From Chicago to Asia with love

American Dance Center directors teach dance in the Philippines

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Kathleen Villari teaching dance up to the rafters.
American Dance Center owners Jack and Kathleen Villari, who own schools in both Orland Park and Homewood, recently traveled overseas as chosen representatives for the United States at the Second International Dance Exchange in the Philippines. The husband and wife team will celebrate the center's 40th anniversary with a student showcase, The Best of Times, June 12-13 at the Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University.

When we were selected to represent the United States at the 2nd International Dance Exchange in the Philippines, we were both apprehensive and honored. The first workshop and festival in 2009 was an Asian event established to strengthen an international dance network of cultural understanding and diplomatic relations between countries. More than 500 advanced dancers represented China, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia and the Philippines. The event was so successful that the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the National Committee on Dance, decided that this year they would invite England and America. Being nominated to represent our country for an event of this proportion was an extreme honor. To be selected by the National Commission in the Philippines to be the first American delegates was something we couldn't pass up.

As performers, authors and dance educators, we had much experience on the international scene, but representing the United States was a big responsibility. Traveling as a diplomat to any foreign country is not like taking a vacation. You are constantly representing your country in everything you say and do. Many people have preconceived ideas about the United States from what they have read and heard in news stories. Our responsibility was to present our country in the best light. We would be involved in the opening and closing ceremonies, much like the Olympics, and teach a two-hour master class to more than 500 dancers.

Traveling halfway around the world was an eye-opening experience. We found out two days of travel, waiting in foreign airports, and going through different time zones can really tire you out. Our first experience with Asiana Airlines gave us a glimpse of what was to come. We were impressed with the soft spoken sincerity, and personal attention that the Korean airline representative offered. Their perfectly placed buns at the back of their heads, well-coordinated outfits and polite manner showed that they had been hand picked and well trained. It was first class service throughout the 12-hour flight.

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Governor Victor A. Tanco, Province of Capiz with Kathleen and Jack Villari.
Our first stop was Manila. This is where we met Charles our personal representative. Charles, a college student working towards a MA in Asian history, did everything for us. He was quiet, personable and cared for our every need. He handled all schedules, transportation, luggage and anything we asked for. Because of his studies he was able to inform us on the history and traditions of every place we visited, which made it all very interesting. We enjoyed our overnight stay in Manila and would return for another night before our trip home.

The next day we flew to Roxas City for the festival opening ceremonies. Roxas City is known for its export of fresh seafood, which was evident from the faint smell of the sea as we exited the plane. Needless to say, sea food and rice was served for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It was an interesting menu change.

As we arrived, we were greeted by a group of dancers who presented us with souvenir shell necklaces and danced different local dances as we secured our luggage. Then off to our room to unpack and prepare for the rest of our journey.

We would travel with all of the Asian delegates for the entire week. We ate with them, shared stories and experiences with them. We were welcomed by Governor Victor A. Tanco of the Province of Capiz, Roxas City and would have a private farewell dinner with Shirley Halili Cruz, the festival director and head of the National Committee on Dance. Our schedule was busy and we enjoyed every minute.

Arrangements were made for us to stay in the presidential suite of the President Inn, right in the heart of the provincial capital of Capiz. Looking much like a European boutique hotel, the three-story, 15-room Inn built in 1997, was designed to have a restful elegance with an artistic flair. Throughout each floor one could see unique Ming Dynasty porcelains and a fine collection of vintage furniture.

The Inn was located on the main street, which reverberated with music and announcements of candidates for the upcoming elections. Traffic was congested with three wheel passenger bikes and cars. Ever present, but often unnoticed within the crowds, were children, mostly boys 5 to 8 years old. With a mere glance from us, they would stretch out an open hand and with wide eyed innocence say, "Money?"

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One section of more than 400 dancers on the beach at 630 a.m.
The next day was filled with anticipation. An estimated 50,000 attended the opening ceremonies, which started with colorful pageantry and ended with dancing and fireworks. The next three days would be filled with workshops and performances. All of the 500 teachers, choreographers and advanced dancers from the represented Asian countries attended our master class which emphasized contemporary ballet and theatre dance. We greeted the dancers in their own language and after a brief inspirational talk on music and movement as our common bond, began basic warm up exercises to The Circle of Live.

The theme of the event, Cultural Connectivity through Dance, was indeed evident. They loved the relationship of classical ballet to jazz and found it interesting that peasants and the elite both shared dance backgrounds. They eagerly grasped each step and enjoyed taking the challenge of trying something new. It was overwhelming to see more than 200 men leaping across the floor as they left the ground soaring into space. The women were just as excited with the more lyrical movements. It was exhilarating to watch as they all felt a sense of pride. We followed large movements with steps they had learned in the warm up and designed a routine to Barry Manilow's "Can't Smile Without You," including a brief tap dance section.

