2026 Official Donation Form

Synapse Arts Collective

Synapse Arts creates, performs, and educates to nurture individual identities and challenge social norms by engaging artists and audiences in the making of performing arts.

Drop-in with us every Tuesday&nbsp;for a special summer edition of Latin Social Dances on the beach! Partnering with Blue Jay Cafe at Loyola Park, join us July 7th through August 25th at 6:00 pm for an open-level, beginner-friendly Latin American social dance class presented by Synapse Arts.&nbsp; Featuring rotating styles such as merengue, salsa, cumbia, bachata, and more, this 18+ class requires no partner or prior experience. There is room to be new as we sweat, connect, and build community through vibrant social dance traditions. Taught by Camila Rivero Pooley (bilingual) Wayfinding<a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bpVqouUuQRaJXIf7AwOIhCeQZof5uhiYPJsROQsaqug/edit?tab=t.0" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Loyola Park Access and Location</a>

2026 Latin Social Dances

&Uacute;nete a la nueva edici&oacute;n de Danzas Sociales Latinas en la playa. Una clase dedicada a explorar la gran variedad de bailes sociales de Latinoam&eacute;rica.

Danzas Sociales Latinas

Looking for some welcoming movement this summer? This is your chance to dance! Join Chicago&rsquo;s inclusive community for dancers with and without disabilities.&nbsp; Learn from our experienced teachers and create a weekend that fits your body, mind, schedule, and interests. This lab will include classes on creative movement, contemporary technique, choreographic practice, and improvisational skills. This is a great opportunity to move in community while choosing your level of challenge.&nbsp; No matter your age or skill level, we have an offering for you! Sunday morning, join us for a 12 and under creative movement class. Adult movers, select to join an individual workshop (morning or afternoon) or join us for the full lab on Saturday and Sunday. At the end of the weekend, we will have an improvisation jam in the park! Those who are registered in the final workshop can participate, but all are welcomed to come watch!&nbsp; Loyola Park Access and Location finding information available<a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bpVqouUuQRaJXIf7AwOIhCeQZof5uhiYPJsROQsaqug/edit?usp=sharing" id="isPasted" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">&nbsp;here.</a> Please contact unfoldingdisabilityfutures@gmail.com with any questions about accommodations and access. A special thank you to <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.smackdabchicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Smack Dab</a> for donating coffee and doughnuts!

Inclusive Dance Lab

Thank you for joining us at New Works 2026 at Berger Park Cultural Center!This ticket page is for SUNDAY, JUNE 28 at 2:00 pm, with both projects. American Sign Language (ASL) Interpretation will be available.<p dir="ltr" fr-original-style="line-height:1.38;background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin: 0pt 0px; width: 100%; box-sizing: inherit; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> It is important to note that the performances are different each day:Thursday 06/25 - &ldquo;preview&rdquo; night for both projectsFriday 06/26 - Qū Ji&eacute; 曲洁&nbsp;Saturday 06/27 - Christine Shallenberg/Aurora Tabar ONLYSunday 06/28 - both projects, *ASL provided<p dir="ltr" fr-original-style="line-height:1.38;background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin: 0pt 0px; width: 100%; box-sizing: inherit; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> To keep our ticket structure inclusive of the many intersectional identities we support, we offer various options. There will be a limited number of pay-what-you-can (PWYC)&nbsp;walk-up tickets, in person at the door only (cash or card); however, these are not guaranteed. Please select tickets that best suit your needs.&nbsp;

