Early career artists, we are reaching out to you as our next generation of inspirational innovators to realize your dance visions, and we’d like to help you to do that through New Dances / New Horizons! The goal to support your creative voices has been front and center here at TDC for many years. That mission has remained fluid and adaptive to serve your needs and the community’s needs as our environment continues to evolve, shift, and constantly change. This newsletter is honored to include an inspiring message from New Dances co-founder and visionary, Barbara Stein. Read on, be inspired, and apply today! 

The application to support your creativity is due 10:00am CT Friday, February 27. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Jump on this chance for support! Apply for the

New Dances / New Horizons microgrant before the application

closes on Friday, February 27 at 10:00am CT.

Apply Here!

Thodos Dance Chicago (TDC) has been the proud home of New Dances (ND) for over 25 years. Originating with The Chicago Repertory Dance Ensemble in 1983, New Dances (ND) came under the umbrella of TDC in 2000 and was in partnership with DanceWorks Chicago from 2018-2025.

TDC is thrilled to announce New Dances / New Horizons (ND / NH), a new initiative providing support for early-career, Chicago-based choreographers through project-based microgrants. ND / NH will continue TDC’s goal to enrich and serve our vibrant commUNITY by shining a light on artists’ creativity and supporting opportunities for their continued growth, while building upon the New Dances legacy of developing choreographic talent in the Chicagoland community!

CALLING ALL DANCEMAKERS: Early-career, Chicago and Chicagoland-based dancemakers working in any dance genre(s) are invited to apply for consideration to receive a microgrant of up to $500.

We look forward to getting to know you and your work!

Photo credits:

New Dances 2025 Choreographer: Janiya Pearson

New Dances 2025 Dancers: Trey Alexander, Samantha Leigh Anderson, Lauryn Crowell, Ella Kim, Alexandria Kinard, Mia Philippon, Faith von Atzigen

Photo by Vin Reed

Have questions about the New Dances / New Horizons application? Check out our application resources below:

• FAQ Guide
• Recorded Info Session

Please reach out to Thodos Dance Chicago General Manager, Emma Lambert, at

emma.lambert@thodosdancechicago.org with any additional questions.

"As New Dances (a program that nurtured local choreographic talent and served the Chicago community for over 40 years though its collaborative spirit and fully-produced performances) continues to evolve, we are all so lucky that TDC, under Melissa Thodos’ ongoing compassionate direction, has the desire and commitment to continue raising funds to support early-career artists. While a different kind of support than the long-standing New Dances program, New Dances / New Horizons will become a new treasure for emerging artists. As one of the founders of New Dances, I am personally grateful to see efforts that encourage choreographers to create their work in this city, with a special thanks to Melissa for her never-ending stamina and belief in cultivating Chicago’s dance artists."

-New Dances co-founder and visionary, Barbara Stein

As we embark on 2026, we are grateful for your thoughtful consideration to support our Match Campaign for New Dances / New Horizons.

Each donated dollar up to $1,500 will be matched courtesy of a generous donation from Compliance Program Management LLC, David R. Hall and Michael C. Nugent. Double your impact today and consider investing in our shared creative future.

New Dances / New Horizons (ND / NH), is a new initiative providing support for early-career, Chicago-based choreographers through project-based microgrants. ND / NH will continue TDC’s goal to enrich and serve our vibrant commUNITY by shining a light on artists’ creativity and supporting opportunities for their continued growth. New Dances (ND) has been part of Chicago’s dance history for over 40 years, originating with The Chicago Repertory Dance Ensemble in 1983!

Checks may be made out to Thodos Dance Chicago and mailed to 1016 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610. Electronic payment may be made via our website through the "Donate Now" button below.

Thank you for being part of Thodos Dance Chicago’s family of supporters.  #SupportTheHeARTS