[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 117 (Friday, September 24, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1695]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE JOFFREY BALLET OF CHICAGO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 23, 2004

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate The Joffrey Ballet 
of Chicago on more than 40 years of excellence and artistic 
achievement.
  Since its foundation in 1956, the Joffrey Ballet has brought a unique 
and innovative approach to American dance theater. In addition to 
entertaining Chicago audiences for decades, the Joffrey exists as a 
touring company with a repertoire of original ballets and choreography 
that have been enjoyed by ballet fans worldwide.
  Created by Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey held its 
first major production at Chicago's 8th Street Theater on January 22, 
1957. The performance proved to be a tremendous success, and helped 
establish the Joffrey as one of the best national companies of the day. 
In addition, the Joffrey has received international acclaim for its 
performances in 25 foreign countries, including Korea, Syria, and 
Afghanistan.
  Renowned for a remarkable repertory of more than 225 ballets by 85 
choreographers, The Joffrey commissioned the first ballets of such 
notable American choreographers as Alvin Ailey, Laura Dean, Anna 
Sokolow, and Chicagoan Randy Duncan. Furthermore, the company has 
revived many of the lost classics such as Parade from 1909, and The 
Three-Cornered Hat from 1919. In addition, The Joffrey has achieved 
great success by incorporating modern technology and pop culture into 
its productions to create ballets that are appealing to modern 
audiences.
  Mr. Speaker, I join with the people of Chicago in congratulating The 
Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, one of Chicago's finest cultural 
institutions. From its brilliant original productions, to its 
extraordinary presentations of the classics, the company continues to 
perform ballet at the very highest of levels. I am happy to applaud 
their numerous achievements, and to wish them continued growth and 
future success.

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