Houston Thomas, a rising choreographer from Chicago’s South Side, is set to make waves in his hometown this weekend. The Joffrey Ballet will premiere his new work, featuring live music by Chicago jazz legend Ramsey Lewis, at Ravinia Festival.
Thomas’s journey began in ballet classes in a Chicago Park District gymnasium, site of a Joffrey community outreach program. That initial spark led to studies at Joffrey, the prestigious School of American Ballet, and a decade stint performing at Dresden’s Semperoper Ballett.
Houston and I spoke via Zoom about his background, his creative process, and his vision. As a lapsed ballet dancer myself, I found it fascinating — and inspiring — to hear about Thomas’s dance journey and his evolving choreographic voice. His trajectory from curious kid to international performer to innovative creator is a testament to both his talent and the power of arts.
This homecoming performance isn’t just a milestone for Thomas; it’s a celebration of Chicago’s enduring impact on the dance world.
Read the full article at wfmt.com.