RHYTHM WORLD #36 Chicago's International Festival of American Tap

Chicago's International Festival of American Tap celebrates its 36th Anniversary with a dynamic week (August 4-9, 2026) of programming includes courses, masterclasses, choreographic residencies (Platforms), and incredible performances with many of the best teaching and performing artists in the world.

Festival Showcase at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago

Wednesday, August 5, at 7:00 PM

Often an audience favorite! Enjoy young artists from around the world as they share their rhythms, passion and in many cases, blistering technical prowess. Previous performers included MacArthur “Genius” Michelle Dorrance, Jazz at Lincoln Center soloist, Jared Grimes and CHRP’s Artistic Director Jumaane Taylor. The Student Showcase is a window into the future of tap!

Gala! JUBALEE at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago

Thursday, August 6, at 7:00 PM

Chicago Human Rhythm Project will honor Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater Executive Director Jorge Pérez, Trinity Irish Dance Founding Artistic Director Mark Howard, Polsky Center For Entrepreneurship and Innovation Associate Vice President and Managing Director Samir Mayekar and legendary tap dance performers Bruce Bradley and Buster Cooper (posthumously) with JUBA! Awards for Extraordinary Contributions to Performance and Arts Education.

JUBA! Faculty Showcase at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago

Friday, August 7, at 7:00 PM

“Hoofing” rules at Rhythm World . . . showcasing generations of virtuosos and fresh rhythms from every corner of the country. Explosive soloists, accompanied by the Eric Hochberg Trio will include Christina Carminucci, Cartier Williams, Brinae Ali Bradley, Jeremy Arnold, Jumaane Taylor, Sam Weber, Nicholas Young and Jason Janas. Witness these soloists represent the best in tap dance, exemplifying respect and progression in the art form’s traditions.

Grand Finale - PLATFORM Premieres at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago

Saturday, August 8, at 7:00 PM

“Hoofing” takes the spotlight once again at the Rhythm World Grand Finale . . . bringing together 4 masterful tap artists and their platform students from across the nation. Backed by the Eric Hochberg Trio, featured Premieres will include Cartier Williams honoring Harlem Hoofing; Brinae Ali Bradley paying tribute to the legacy of Baby Laurence; Nicholas Young combining deep grooves, bodydrumming, and polyrhythms; and Demi Remick contemporizing the work of Eleanor Powell. Experience these remarkable performers as they honor the roots of tap while pushing its creative boundaries forward.

Grab your Early Bird tickets today before they sell out! 🎟️ You can also purchase a Festival Pass for two or more shows at a discounted price. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at info@chicagotap.org