When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
M.A.D.D. Rhythms
Why M.A.D.D. Rhythms is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
M.A.D.D. Rhythms is a dynamic and highly acclaimed tap dance collective based in Chicago, dedicated to spreading the love and joy of tap dance across the world. Founded over two decades ago by Bril Barrett and Martin “Tre” Dumas III, the company originated as a way to give back to underserved communities on the South and West Sides of Chicago, where arts programming was severely limited. Today, M.A.D.D. Rhythms has evolved into a full-fledged performing arts company renowned for representing the true essence of tap—rhythm. The dance collective features a diverse group of talented tap dancers ranging from age 15 to 44, reflecting a remarkable level of versatility and passion for the art form. Beyond performances, they also run the M.A.D.D. Rhythms Tap Academy, which embraces an inclusive policy of "we won’t turn anyone away," launching careers of many internationally recognized tap dancers. The organization’s commitment to community upliftment and arts education makes it not only a great place to see inspiring performances but also a vibrant hub for meeting like-minded friends and supporters who share a passion for dance, culture, and positive social impact. Its combination of high-caliber artistry and community engagement creates an enriching atmosphere ideal for gatherings, celebrations, and cultural exchange.
Here's what people think of M.A.D.D. Rhythms
As of recent, M.A.D.D. Rhythms holds a 5-star rating based on 6 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise M.A.D.D. Rhythms for their exceptional talent and heartfelt commitment to spreading the joy of tap dance. Many reviewers highlight the company’s energetic performances, flawless rhythm, and the inspiring stories behind the dancers and their backgrounds, appreciating how the collective nurtures young dancers and fosters a supportive, inclusive environment. The positive feedback often mentions the transformative impact M.A.D.D. Rhythms has had on the Chicago arts community, especially in underserved neighborhoods, applauding their dedication to arts education and community empowerment. On the other hand, any negative remarks are relatively minimal and mostly relate to logistical issues such as event scheduling or venue size constraints rather than the quality of the dance or the company’s mission. Some users expressed a desire for more frequent performances or expanded outreach programs to reach a broader audience. Overall, the reviews emphasize a strong admiration for M.A.D.D. Rhythms’ artistry, community focus, and leadership in the tap dance world, concluding that it remains a beloved and respected institution with a glowing reputation across Chicago and beyond.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Thandi Cai
MADD Rhythms is one of those rare spaces that leads with deep passion and love for the art and its role in the world. I didn’t know much about tap until I started attending their shows. From there I started taking classes and connecting with other students, instructors and legends. I have learned so much about the history of this genre and its contribution to Chicago, the country and the world. I’m so grateful that I have access to learn at the center of this culture and history
Kaylee Vernetti
Don't need to go here I know it's great. Just sending my love as old family. Miss you guys. Great part of my life and lead me to be who I am today. If you're ever in Pittsburgh hit me up I can host an after show for you
Charles McGregory
Amazing dance company, class for children, adults, beginners, and professionals. They have some of the most welcoming instructors and their performances are absolutely amazing.
Rochelle O
The best combined vocalists & tap performance I've ever seen! Your rendition of Nina Simone's Feeling Good still makes my heart sing! Where can I see y'all again?
TenAHcious Tiera
Great classes, knowledgeable teachers, kind mother 🙂
How to reach M.A.D.D. Rhythms
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Why M.A.D.D. Rhythms may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at M.A.D.D. Rhythms with your friends? Imagine gathering with your favorite people in a space alive with rhythm, energy, and celebration—a place that pulses with the heartbeat of Chicago’s rich cultural history. M.A.D.D. Rhythms, a premier tap dance collective in Bronzeville, offers exactly that kind of electrifying atmosphere. This is no ordinary meet-up spot; it’s a vibrant community hub where artistry, history, and joy converge. When you come here to rally with friends, you’re not just attending a show or workshop—you’re participating in a shared experience that elevates spirits and deepens connections through the universal language of rhythm and movement. Whether your group is passionate about dance or just looking for a unique and inspiring outing, M.A.D.D. Rhythms provides a dynamic and welcoming environment that will leave everyone talking long after the taps stop. It’s a chance to witness the power of collective creativity, celebrate unsung legends of tap, and create memories that go beyond an ordinary social gathering.
What kinds of activities does M.A.D.D. Rhythms offer for groups? M.A.D.D. Rhythms is celebrated for its high-energy tap dance performances, workshops, and community tap jams—all of which are perfect for a group looking to engage, learn, and have fun together. Their live shows are theatrical productions often themed around powerful cultural tributes, such as their evocative “Feeling Good” tribute to Nina Simone, where intricate tap choreography is combined with live jazz music and soulful vocals. These performances are packed with storytelling that honors the history and spirit of tap dance and African American heritage, engaging audiences with a mix of history, emotion, and pure showmanship. For groups interested in active participation, M.A.D.D. Rhythms offers both in-person and virtual tap dance classes through their Tap Academy, welcoming everyone from beginners to experienced dancers. These classes provide an excellent way for friends or families to bond while learning new skills or deepening their appreciation of this art form. Additionally, the Bronzeville Community Tap Jams invite people to come together on the wooden floor to improvise, connect, and celebrate tap’s roots in a lively, supportive atmosphere.
Why is M.A.D.D. Rhythms the perfect place for a group meetup? Beyond the rich cultural programming and inspiring performances, M.A.D.D. Rhythms creates an inclusive and interactive environment that is ideal for group gatherings. The organization’s ethos focuses heavily on community, education, and honoring the legacy of the unsung pioneers of tap dance, encouraging a deeper connection not only to the art form but also to each other. Their events often encourage audience and participant engagement, making group members feel more involved rather than passive spectators. This participatory spirit allows friends or family to share a collective passion, learn together, celebrate creativity, and even express themselves through movement in a way that few other venues offer. The space itself is rooted in Bronzeville, a historic Black American arts mecca, which adds a layer of authenticity and cultural significance to every experience. Whether watching a moving tribute, taking part in a class, or joining a tap jam circle, groups at M.A.D.D. Rhythms leave with a sense of connection—to each other, to the community, and to the enduring rhythm of tap dance.
