Horton Technique with Erin Barnett
Friday, January 16, 2026
Time: 9:30-11 AM 
Location: Ruth Page Center for the Arts

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. 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.
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Join us at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts for Open Technique Classes with the Ruth Page Professional Dance Training Program*, on Fridays at 9:30 am. The class will feature rotating guest artists and Ruth Page School of Dance faculty. Method and technique will vary by teacher.

*Ruth Page Professional Dance Training Program (PDTP) serves as a bridge between studio training and a professional dance career. Dancers train and rehearse daily, 9 am – 4 pm, from August – June at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, focusing on refining ballet and contemporary technique in an international environment of performers, educators, and mentors. PDTP is designed for dancers between the ages of 17-25 who have completed high school and are preparing for a professional career. Trainees receive individualized coaching from accomplished faculty and curated international guest choreographers. The Ruth Page Professional Dance Training Program also offers international travel* (when available), limited need-based scholarships, and affordable housing. For further information about the Professional Dance Training Program (PDTP), reach out to the Artistic Associate, Maray Gutierrez, at pdtp@ruthpage.org