Dance Wed Mar 05 2008

Jazz, Not Jazz Hands

Forget the shimmying “jazz hands” you think of when you hear the words “jazz dance.” Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, whose mission is partly to create “an awareness of jazz dance as a true artistic expression of American life” know how it’s really done. They should: they’ve been around (and at home in Chicagoland) since 1962, and they’re still exploring new directions for this uniquely American movement. If the thought of over-smiling and splayed-fingered bubblegum dancing makes you queasy, and if the image of overly-serious and gazing-into-the-distance postmodern movement puts you to sleep, Giordano is directly up your alley. They’re always good for dance newbies and experts alike.

The music the company dances to is a testament to the claim that GJDC isn’t exactly what the layman might expect from a jazz dance company. They’re performing some of their repertory this weekend, which is set to music as widely varying as Japanese Kodo drums to Judy Garland. They will also be showing their new piece, "Moanin’ Low," which is set to Lena Horne, Miles Davis, and others. Jazz, yes, but not exactly “jazz hands” music.

Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8:00 at the Harris Theater in Millennium Park. Find more details in our Slowdown section or on GJDC’s website. Also note that they’re hosting a Young Professionals event before the show on Friday.

- Rachel