Joffrey Ballet Academy renamed after historic $5 million gift

The Joffrey Ballet has received a historic $5 million donation from the Grainger Foundation, based in Lake Forest, Illinois. This generous gift will endow and rename the Joffrey Academy of Dance to the Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet, effective immediately.

Board Chair Anne Kaplan praised Grainger's long-standing support of the Joffrey's inclusive dance education, noting that the foundation has backed scholarships and resources for students from diverse backgrounds for over eight years. The Grainger Foundation emphasized the transformative power of arts education, expressing pride in their continued partnership with the Joffrey.

Since 2016, the foundation has supported projects such as a documentary on Christopher Wheeldon's The Nutcracker, and scholarships for Academy students. This new $5 million endowment will help the Academy provide even more scholarships, ensuring that talented young dancers from all backgrounds can access world-class training, regardless of financial means.

The Joffrey offers comprehensive support, including housing, dancewear, physical therapy, and stipends for its Studio Company dancers.

The Academy, under the leadership of Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE, has grown into a top ballet training institution, with graduates joining prestigious companies like Paris Opera Ballet and American Ballet Theatre. As of the 2024-25 season, one-third of Joffrey's company members are Academy alumni.

Joffrey President and CEO Greg Cameron described the Grainger Foundation’s contribution as a pivotal moment, not only advancing the institution but also inspiring hope for future students. Abbott Academy Director Suzanne Lopez echoed this sentiment, expressing deep gratitude for Grainger’s enduring generosity.

The Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet, located in Chicago's theater district, will continue its mission to provide world-class ballet education to students of all ages and backgrounds.

Founded in 2010, the Academy is the official school of The Joffrey Ballet. Located at the Exelon Education Center in Chicago, it provides top-tier ballet training to students from around the world.

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