New Works 2026 - Sunday, 06/28

Thank you for joining us at New Works 2026 at Berger Park Cultural Center!This ticket page is for SATURDAY, JUNE 27 at 2:00 pm, with Aurora Tabar and Christine Shallenberg&rsquo;s project ONLY.<p dir="ltr" fr-original-style="line-height:1.38;background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin: 0pt 0px; width: 100%; box-sizing: inherit; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> It is important to note that the performances are different each day:Thursday 06/25 - &ldquo;preview&rdquo; night for both projectsFriday 06/26 - Qū Ji&eacute; 曲洁 ONLYSaturday 06/27 - Christine Shallenberg/Aurora Tabar ONLYSunday 06/28 - both projects, *ASL provided<p dir="ltr" fr-original-style="line-height:1.38;background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin: 0pt 0px; width: 100%; box-sizing: inherit; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> To keep our ticket structure inclusive of the many intersectional identities we support, we offer various options. There will be a limited number of pay-what-you-can (PWYC)&nbsp;walk-up tickets, in person at the door only (cash or card); however, these are not guaranteed. Please select tickets that best suit your needs.&nbsp;

New Works 2026 - Saturday, 06/27

Thank you for joining us at New Works 2026 at Berger Park Cultural Center!This ticket page is for FRIDAY JUNE 26 at 7:00 pm, with Qū Ji&eacute;&#39;s 曲洁 &nbsp;project ONLY.<p dir="ltr" fr-original-style="line-height:1.38;background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin: 0pt 0px; width: 100%; box-sizing: inherit; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> It is important to note that the performances are different each day:Thursday 06/25 - &ldquo;preview&rdquo; night for both projectsFriday 06/26 - Qū Ji&eacute; 曲洁 ONLYSaturday 06/27 - Christine Shallenberg/Aurora Tabar ONLYSunday 06/28 - both projects, *ASL provided<p dir="ltr" fr-original-style="line-height:1.38;background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin: 0pt 0px; width: 100%; box-sizing: inherit; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> To keep our ticket structure inclusive of the many intersectional identities we support, we offer various options. There will be a limited number of pay-what-you-can (PWYC)&nbsp;walk-up tickets, in person at the door only (cash or card); however, these are not guaranteed. Please select tickets that best suit your needs.&nbsp;

New Works 2026 - Friday, 06/26

Thank you for joining us at New Works 2026 at Berger Park Cultural Center!This ticket page is for THURSDAY, JUNE 25 at 7:00 pm, the &quot;preview&quot; night for both projects.<p dir="ltr" fr-original-style="line-height:1.38;background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin: 0pt 0px; width: 100%; box-sizing: inherit; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> It is important to note that the performances are different each day:Thursday 06/25 - &ldquo;preview&rdquo; night for both projectsFriday 06/26 - Qū Ji&eacute; 曲洁 ONLYSaturday 06/27 - Christine Shallenberg/Aurora Tabar ONLYSunday 06/28 - both projects, *ASL provided<p dir="ltr" fr-original-style="line-height:1.38;background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin: 0pt 0px; width: 100%; box-sizing: inherit; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> To keep our ticket structure inclusive of the many intersectional identities we support, we offer various options. There will be a limited number of pay-what-you-can (PWYC) walk-up tickets, in person at the door only (cash or card); however, these are not guaranteed. Please select tickets that best suit your needs.&nbsp;

New Works 2026 - Thursday, 06/25

Space for careSpace to connectSpace for _________Space to learn You&rsquo;re invited to participate, promenade, share, contribute, be generous in offering and asking, and be curious with our 2026 cohort of artists + mentors at the New Works 2026 Works In Progress Showing. This event is free - register to save your spot. All ages are very welcome - we have a &quot;come and go as you please&quot; approach. Stroller parking space will be available.&nbsp; Coffee and tea will be provided, with coffee donated by local Metropolis Coffee Company. Schedule:&nbsp;all times approximate12:00 pm doors open for North Mansion12:00 to 12:45 pm Christine Shallenberg and Aurora Tabar showing and artist conversation12:45 to 1:00 pm transition to other building1:00 to 1:45 pm Qū Ji&eacute; 曲洁 showing and artist conversation2:00 pm end of event Wayfinding<a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZT23SuszHbVqSNnEexo-cPEPL5eVVTfAQ9B7bHWhwWk/edit?tab=t.0" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Berger Park Cultural Center Access and Location</a>Both buildings have ramped access points.&nbsp;There will be additional space for strollers to be stored. A quiet room for breaks, caregiving (such as breastfeeding), and sensory care will be provided.&nbsp; ADA trained service animals are welcomed and our staff is trained to accommodate service animals and their handlers.&nbsp; Masks are encouraged and will be provided. Per Park District policy, we cannot require everyone to wear a mask, we can only recommend it.

