As Chicago awaits warmer weather, some Logan Square residents are looking forward to sunny days spent at family-friendly Haas Park (2402 N. Washtenaw Ave.). The park offers a variety of classes, including classes with Design Dance Ltd.
Spring 2014 classes run through May 10. Although it seems like eons away, summer classes begin June 24.
Dance Classes For Kids
Logan Square youngsters can join classes ranging from “Tot Hip Hop” to beginners’ tap, ballet and breakdancing. Moms of two-year-olds can get involved too by joining “Mom & Tot” pre-dance classes. At the end of the spring session, all youth have the opportunity to participate in an annual Spring Showcase on Saturday, May 10.
According to dance instructor Kate Pucket, classes are run in the Haas Park Fieldhouse.
“No matter the style of dance, each class is also an opportunity to hone important listening skills, build spatial and body awareness, participate in a group environment, make new friends, build community and have fun,” Pucket says.
Haas Park instructor Johanna Thompson says she loves the excitement of her Logan Square students.
“My students at Haas Park are always so excited to come to dance class. They have learned so much and are a joy to work with each week,” she says.
Building A Community Through Dance
Design Dance’s programming director Debra Giunta, says the relationship between the park and the studio has been beneficial for all residents.
“One of the fundamental goals of our company’s mission is to infuse dance into communities through thriving, productive partnerships,” she says. “The Haas Park staff, as well as a group of roughly 50 incredibly supportive Logan Square families, have helped us to achieve that goal and continue to work towards broadening the spectrum of our impact and offerings.”
Thompson echoed Guinta’s enthusiasm for the partnership.
Parents’ Perspectives
“The kids can play at the playground at the Haas Park field-house before or after class,” says one Logan Square parent Anna. “It is a great way to make new friends in the community for children and parents.”
Anna’s daughter has participated in Design Dance Haas Park programming since the summer of 2012. Because the classes are affordable, her daughter can enjoy studying more than one class per session, she says.
“The ballet instructors are great with children. They know how to get their attention, keep it creative, [while] making sure the children are learning,” she adds.
Logan Square parent Lauren Litchfield says she also is pleased by the quality of the classes at Haas park, as well as their proximity.
“We love Logan Square and try very hard to support businesses nearby. But it is not always easy with kids programming,” she says. “Design Dance’s partnership with Haas Park is genius. Wonderful programming at a very affordable price.”
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