There is a line between dance and performance. River North Dance Chicago has managed to erase that line and blend the two together to create its own style of art.
River North began in 1989 with the goal of combining commercial dance with theatrical flair. Almost 25 years later, River North has become internationally known for its works involving renowned choreographers.
Artistic Director Frank Chaves handles River North’s business, marketing and touring schedule. Chaves also occasionally choreographs.
He also brings in multiple choreographers, such as Mauro Astofli and Nejla Yatkin, to create an experience for viewers. The goal of having multiple people involved in the planning of River North’s productions is to keep its material fresh. By rotating choreographers, no program is duplicated by another.
One of Chaves’ pieces, “Eva,” is a work based on the songs of late singer Eva Cassidy — notable for her cover of “Over the Rainbow.” The piece is divided into four sections, each representing a different song by Cassidy.
River North is largely funded by grants, according to ballet master Patrick Simoniello.
Simoniello said an entire program may take anywhere from four to six weeks to prepare.
The company is also known for its service to the dance community. River North holds multiple workshops each year to teach young, aspiring dancers how to better their craft.
“We want to give young people as many chances as we can to inspire and intrigue them about the arts,” Chaves said.
Interest in the arts is a “hard sell,” according to Chaves. By giving back to the community, Chaves hopes to spark interest and change lives through dance.
River North sets itself apart from other companies by developing sophisticated, yet bold performances. The works embody topics such as womanhood and culture. The company performs six or more pieces in one show, compared to the normal three or four performances that most dance companies put on.
“We love to knock down the fourth wall. The audience will feel River North,” Chaves said.
Auditioning to become a part of River North is not without its challenges.
The dance company holds two open auditions a year, one in Chicago and the other in New York. There could be more than 200 people auditioning for one spot in the company. At the end of the process, 12 dancers are selected.
“It is a hard decision for us because we need dancers who can do it all,” Chaves said.
Dancers are not known to make much money in their profession. The passion to dance overrides the financial worries most dancers encounter.
“The demand of time, dedication and physical ability in dance are only possible if a person’s heart is in it,” Chaves said.
Simoniello agreed with Chaves, saying what the dancers do is so important to them that money is not a thought. Although it is not easy, these artists are living their dreams as a part of River North.
Chaves said a River North Dance Chicago performance is definitely surprising for those in attendance. Many have a certain expectation of what dance is supposed to be, but the company takes things in another direction. Chaves said people are wary of dance because they fear they may not understand it. Similar to music, dance takes real-life experiences and places them in a forum to be expressed.
“There is incredible versatility and athleticism in our productions that are sure to entertain,” Simoniello said.
The group will come to the Manship Theatre in the Shaw Center for the Arts on Wednesday at 8 p.m. Discounted tickets are available for LSU students and faculty with proof of ID. Regular ticket prices begin at $18.50 and can be purchased online at manshiptheatre.org or by calling the ticket office at 1-866-451-2787.
“We love to knock down the fourth wall. The audience will feel River North.”

Gallery • 9 Photos

Taylor Balkom

Members of River North Dance Chicago perform bar exercises Monday, Feb. 10, 2014, in the Music and Dramatic Arts Building.