New Works 2026 Works In Progress Showing

Join us for an evening of fresh works by Synapse Arts and Unfolding Disability Futures at the beautifully rehabbed and fully accessible Clarendon Community Center Park gallery!Doors and installation open 6pmPerformances 6:30-7:30pm Two projects will be shown on this shared evening, stemming from U.D.F. and Synapse Arts&#39; inclusive dance partnership.&nbsp; Damon&#39;s heartfelt performance project In Andrea&#39;s Shoes&nbsp;is a dance-theater tribute to her lifelong friend, told through Damon&rsquo;s perspective and created in collaboration with the Halverson family.&nbsp; Dancers from Unfolding Disability Futures will perform improvisational scores curated by Sydney Erlikh, drawn from her work abroad. These scores focus on community and collaboration, and invite the audience to consider what moving together offers to the self and to others.&nbsp; Coexisting with the special performance on Tuesday December 9, 2025,&nbsp;Damon is creating a textile installation that invites anyone to contribute a message to or about Andrea Grace Halverson, or to express thoughts on loss and connection. Reflecting on friendship and remembrance, this art piece will be on display at Clarendon Park. The installation is free and open to all in person, with the option to contribute online.Add your message to the installation as part of the RSVP process - a question will ask you to add your note as you complete your checkout.&nbsp; &mdash; In addition to the in-person program, this event will be live-streamed by the Chicago Dance History Project. A ticket is required to access the live-streamed performances from 6:30 to 7:30 PM (CDT)&nbsp;&mdash; reserve yours now to witness this moving tribute and powerful artistic dialogue. The performance is all ages appropriate - there is no swearing, nudity, or scary moments. Themes around death are referenced abstractly and with love. The livestream video will be available for on-demand viewing soon after the December 9 event. Everyone who purchases a ticket for the livestream will receive the link to the video recording at no additional cost. FAQ&#39;s are available at this link: <a data-fr-linked="true" fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/176LFs7AeAV9UeQWpgjlx0CG36ZAgAq88HZcr7kIMKEw/edit?usp=sharing" id="isPasted" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/document/d/176LFs7AeAV9UeQWpgjlx0CG36ZAgAq88HZcr7kIMKEw/edit?usp=sharing</a>&nbsp;Wayfinding info available at this link: <a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XdBRq9YGIk5lJLGqiQ0YrYTzR2m6cDz4-XEKTHLqPv4/edit?usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XdBRq9YGIk5lJLGqiQ0YrYTzR2m6cDz4-XEKTHLqPv4/edit?usp=sharing</a> All tax-deductible donations go toward our inclusive dance programming, co-taught and co-presented by Synapse Arts and Unfolding Disability Futures.

In Andrea’s Shoes

Have a kiddo who loves to dance and perform?&nbsp;Encourage their confidence and continue their performance education with the Synapse Arts Student Performance Troupe!&nbsp; Join us on September 16th at 5pm for Try Out Together Day at Loyola Park to check out the Troupe and see if it is a good fit for your child! This day is designed for students to try and see if they are interested as well as for our instructors to evaluate a student&rsquo;s readiness.&nbsp; What is the Student Performance Troupe?Our Student Performance Troupe is for 6-9 year old children with basic dance experience who want to learn what it means to be a performer. Through this process, dancers learn how to work as a group, build confidence, and express themselves through performance. Where do you perform?We emphasize giving younger children exposure to dance with high quality community performance opportunities that go beyond a traditional recital format. Our dancers have the opportunity to perform at community events in the Rogers Park area such as the Loyola Park Halloween Dance and the Pottowattomie Park Bunny Bonanza Brunch.&nbsp; <a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wq_5ah17JnYQOy1JoTtOPvsL8DMmK7mr_9ybeghEXTI/edit?usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Find out more about SPT here.&nbsp;</a> 2025-26 TROUPE SEASON SCHEDULEFALL REHEARSALS: Tuesdays 5-6pm at Loyola Park Fieldhouse Sky Room, Sept 16-Nov 25 FALL PERFORMANCES:&nbsp;<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Loyola Park Halloween dance (date TBD but likely the Saturday prior to Halloween)</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Winter showcase November 25th in the evening</li></ul> SPRING REHEARSALS: Tuesdays 5-6pm at Loyola Park Fieldhouse Sky Room, Jan 6- Apr 14 SPRING PERFORMANCES:<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">LPAC Black History Month event (date TBD but likely a Saturday or Sunday at the end of Feb)</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Pottowattomie Park Bunny Brunch Bonanza (date TBD but likely Saturday mid April)</li></ul>