After the class they surrounded us for a half hour of individual and group photos. The feeling best described was a mix of idol worship and people reaching out with hope for the future. We are old enough to expect respect, but received adulation and sincere expressions of love that were overwhelming.

It was interesting to realize that throughout the week people were standing next to us and had friends take their picture to look as though they were with us. Sometimes three or four would gather into the picture frame before we realized what they were doing. The group would instantly double in size when we suggested taking a picture together. They were so respectful and would respond with thank you Mister Jack and Madam Kathleen. We were shocked that they had already read our bios in the program book and remembered our names. Such instant recognition and respect is hard to come by normally.

On our daily journeys we would drive by a big blue church, obviously a huge cathedral. Charles said they had an English mass and would check into the schedule. He immediately found out that there was a 5:30 mass. We were thinking p.m.; he actually meant a.m. We arrived at the church Sunday morning before dawn. We were surprised to see that all the seats were filled and there were still many people praying in the aisles and in the back open areas. Charles said this was common. Songs and prayers were expressed with spirited voices. Displaying a strong faith, they shared what they had in the collection basket. What an example to others who have so much and do so little!

As we viewed the rural areas, the dichotomy of life became apparent. Even in the stadium and at the airport where one would expect certain standards, we could not find a public restroom that supplied what we would consider basic needs. We almost felt guilty returning to our hotel each night, where we had the comforts of home. But, we had to admit after the busy hot days, it was appreciated.

The next morning we sacrificed sleep for a shared bonding and respect for mother earth. We all joined together at 6:30 a.m. to dance on the beach and watch the sun rise. Afterward, we formed teams made up of multiple countries. We had fun together and helped clean the beach of any debris that Mother Nature or unconcerned beachgoers may have left behind. We realized that keeping our planet green and the waters clean is a high priority for an area that thrives on fishing.

Our last day in the Philippines was spent on Boracay Island, a popular tourist area, which required a three hour bus ride and short ferry boat trip. Once more, we were greeted by smiling women who placed shell necklaces on each of us. We stayed at the Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center, the newest hotel on the island. We enjoyed the beautiful room and balcony, pool, white sandy beach, and a great buffet dinner and show. It was truly a tropical paradise.

Our trip through the airport was quick and effortless. Charles ushered us through the diplomatic lines and proceeded to the VIP waiting room. He stayed with us as long as he could and then we exchanged sad farewells. It was hard to realize that while we were here dancing, Chicago was on the other side of the world sleeping.

While it was all enjoyable, our real reward was sharing our passion of music and dance with so many from other cultures. We saw a mix of different class levels and educational standards, but each one seemed proud of their heritage and who they were. Everyone was friendly and having a good time. To see such jubilation and happiness from those who readily accept far less then we take for granted, was indeed humbling.

We are proud to have been selected to represent our country. It seemed strange that for much of our lives, Japanese, Chinese, and Koreans were often referred to as war enemies in movies and newspaper headlines. Now, years later, we were all here together sharing our hearts and souls. We were one in the moment supporting each other, exchanging stories and laughter. It felt good and right.

When we agreed to take this journey, we had no idea where it would lead. We thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to spread our love and knowledge of dance with others. Instead, we were treated to a new awakening into the lives of our counterparts overseas. What we saw wasn't just different groups dancing; we entered into that cultural connectivity of dance. We met proud people with a strong passion to preserve their heritage through dance. We went to share with others and in return we received a new awareness of the open arms and respect of our Asian neighbors and new found friends.

We saw love in action.



American Dance Center directors selected to be global ambassadors

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American Dance Center directors, Kathleen, Jack and Maria Villari were recently selected as America’s Ambassadors of Dance.
Jack and Kathleen Villari, directors of the American Dance Center in Orland Park and Homewood, have recently been named America's global ambassadors of dance. As international ambassadors of dance, they will travel half-way around the world to teach popular American dance styles and performance techniques to choreographers, dance educators, and dancers from China, Singapore, Korea, Spain, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, England and Canada.

To expand relationships and universal dialogue between countries, the dance world will come together next spring for a prestigious summit of dance. The Villari's daughter, Maria, a national winning choreographer and head of ADC's advanced tap and jazz divisions, was also invited as a master teacher. The Villari's are proud to have been selected to represent America and to have the opportunity of working with hundreds of dancers and dance educators, as part of the 2010 Asian Dance Exchange in the Philippines.

