and maturity level for the chosen classes. Maturity and skill level are not always determined by age, but students must be able to function in a highly focused learning environment. We can help to place students in the appropriate program/level by viewing clear videos in which the feet can be clearly heard. More specific questions and video links can be sent to registration@chicagotap.org
-
I have no experience with tap dancing. Can I take beginner-level classes?Unfortunately, there are no classes offered at Rhythm World for absolute beginners. There are a few advanced beginner classes for those with some tap experience. Beginner level classes are offered year-round at the Mayfair Arts Center and Fine Arts Building.
-
Can I register for classes at the festival? Or should I register in advance?You may register at the festival for any classes that still have openings. However, CHRP does not guarantee that you will be able to get a spot in your preferred classes if you register at the festival. We highly recommend you register in advance.
-
Can I video the class?No, videos are not allowed. You must ask permission of the instructor if you wish to make a video AFTER class. Videos are NOT permitted under any circumstance DURING classes.
-
Are there any discounts?There is a 5% discount for groups of 5-9 dancers; 10% for groups of 10 - 14 dancers; 15% for groups of 15 - 19 dancers; and, 20% for groups of 20+ dancers. Please contact Victoria Andrus, Rhythm World Manager, at registration@chicagotap.org for more information about how to register a group and receive a discount.
-
What is the cancellation policy?Students may cancel their registration by June 14 to receive a refund minus a $75.00 cancellation fee + the $35.00 registration fee. Unfortunately, refunds will not be issued after this date for any reason.
-
What if the class I want is full?If classes are full, you can be placed on a wait list for the classes you wish to take. CHRP will notify you if a spot opens up in your desired class.
-
What if my class is cancelled?CHRP reserves the right to cancel any class before the start of the festival, due to low enrollment. If your class is cancelled, we will notify you right away and you will have an option of moving to a different class, a tuition credit to be used at another program or a full refund.
-
How can I help/volunteer at Rhythm World?Please call the CHRP office at 312-542-2477 to learn more about volunteer opportunities at Rhythm World.