Try Out Together Day for the Student Performance Troupe

Integrated dance for people with and without disabilities, led by renowned educator <a href="https://fullradiusdance.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color:initial;box-sizing:inherit;-webkit-user-select:auto" target="_blank">Douglas Scott</a> (Atlanta, GA). Friday, July 25: check-in 3:30, 4:00 - 6:30 pm Community Workshop on Integrated Dance at the University of Illinois Chicago (1640 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL) A workshop introducing Integrated Dance fundamentals for dancers, choreographers, and teachers. ASL and CART are provided.Saturday, July 26 through Tuesday, July 29: Integrated Dance Intensive at Loyola Park (1230 W Greenleaf Ave, Chicago, IL). Teaching the Full Radius method of Integrated dance for performers and directors.*Saturday, July 26: check-in 11:30 am, 12:00 - 4:30 pm.*Sunday, July 27: 11:30 am - 4:30 pm.*Monday, July 28 & Tuesday, July 29: 4:30 - 8:30 pm.Wednesday, July 30: check-in 8:30 am, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Teacher Training on Integrated Dance at The Dance Center of Columbia College (1306 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL). An accredited teacher training for Integrated Dance education techniques. CPDUs: Educators can register for 6 continuing education credits for the teacher training at the event. Co-presented by <a href="https://www.unfoldingdisabilityfutures.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color:initial;box-sizing:inherit;-webkit-user-select:auto" target="_blank">Unfolding Disability Futures</a> and <a href="http://synapsearts.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color:initial;box-sizing:inherit;-webkit-user-select:auto" target="_blank">Synapse Arts</a>. Access info:<a href="https://www.unfoldingdisabilityfutures.com/full-radius-training-series-access-info#h.cjz7497j8875" rel="noopener noreferrer noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color:initial;-webkit-user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit" target="_blank">https://www.unfoldingdisabilityfutures.com/full-radius-training-series-access-info#h.cjz7497j8875</a> Additional accommodations, including ASL and Captioning, can be requested by contacting <a href="mailto:info@synapsearts.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color:initial;box-sizing:inherit;-webkit-user-select:auto" target="_blank">info@synapsearts.com</a>.