This latest tribute is one of many international honors Jack and Kathleen have received. They choreographed ADC dancers for Mayor Daley's International Association for World Peace and worked with the mayor's special events office to help arrange the opening ceremony show for the 2007 AIBA World Boxing Championship at the Chicago theatre. The event was broadcast worldwide and included athletes from 120 countries.

This past April, they traveled to Los Angeles to receive the 2009 Illinois/USA global award for Dance Excellence in Teaching and Performance at the Dance Excellence International Dance Festival. They were one of 10 American directors to receive this distinction.

ADC will be celebrating their 40th year in the Orland Park area, with a gala student production planned for June 2010.


American Dance Center to be honored at Dance Festival

When husband and wife Jack and Kathleen Villari moved to Chicago, they thought the move would be temporary. They moved to Chicago to take care of Kathleen's father's ailing health, but they decided to stay after Jack established professional connections in Chicago.So, in 1971, the Villaris, two accomplished choreographers, entertainers, and dance educators, opened the American Dance Center school in Richton Park. Now in its 38th year, the ADC is considered the best dance school in the Southland with locations in Orland Park and Homewood.

In April, the American Dance Center will be honored at the 2009 Dance Excellence International Dance Festival in Los Angeles as one of the best dance schools in the country. The ADC will represent Illinois and the United States. Dance representatives from other countries, including Australia and Japan, will also be honored at the festival.The ADC will perform original dance numbers at the Performing Arts Center in Long Beach and the Hollywood Backlot Stage in Disneyland.

This isn't the first time the ADC will be being awarded at this festival, but the Villaris are still honored and grateful. Kathleen, who teaches traditional dance, says, "The idea is to get inspired dancers together with other inspired dancers to inspire each other."It's very stimulating as a dancer to see the entire world dancing."It's a family affair at the ADC. Maria Villari, Jack and Kathleen's daughter, will also be honored at the festival for her work in the field of dance.Maria teaches advanced jazz and tap and choreographs at the ADC. She also models and has been showcased at Disneyland, Dance Chicago and the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. Jack and Kathleen's son, Brian Villari, manages the ADC. His wife, Tracey, teaches children and junior-level classes at the school.

Jack and Kathleen have been entertainers for years and have taught more than 30,000 dancers at their school. They met in New York City after auditioning for roles in a Broadway production of "Camelot."
After graduating with a degree in dance from Butler University, Kathleen moved to New York City to pursue performance art. Jack was working at ABC in New York City and working on becoming a songwriter.
He remembers when auditions were being held for "Camelot." He didn't want to audition, but friends persuaded him. He remembers a friend saying, "You might meet the girl of your dreams."
Kathleen didn't want to audition either because she was pursuing other opportunities, but friends and family encouraged her. Kathleen and Jack ended up receiving roles and toured all over the country with "Camelot."
They say they consider their partnership as "meant to be." They add that after they completed their yearlong tour with "Camelot," they moved back to New York and into the Camelot Apartments.

After being honored at the festival, the ADC will prepare for its 10th annual production of Holiday Fantasy, a dinner theater show. The show will be staged in November at the Tinley Park Convention Center.
The Villaris aren't showing any signs of stopping. They say they plan on keeping the dance center open. Kathleen says, "Life just wouldn't be the same without this place."

A love of dance and sense of confidence is what the Villaris try to instill in all of their students. Kathleen says, "We believe dance is for everyone. It soothes the soul."


Return to Hollywood...

The American Dance Center and directors, Jack and Kathleen Villari, received international recognition when the school and dance company were chosen to represent the state of Illinois at the prestigious 2009 Dance Excellence International Festival in Los Angeles. This festival is a global awards and recognition event paying tribute to outstanding work in the dance arts. Only one school from each state and country is selected. Honorees included Alaska, Australia, Canada, Cyprus, England, Hawaii, Ireland, Japan, Gibraltar, Scotland and South Wales. This is the 7th year the American Dance Center has been recognized on this world stage for its accomplishments. 

The Villari's received congratulatory letters from Barack Obama, United States Senator Richard J. Durbin, and Former Illinois Governor Rod R. Blagojevich. Barack Obama said, "I am impressed by the strong commitment that you have demonstrated by immersing yourselves into this wonderful cultural experience. American Dance Center's selection for this program is only a testament of your hard work and perseverance."  

Senator Richard J. Durbin said, "Through your dedication to dance education and to bringing international attention to the dance arts, you have proven to be a strong and vital part of the dance community."

Former Governor Blagojevich said," I am pleased to know that you have been chosen to represent our State at this event which showcases dance talent from around the United States and the world."