How does M.A.D.D. Rhythms connect with its community and history? A fundamental part of M.A.D.D. Rhythms’ appeal is its commitment to storytelling through tap dance, embracing the art form as a vehicle for historical and cultural education. Their performances often pay tribute to legendary Black artists and explore themes of resilience, joy, and cultural identity. Tap is not merely dance here—it’s a conversation with history, a way to honor the struggles and triumphs of tap’s pioneers. This connection to legacy is palpable in productions like their Nina Simone tribute, where every tap beat echoes stories of endurance and artistic brilliance. For groups, this means their experience extends far beyond entertainment into a meaningful engagement with art that carries profound cultural weight. The sense of community is further nurtured through ongoing events like Tap Jams that bring together dancers of all ages and backgrounds, fostering intergenerational and cross-cultural dialogue rooted in improvisation and mutual respect. M.A.D.D. Rhythms stands as a living tradition, allowing groups to be part of something both culturally significant and joyously alive.
What makes the performances and tap jams at M.A.D.D. Rhythms stand out for a group outing? M.A.D.D. Rhythms is known for its innovative choreography and deeply emotional performances that combine technical tap skills with theatrical storytelling. Audiences are treated to an immersive experience where live music, lighting, and powerful vocals complement the tap dancers’ intricate footwork and improvisations. For a group, attending such a performance provides not just entertainment but a shared emotional journey, with moments of humor, intensity, and celebration that resonate widely. Their tap jams, on the other hand, offer a more hands-on approach where attendees can move beyond spectator status and engage with the art form alongside professional dancers. These jam sessions foster a warm, accessible environment where groups can experiment with rhythm, cheer on each other’s creativity, and revel in the communal aspect of tap culture. Whether your meetup involves cheering on a spellbinding show or diving into movement yourselves, the layered experiences at M.A.D.D. Rhythms create meaningful memories and deepen bonds.
How accessible is M.A.D.D. Rhythms for all ages and skill levels during a group visit? One of the standout features of M.A.D.D. Rhythms is their dedication to accessibility and inclusivity. The Tap Academy offers classes that accommodate beginners through advanced dancers, making it easy for groups with a range of tap experience to participate comfortably. Their pandemic-conscious approach provides both in-person and virtual options, ensuring safe and flexible engagement no matter the group’s preferences or needs. This accessibility makes M.A.D.D. Rhythms an inviting destination for family events, reunions, or friend groups that might have varying tastes and abilities. Even if some members of your group are simply there to watch, the atmosphere remains warm and welcoming—with plenty of opportunities to interact socially and celebrate together. This thoughtful inclusion extends to their programming, which honors the full diversity of the community and invites everyone to feel at home in the tap dance tradition.
Why is M.A.D.D. Rhythms’ location and community involvement ideal for organizing group meetups? Located in the heart of Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood, M.A.D.D. Rhythms is situated in a historic district known for its rich Black cultural and artistic heritage. This location makes it more than just a performance venue—it is a hub for cultural celebration, education, and community empowerment. Groups meeting here enjoy the ambiance of a culturally vibrant neighborhood with numerous local dining and entertainment options to complement their visit. Moreover, M.A.D.D. Rhythms frequently collaborates with community organizations and participates in public events such as Juneteenth celebrations and Chicago Tap Summits, giving groups who gather here a chance to connect with broad and meaningful movements beyond their immediate experience. The place serves as a gateway to a thriving cultural ecosystem that adds value and depth to any group outing. This strong community engagement, combined with professional artistry and deep respect for historical roots, makes M.A.D.D. Rhythms a compelling venue choice.
How can your group benefit from attending a year-end fundraiser or special event at M.A.D.D. Rhythms? Participating in M.A.D.D. Rhythms’ fundraiser events or annual celebrations offers a unique opportunity for groups to support the arts while enjoying unforgettable programming. These events typically combine high-caliber performances with social interaction and opportunities to engage with the artists and organizers. Attending as a group means you contribute collectively to sustaining M.A.D.D. Rhythms’ mission of spreading the joy and legacy of tap worldwide. It also provides a festive and uplifting environment, perfect for celebrating milestones or simply sharing good times with friends and family. Special events often feature unique productions, guest performers, and interactive components that go beyond the usual show experience, making them ideal for groups who want something special and memorable. Through these experiences, your group not only entertains itself but becomes part of a larger movement to keep tap’s art and stories alive for future generations.
What is the overall vibe that makes M.A.D.D. Rhythms a destination for meaningful group experiences? The essence of M.A.D.D. Rhythms is its vibrant celebration of rhythm, history, and community. When your group arrives here, you step into a space buzzing with creative energy and mutual respect for a shared cultural heritage. The performances are both inspiring and moving, the workshops are engaging and fun, and the tap jams provide a warmly inclusive atmosphere. This combination creates a perfect setting for groups who want more than just a social outing—they want an experience that feeds the soul, sparks conversation, and invites everyone to participate. Whether your group is made up of dance enthusiasts or newcomers, artists or admirers, the welcoming spirit and artistic excellence of M.A.D.D. Rhythms guarantee a meaningful, joy-filled meetup where everyone leaves feeling a bit more connected—to each other, to the art, and to the heartbeat of community. This is why it stands out as a top choice for hosting your next gathering.