Full Radius Midwest Dance Training Series

New Works 2025&nbsp;Saturday, June 7, 2025Starting at 1:00 pmAt Lincoln Park Cultural Center, 2045 N. Lincoln Park West, Chicago Enjoy dance projects by KIKI King, Amanda Maraist, and Camila Rivero Pooley in a shared event that flows between outdoor and indoor spaces. All spaces are fully accessible and <a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/10s9zdECdYS8IaMpwUdiJE-X_lbL4PH9hzkzR5el7Bww/edit?usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">wayfinding details are here</a>.&nbsp; Help us raise $2k to support the New Works program!Donating in addition to my free registration supports this important artist incubator for underrepresented dancemakers.&nbsp; Together, we can uplift artists. Your support provides important support such as:&nbsp; &nbsp;$1,000 - pays one New Works artist&nbsp; &nbsp;$500 - provides one artist mentor&nbsp; &nbsp;$250 - equips ASL interpretation&nbsp; &nbsp;$100 - provides professional photos for the artist&#39;s portfolios&nbsp; &nbsp;$50 - contributes an hour of free rehearsal space&nbsp; &nbsp;$25 - subsidizes one free in-person ticket&nbsp; &nbsp;$10 - buys a batch of plates and plasticware for the cookout BYOF - bring your own food! KIKI&rsquo;s work revolves around the joys of a cookout. The grill will be on starting at 1:00 pm for shared use for audience members who choose to bring their own food, supervised by Lincoln Park staff. We will have tables and basic supplies such as extra plates, napkins, cups, and plasticware available for all. (Please note that we will not be providing food for audience members). <span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 700; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">Event Schedule&nbsp;<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">1pm - the grill is on!&nbsp;<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">bring your own grub, grill masters will be on hand to help <span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">1:05 pm -&nbsp;<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:italic;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">FOLK<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">&nbsp;by Amanda in the auditorium<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">(limited seating! arrive early) <span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">1:45pm - audience transition <span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">1:55pm -&nbsp;<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:italic;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">cooking something out<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">&nbsp;by KIKI on the front lawn <span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">2:30pm - audience transition <span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">2:40pm -&nbsp;<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:italic;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">MATADORA<span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">&nbsp;by Camila in the auditorium <span fr-original-style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; box-sizing: inherit;">3pm - end of event New Works is an annual program by Synapse Arts which is made possible by support from The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Arts &amp; Culture program and many generous individuals like you!

New Works 2025

Nuevas Obras 2025&nbsp;S&aacute;bado, 7 de junio de 2025Comenzando a la 1:00 pmEn el Centro Cultural Lincoln Park, 2045 N. Lincoln Park West, Chicago Disfruta de proyectos de danza de KIKI King, Amanda Maraist y Camila Rivero Pooley en un evento compartido que fluye entre espacios al aire libre e interiores. Todos los espacios son completamente accesibles y <a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/10s9zdECdYS8IaMpwUdiJE-X_lbL4PH9hzkzR5el7Bww/edit?usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">aqu&iacute; est&aacute;n los detalles de orientaci&oacute;n</a>.&nbsp; &iexcl;Ay&uacute;danos a recaudar $2,000 para apoyar el programa Nuevas Obras!Donar adem&aacute;s de mi registro gratuito apoya este importante incubador de artistas para creadores de danza subrepresentados.&nbsp; Juntos, podemos elevar a los artistas. Tu apoyo proporciona un apoyo importante como:&nbsp; &nbsp;$1,000 - paga a un artista de Nuevas Obras&nbsp; &nbsp;$500 - proporciona un mentor para un artista&nbsp; &nbsp;$250 - proporciona interpretaci&oacute;n en lengua de se&ntilde;as&nbsp; &nbsp;$100 - proporciona fotos profesionales para los portafolios de los artistas&nbsp; &nbsp;$50 - contribuye a una hora de espacio de ensayo gratuito&nbsp; &nbsp;$25 - subsidia una entrada gratuita en persona&nbsp; &nbsp;$10 - compra un lote de platos y art&iacute;culos de pl&aacute;stico para la parrillada BYOF - &iexcl;trae tu propia comida! El trabajo de KIKI gira en torno a las alegr&iacute;as de una parrillada. La parrilla estar&aacute; lista a partir de la 1:00 pm para su uso compartido por parte de los asistentes que decidan traer su propia comida, supervisado por el personal de Lincoln Park. Tendremos mesas y suministros b&aacute;sicos como platos extra, servilletas, vasos y art&iacute;culos de pl&aacute;stico disponibles para todos. (Tenga en cuenta que no proporcionaremos comida para los asistentes). Nuevas Obras es un programa anual de Synapse Arts que es posible gracias al apoyo del Programa de Artes y Cultura de la Fundaci&oacute;n Richard H. Driehaus y muchas personas generosas como t&uacute;.

Nuevas Obras 2025

Give everyone access to the arts. Why does art matter?Communities without public art are more disconnected with fewer social support networks. Audiences need art that is accessible across a wide spectrum of income and ability levels so that all members of the community can participate. Why dance for all?Dance is a unique part of the cultural and social fabric of our society:<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;">it integrates physical and mental health&nbsp;</li><li fr-original-style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;">it builds creativity and resilience</li><li fr-original-style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;">it provides a space for people of all backgrounds to connect</li><li fr-original-style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;">it fosters a sense of belonging and reduces social isolation</li></ul> Dance for all ages, identities, and income levels.Your support will provide:<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;">Quality Dance Education: We provide affordable dance classes to children and adults at Loyola Park, Berger Park Cultural Center, Clarendon Community Center Park, and Lincoln Park Cultural Center.</li><li fr-original-style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;">Professional Development: Our New Works program sponsors underrepresented choreographers, focusing on supporting women, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC artists. We connect artists to share resources and develop their voices, fostering agents of change in the cultural economy of our city, nation, and world.</li><li fr-original-style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;">Quality Live Works: We support the development of new artistic works by focusing on support for artists themselves. We pay artists fair wages and value process over product so that our artists can do their best work and create high-quality performances. &nbsp;</li><li fr-original-style="box-sizing:inherit;" style="box-sizing:inherit;">Uplift the Art Community: We bring free performances to accessible spaces and work to provide art that is accessible across a wide spectrum of income and ability levels so that all members of the community can participate.</li></ul>

Give everyone access to the arts.Why does art matter?Communities without public art are more disconnected with fewer social support networks. Audiences need art that is accessible across a wide spectrum of income and ability levels so that all members of the community can participate.Why dance for all?Dance is a unique part of the cultural and social fabric of our society:it integrates physical and mental health it builds creativity and resilienceit provides a space for people of all backgrounds to connectit fosters a sense of belonging and reduces social isolationDance for all ages, identities, and income levels.Your support will provide:Quality Dance Education: We provide affordable dance classes to children and adults at Loyola Park, Berger Park Cultural Center, Clarendon Community Center Park, and Lincoln Park Cultural Center.Professional Development: Our New Works program sponsors underrepresented choreographers, focusing on supporting women, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC artists. We connect artists to share resources and develop their voices, fostering agents of change in the cultural economy of our city, nation, and world.Quality Live Works: We support the development of new artistic works by focusing on support for artists themselves. We pay artists fair wages and value process over product so that our artists can do their best work and create high-quality performances. Uplift the Art Community: We bring free performances to accessible spaces and work to provide art that is accessible across a wide spectrum of income and ability levels so that all members of the community can participate.

Much&iacute;simas gracias for donating and being part of this myth ⚔️ I&#39;m incredibly grateful and excited that the universe has heard my plegarias: MATADORA makes its world premiere on September 24 at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago. The production is in its crucial final stages. Donating today supports production of the special effects you&rsquo;ll see in the live performance, and, most importantly, allows me to pay more artists for their time and talents on and off stage. Thank you for supporting the artists bringing MATADORA to life! See you on opening night,INS&Eacute;KTA

Muchísimas gracias for donating and being part of this myth ⚔️I'm incredibly grateful and excited that the universe has heard my plegarias: MATADORA makes its world premiere on September 24 at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago.The production is in its crucial final stages. Donating today supports production of the special effects you’ll see in the live performance, and, most importantly, allows me to pay more artists for their time and talents on and off stage.Thank you for supporting the artists bringing MATADORA to life!See you on opening night,INSÉKTA

MATADORA: ¡Conviértete en un creador de mitos con nosotros!

Much&iacute;simas gracias for donating and being part of this myth ⚔️ I am incredibly grateful and excited that the universe has heard my plegarias: MATADORA makes its world premiere on September 24 at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago. The production is in its crucial final stages. Donating today supports production of the special effects you&rsquo;ll see in the live performance, and, most importantly, allows me to pay more artists for their time and talents on and off stage. Thank you for supporting the artists bringing MATADORA to life! See you on opening night,INS&Eacute;KTA All donations are tax deductible.MATADORA is fiscally sponsored by Synapse Arts, a 501c3 organization.

