Founded in 2001, the University Ballet of Chicago seeks to provide classical ballet instruction and performance opportunities at the University of Chicago. University Ballet strives to create a supportive and inclusive environment, fostering the love and enjoyment of ballet for all of its members. Since its founding, the company has produced many classical and contemporary productions, showcasing the talents of undergraduates, graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, university employees, and Chicago community members.
University Ballet hosts free ballet classes on campus for the entire Chicago community. UBallet also offers the opportunity for members of the community to see and perform in full-length classical ballets: the company puts on two productions a year. All dancers with University affiliation who audition are cast in a role, regardless of previous experience. We make every effort to cast dancers without University affiliation and we encourage all interested dancers to audition.
Spring 2020 Class Update:
Due to the ongoing circumstances, UBallet's in-person classes have been temporarily suspended. We currently offer two weekly classes via Zoom--Level 1 on Saturdays from 4:30-5:30, and Level 2/3 on Thursdays from 6:30-7:30. We will also occasionally offer classes in other dance styles including Horton Technique, Floor Barre, Pilates. For zoom links, please join our email listhost or contact Head of Teaching, Sofia Boroday at sboroday@uchicago.edu. If you are unable to make class, we will post video recordings on our youtube channel. We will also post updates to class schedules and other news on our Facebook Page.
University Ballet generally hosts three open classes per week: Level I, II, and III. Classes are located either in the dance room in the basement of Ida Noyes Hall, located at 59th and Woodlawn in Hyde Park unless otherwise indicated. All classes are free and open to the public.
Level I is best suited for dancers with no ballet experience up to two years of training, Level II ballet is best suited for dancers with more than two years, and Level III ballet is best suited for dancers with five or more years of intense training. Classes are for dancers who are college-aged and older; children may not take class with UB. We occasionally make exceptions for experienced high schoolers, usually if they are considering attending UChicago for college. If you have any more questions about which level would be best for you, contact our Head of Teaching, Sofia Boroday, at sboroday@uchicago.edu