In 1985, Artistic Director and Emmy Award-nominated choreographer, Venetia Stifler, created the critically acclaimed The Chicago Project. Her goal in 2017 was to reimagine this favorite dance using today’s technology, and with the eyes of a choreographer who’s creative process and point of view have evolved. The premiere of The Chicago Project: Future Present explores the human kinesthetic and emotional relationship to the form, texture, materials and design of architecture, especially Chicago architecture, including accompanying images created by visual artist Frank Vodvarka.
The Chicago Project: Future Present celebrates the genius of Chicago architecture through movement, image and sound. Using Louis Sullivan’s system of Architectural Ornament as a starting point the work explores some of Chicago’s most iconic environments. Stifler received a City Arts Independent Artist grant award from the City of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events for this ongoing and now complete project.
The performance includes a half hour presentation by Dr. Cynthia Vranas Olsen, Ph.D. regarding the influence of dance on the design of the Palais Garnier in 19th Century Paris followed by the half hour presentation of The Chicago Project: Future Present. The performance and lecture are free and open to the public. Parking is free throughout the IIT campus, with the closest lots being D1, D2 and D5. For more information on CDI, please visit www.ruthpage.org. No reservations are needed to attend this lecture and performance.