Muchísimas gracias for donating and being part of this myth ⚔️I am incredibly grateful and excited that the universe has heard my plegarias: MATADORA makes its world premiere on September 24 at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago.The production is in its crucial final stages. Donating today supports production of the special effects you’ll see in the live performance, and, most importantly, allows me to pay more artists for their time and talents on and off stage.Thank you for supporting the artists bringing MATADORA to life!See you on opening night,INSÉKTAAll donations are tax deductible.MATADORA is fiscally sponsored by Synapse Arts, a 501c3 organization.

MATADORA: Become a mythmaker with us!

Inclusive Dance with Unfolding Disability Futures (Hybrid)Wednesdays 6:30pm - 8:00pmHYBRID virtual or in person at Clarendon Community Center Park, 4501 N Clarendon Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 Winter/Spring session: January 14 - May 13 (no class March 25) (18 weeks)&nbsp;Fall Session: September 9 - &nbsp;December 9 (no class Nov 11 or 25) (12 weeks) This Inclusive Dance class is a community-led gathering of movers of all kinds. Each session, different facilitators and guest artists lead the group through an exploration of dancemaking tools, dance techniques, and improvisational exercises from ballet to modern. The goal of our workshops is to intentionally build a dance space grounded in disability culture, where bodies and minds of all types feel welcomed and valued.Co-taught by Synapse Arts and Unfolding Disability Futures.&nbsp; Once you have registered for class, you will receive a link to join the class virtually; you are welcome to come in person or attend virtually for any class.&nbsp; Regular prices$10 per class to drop in - drop in to your first class for FREE!$135 for Winter/Spring session (18 weeks), $90 for Fall session (12 weeks) Discounted pricesThese prices are subsidized and intended for anyone who needs a discounted rate. We do not ask for any proof or explanation.&nbsp;$3 per class to drop in$50 for Winter/Spring session (18 weeks)$35 for Fall session (12 weeks) Teacher Schedule - Fall Session:9/9 Lauren &amp; Damon9/16 Lauren9/23 Stefanie &amp; Jamila9/30 Sydney &amp; Michelle10/7 Sydney &amp; Jamila&nbsp;10/14 Sydney &amp; Jamila10/21 Stefanie &amp; Jamila10/28 Lauren &amp; Michelle11/4 Stefanie &amp; Michelle11/18 Maggie &amp; Michelle12/2 Maggie &amp; Damon12/9 Maggie &amp; Michelle --Health, safety, and access:Social distancing and mask wearing is highly encouraged. Masks will be provided. All workshops will be held hybrid via Zoom. AI captioning will be available for all workshops. We kindly ask you to send us your request for ASL at least 3 weeks in advance by emailing <a fr-original-style="" href="mailto:jyoung@accessliving.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">jyoung@accessliving.org</a>. In-person classes take place in the Clarendon Park Dance Room (2nd floor, accessible via elevator). Wayfinding information here: <a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XdBRq9YGIk5lJLGqiQ0YrYTzR2m6cDz4-XEKTHLqPv4/edit?usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Clarendon Community Center Park Wayfinding</a> For additional access service requests or onsite accessibility assistance, please contact UnfoldingDisabilityFutures@gmail.com or text the Synapse access request line at 947-2CREATE (947-227-3283) in advance.&nbsp;<div fr-original-style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; line-height: 1.5; box-sizing: inherit;"> </div>--ASL services for the Inclusive Dance Workshop Series are supported by Unfolding Disability Futures&#39; artist residency with the Art &amp; Culture Project at Access Living of Metro Chicago. This event is brought to you by the Arts and Culture Project at Access Living, an independent living center for people with disabilities, and Bodies of Work: Network of Disability Art and Culture. Bodies of Work is a part of the Department of Disability and Human Development within the College of Applied Health Sciences at the University of Illinois-Chicago. The contents of this workshop were developed under a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR grant number 90RTCP0005). NIDILRR is a Center within the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents of this workshop do not necessarily represent the policy of NIDILRR, ACL, or HHS, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

