In its first year, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s summer festival had just 52 students. Now, as the organization celebrates its 20th anniversary, more than 40,000 people have attended CHRP events!

Co-founded by Lane Alexander and Kelly Michaels, CHRP has made major strides for the tap community throughout the past two decades. The group has awarded more than $250,000 in scholarships for its summer study programs, and it provides free after-school classes at elementary schools, high schools and community cultural centers throughout Chicago.

On July 26, CHRP’s flagship event, Rhythm World 2010, kicks off, bringing together the biggest names in tap for two weeks of classes, public performances and tap jams. Jason Samuels Smith, Dianne Walker, Ayodele Casel, Bril Barrett and more will make it the tap event of the year! Visit chicagotap.org for more info. 

Photo of students in class at Chicago Human Rhythm Project by Kristie Kahns.