Classic Jazz with Erin Barnett

Ruth Page Center for the Arts presents

Friday ,November06,2026-9:30 am

Event Description

Jazz

Class

90Running Time

Classic Jazz with Erin Barnett

November 6 | 9:30-11:00 A.M

November 13 | 9:30-11:00 A.M

Classic Jazz is an “old-school” jazz technique class rooted in rhythm, style, and precision. Dancers develop strong isolations, musicality, clean lines, dynamic movement quality, and advanced coordination through layered combinations that challenge the mind and body.

Erin Barnett’s dance journey began at Chicago’s legendary Mayfair Academy, a cultural beacon on the South Side, known for producing influential alumni—including former First Lady Michelle Obama. Erin made history as the first African American “Clara” in Ruth Page’s The Nutcracker at Arie Crown, a testament to her trailblazing spirit, which would become a defining theme throughout her career. As a proud member of the inaugural dance major class at Howard University, Erin graduated with her BFA in 1998. Her professional career spans over three decades, featuring world tours with Garth Fagan Dance, Philadanco! and teaching at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. Erin also performed in the original cast of The Lion King in Las

Vegas, gracing prestigious stages such as Dancing With the Stars, the Daytime Emmys,
and the Billboard Awards alongside Beyoncé. In 2022, Erin returned to the Lion King
(Rafiki Tour) for 3 months and was over the moon to fit into her original costumes!
After returning to Chicago, Erin brought her wealth of experience back to her hometown.