Giordano Dance Chicago hosted its 15th annual ballroom dance competition, dubbed Dancing with the Giordano Stars, to raise funds to support its company operations, Jazz Dance/Science & Health outreach program, and jazz dance advocacy and mentorship programs.
Highprofile judges included Candace Jordan, associate publisher of Chicago Star Media and author of the Candid Candace blog; Ashley Wheater, the Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director of the Joffrey Ballet; and drag entertainer and former Miss Gay Metropolitan America Pixel. Professional GDC dancers were paired with members of the city’s civic, social and business communities, including Courtney Eisen Burk, Robb Leone, Randi Whitman and more.
Head of ADR Conversion Trading at BTIG Shaun Gallagher, partnering with GDC’s Katie Rafferty, claimed the title of best male dancer, and Rachel Kohl, alongside GDC’s Ryan Galloway, was named best female dancer. The lively event raised over $208,000 and ended with an open dance party for all.
Adam Houston and Courtney Eisen Burk
Shaun Gallagher with GDC Dancer Katie Rafferty
Ryan Jacobson and Jacki Hydock
Guests cheered on the contestants.
Ryan Baker, Candace Jordan, Pixel and Ashley Wheater
Beth Ann Papoutsis and Zachary Heller
Dr. Hilel Swerdlin and Amanda Hickey
Photography by: PHOTO BY BETH ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY
