COMMUNITY Engagement

Illinois Youth Dance Theatre (IYDT) is a not for profit dance company committed to the art of dance. With budget cuts and the decline of arts education in public schools, it is more important than ever to share the unique power of the performing arts in a nurturing environment through professional instruction, viewing of guest artists, and the use of professional sets and costuming. With the goal to preserve the art form and the enduring impact it can have on children’s lives by way of community outreach and public performing.

IYDT’s Outreach Programs are the only one of its kind in the Northern and Western Chicago Illinois Suburbs, to bring the beauty of classical ballet and music to children each year. It is also one of the most affordable educational outreach programs in the region. Providing students with in introduction to a world of culture and tradition, which would otherwise be unavailable to them.

Goals of each Educational Outreach Program:

• Present the art of classical ballet
• Introduce music
• Teach theatre etiquette

In addition to the above, IYDT requires very little to make programs accessible to everyone. The main requirement is a large open space. Examples of such space would include: a gym, multi-purpose room, cafeteria, or a classroom with the chairs removed. IYDT is able to provide a sound system and TV with a DVD player (or something similar) if you cannot provide them, but requires a week’s notice.