2026 Inclusive Dance

Drop in with us every Thursday, October 1st through December 10th (no class 11/26) for $10 at 6:00 pm at Berger Park Cultural Center for an open-level, beginner-friendly Latin American social dance class presented by Synapse Arts.&nbsp; Featuring rotating styles such as merengue, salsa, cumbia, bachata, and more, this 18+ class requires no partner or prior experience. There is room to be new as we sweat, connect, and build community through vibrant social dance traditions. Taught by Camila Rivero Pooley (bilingual) Wayfinding<a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1ZT23SuszHbVqSNnEexo-cPEPL5eVVTfAQ9B7bHWhwWk/edit?tab=t.0" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Berger Park Cultural Center Access and Location</a>Both buildings have ramped access points.

Latin Social Dances

&Uacute;nete a nosotros todos los jueves, 1 de octubre hasta el 10 de diciembre (sin clase el 26/11) por $10 a las 6:00 pm en el Centro Cultural Berger Park para una clase de baile social latinoamericano de nivel abierto y amigable para principiantes presentada por Synapse Arts.&nbsp; Con estilos rotativos como merengue, salsa, cumbia, bachata y m&aacute;s, esta clase 18+ no requiere pareja ni experiencia previa. Hay espacio para ser nuevos mientras sudamos, conectamos y construimos comunidad a trav&eacute;s de vibrantes tradiciones de baile social. Impartido por Camila Rivero Pooley (biling&uuml;e) Orientaci&oacute;n<a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1ZT23SuszHbVqSNnEexo-cPEPL5eVVTfAQ9B7bHWhwWk/edit?tab=t.0" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Acceso y ubicaci&oacute;n del Centro Cultural Berger Park</a>Ambos edificios tienen accesos con rampas.

Trans Dance Connect (Allies welcome) with Reign DropMondays 6:30-8:00 pm CST&nbsp;Berger Park, 6205 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60660, USA Classes start in February and are ongoing through 2026, except for a summer break.Feb 2 - May 18 (no class Feb 16)&nbsp;Luke Virgilio substitute teaches on March 2July 6 - Nov 16 (no class Sept 7, Oct 12) $75 for a 10-class card or $10 for one drop-in class.&nbsp;Pay in person via cash, check, credit card, PayPal, or Venmo.&nbsp;Pay What You Can for drop-in classes is also available when paying in person. Designed to create space for transgender dancers and their allies, Trans Dance Connect is a modern/contemporary dance class designed for beginner to intermediate dancers, welcoming those who have never danced before or are returning to dance after some time off. Our main objective is to come together; everything else is low stakes, high reward. Each class centers around an archetypal theme pulled from a tarot card, allowing you to lighten your spirit through movement. You can expect intentional community building, gravitational floorwork, cathartic contemporary combinations, and guided improvisational practices.&nbsp; Taught by Synapse guest artist and collaborator Reign Drop. Classes take place in the Berger Ballroom on the 3rd floor of the main mansion. The studio has a Marley dance floor over wood planks, natural and artificial lighting, and window air conditioning. Non-binary bathrooms are available on the 2nd floor. We regret that the studio is not fully accessible - participants must move up two sets of stairs to access the space. Full wayfinding information is available at this link: <a fr-original-style="" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZT23SuszHbVqSNnEexo-cPEPL5eVVTfAQ9B7bHWhwWk/edit?usp=sharing." rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Berger Park Cultural Center - Access and Location Information</a>&nbsp;Due to the size of the space, advance registration is limited to 10 spots, and drop-in spots are subject to availability. Health and Safety Protocols: Social distancing and mask wearing are encouraged. We ask that participants negotiate their comfort levels in each setting, including requesting masks be worn. For requests with accessibility assistance, please contact info@synapsearts.com or call or text our access request line at 947-2CREATE (947-227-3283).&nbsp;

Synapse Arts Collective

Synapse Arts Collective

Events

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2026 Inclusive Dance

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Latin Social Dances

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2026 Trans Dance Connect

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2026 Official Donation Form

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MATADORA: Become a mythmaker with us!

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