Awards are presented through a highly selective process. After first being recommended by the Festival committee, nominees are then evaluated through video performances, reviews, and personal interviews. Professional standards, school philosophies, curriculum, technique levels, versatility in all styles of dance, showmanship, student achievements and strong community support are all considered during the stringent scoring period.

Because of this distinction, selected dancers had the opportunity to showcase the training and philosophies of the school before an audience and Festival adjudicators. Lyrical ballet, tap, and jazz pieces were created by Dance Center instructor and award winning choreographer, Maria Villari. The dancers were recognized on stage as the official Illinois state delegates. They continued the ADC's legacy for highest scores possible for their performance style, technique, and originality. While in California, they also accepted an invitation to present their own show at Disneyland and participated in the festival's gala awards banquet and closing production. It was certainly a week to remember!


American Dance Center directors to receive international honors
Orland residents to attend dance festival


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Jack and Kathleen Villari, directors of the American Dance Center, have been selected for international honors.


Jack and Kathleen Villari, directors of the American Dance Center (ADC) in Orland Park and Homewood will be honored this April at the 2009 Dance Excellence International Dance Festival in Los Angeles, California. This week-long global recognition event pays tribute to outstanding work in dance education and performance. The Villaris' are proud to represent the entire state of Illinois and the U.S.A. at this prestigious event and have received letters from President-elect, Barack Obama and United States Senator, Dick Durbin congratulating their achievements in the arts. They will be recognized at a gala awards banquet honoring representatives from Alaska, Australia, Canada, Cyprus, England, Gibraltar, Hawaii, Ireland, Japan, South Wales, Philippines and U.S.A.

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Maria Villari, choreographer, fashion model and dance instructor is preparing ADC dancers for performances at the International Dance Festival in Los Angeles. California.
Maria Villari, director of the advanced tap and jazz divisions at the ADC will also be recognized for her outstanding work in the field of dance. Maria has won numerous awards for her choreography and will present her dancers before the board of festival adjudicators. The various styles of dance will be evaluated for technique and originality and become part of the scoring process for next year's invitational. In the past, the American Dance Center has earned the highest ratings. This year's group is looking forward to gaining the same recognition. They are also excited about dancing in the 3,000 seat Performing Arts Center in Long Beach, the Hollywood Backlot Stage in Disneyland, and the once in a lifetime opportunity to meet and perform before some of the world's finest dancers.

American Dance Center intermediate and advanced dancers from 7 Chicago Southland communities will represent Illinois and USA at the International Dance Festival from April 5-11 in Los Angeles, Calif.











 2009 Summer Dance Champions!

ADC dancers attended the annual Dance Olympus Convention this summer.

3 days of non-stop dance classes, performances, auditions and competition proved to be another exciting and memorable experience!

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Din-Da-Da -
Gold Champion - Senior Tap
4 competition pieces 

Junior Division Jazz -
"Shake It"

Senior Division Jazz -
"Mercy"

Senior DivisionTap -
"Din -Da-Da"

Senior Division Lyrical -
"Make You Feel My Love"
Make You Feel My Love  
Make You Feel My Love -
 Gold Champion - Senior Lyrical


Mercy

Mercy -
Gold Champion -Senior Jazz

All four entries received Gold Championship Awards!

A special congratulations goes out to three of our Senior Dancers.

Megan Smith and Taylor Foytik, won dance scholarships to the Dance Olympus winter tour. After an hour and a half audition, the girls made it through to the finals, which were held in front of an audience at the faculty show. Only four dancers in the entire senior division received scholarships.  

Chloe Bigelow who was chosen by audition to become a 2010 Dance Olympus V.I.P. 
As part of the summer tour, she will have the opportunity to travel to several cities, joining 11 outstanding teachers and other V.I.P dancers from throughout the country. She will have the opportunity to learn new choreography, assist the teachers and perform in the faculty shows.


Junior Overall High Score/Best of Show Award Winner
"Shake It"

Shake It - Gold Champion - Junior Division Jazz
The prestigious Trophy was awarded to "The Best" of all the junior competition entries.
The dancers were invited to repeat their piece as part of the
Dance Olympus faculty show and will be featured in their On Tour magazine.



15th Straight Win!

Readers of The Southtown Star Newspaper named the American Dance Center "Best Dance School in Chicago Southland" for the 15th straight year in the Annual Readers' Choice Awards. Over 150,000 votes were cast in these area wide public opinion polls. It is an honor to be recognized as "The Best" by the people you serve. Over 60 Cook and Will county dance schools were eligible. We appreciate your vote of support and pledge to continue to raise the standards for quality dance education and performances in our area.

 

 

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