Joffrey Ballet offers 'Dancing with Parkinson's' class
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The Joffrey Ballet is home to some of the greatest dancers in the world, but a new program wants to make sure everyone gets to experience the joy of dancing.
"Dancing with Parkinson's" is a new five-week class in partnership with Northwestern Medicine. Instructors like Carly Liegel help students explore a variety of dance styles, including ballet, jazz, tap, and more.
Experts say staying active can help patients with Parkinson's improve their physical and mental health, while enjoying the benefit of community.
Liegel said for some of her students, dancing feels like home.
"This is actually one of my favorite classes to teach, because people are coming here just for their love of dance and to learn something new," she said. "It doesn't matter what age you are or what your abilities are. It's a safe space to come how you are and express what you need."
Liegel said the participants spend the first part of the class seated in chairs and halfway through, they'll have an opportunity to stand.
"For them, it's more than just being able to move throughout the day. It's about finding artistry no matter your restraints," she said.
The participants themselves are enjoying both the activity and the sense of community.
"It's exciting. It's fun. I told all my friends I was going to do this – and they asked if I was going to wear a tutu," said one participant, Glenn, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's four years ago. "They don't make them that big."
"Never having been disabled before in my life, I like to think of myself as being able," said another participant, Janice, who was diagnosed 12 years ago.
The class runs every Thursday through Aug. 10 at the ballet's South Loop Studios, 1920 S. Wabash Ave. If the program goes well, they hope to offer it again in the fall and spring.