Kenneth von Heidecke

1952-2021

Kenneth von Heidecke, founder and chief choreographer of Chicago Festival ballet and School, passed away suddenly on December 11, 2021. Born on December 30, 1952, Von Heidecke began his career as a dancer, working his way through the ranks of many prominent companies. Most significantly, he was hand-chosen by legendary Prima Ballerina Assoluta Maria Tallchief to appear in the 1975 world premiere of George Balanchine’s Orfeo ed Euridice, a ground-breaking moment in his career. Over the years, Tallchief continued to coach Von Heidecke in the Balanchine repertoire and referred to him as her protégé.

Mr. von Heidecke was a brilliant choreographer, and an inspiration to the dance community. He was a renowned choreographer for opera and ballet companies around the world, having choreographed over 60 operas and 80 ballets. His vision and legacy will live on in the many dancers he taught and inspired through the years, and in the many students who continue to study and be inspired at VH Dance Center, which he left to his long-time student and school's director, Rachel Quinn.

To support the education and development of future dancers, and continue his legacy, tax deductible contributions are appreciated, and may be made to the Kenneth von Heidecke Memorial Scholarship fund, through our non-profit 501(c)(3) organization V H Ballet.

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Cinderella

Be part of our Memorial Spring Performance in honor of

Kenneth von Heidecke.

As part of the performance, we will be presenting Cinderella, one of his favorite ballets.

If you missed the January audition date, it's not too late. Don't miss auditions on February 6th. Auditions are free; masks are required and pre-registration recommended.

Welcome To VH Dance Center

Professional Ballet Training Since 1991

Pre-Professional Auditions

VH Dance Center’s Pre-Professional program has three levels and is designed for intermediate to advanced students who wish to pursue careers in professional dance. 2021-22 school year dates are August 16th to May 28th. Students attend 7-19 hours of instruction weekly, depending on the student's level. Besides studying Ballet technique, and Pre-pointe or Pointe, students also study Contemporary, and learn variations and repertoire to participate in Von Heidecke's Chicago Festival Ballet's Nutcracker, as well as VH Dance Center's Spring ballet performance.

Class options include Jazz, Character, Contemporary, and Acting Masterclasses.

Auditions are free, but preregistration is required. Students may enroll in the program at any point during the term, and tuition will be prorated. However, for new students, audition is required. Please contact us to schedule your audition!

Ages 12 and up: Choose Monday or Wednesday, 4:30 - 6:30pm, or Tuesday, Thursday or Friday 5:00-7:30pm;
Ages 8 - 11: Choose Monday or Wednesdays 4:30 to 6:30pm or Saturday1-3pm

Auditions may be in-person or video

In-person auditions may be scheduled by phone or online:

To schedule online:

Choose 'Register Now' below
Log into your account or create an account
Choose Register for classes
Choose Summer 2021
Choose Pre Professional Audition.
Select Schedule trial, and choose your Audition date.

Video Auditions

Upload recorded video auditions to YouTube or Vimeo, and include dancer's name and age in the title.

For YouTube, post as unlisted and email the link to info@vhdancecenter.com.

For Vimeo, email the log in and password to info@vhdancecenter.com.

Videos must be no more than 3 months old and must include the following:

All en pointe if applicable

Combinations to be included at barre:

Plie including grand plie and relevé balance
Tendus
Rond de jambes
Grand battements

Combinations in the center:

Adagio, include développé, penché, promenade
Pirouettes, including en dehors and en dedans
Petite Allegro, including battu jumps
Grand Allegro
Optional: Variation of your choice

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Our Story

More About VH Dance Center

VH Dance Center is located in Aurora, Illinois where dancers begin instruction as young as 3 years of age. Our school specializes in professional ballet training in the Balanchine style, while also promoting positive body image and building self esteem. Classes offered include classical ballet as well as multiple other styles of dance to provide a well rounded dance education. Our program is ideal for dancers looking to pursue a professional career in ballet.

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Embrace Your Love of Dance

Our Program

Your quest for the perfect Ballet Academy can end right here. Our extensive list of classes includes many types of dance and a variety of skill levels, so rest assured there’s an option that’s perfect for you. We’re constantly updating our offerings, so check back often to make sure you don’t miss out on a new dance opportunity.

Children's Ballet

Led by a dedicated team of instructors, dancers ranging from age 2 through intermediate level begin with basic ballet steps and gradually transition to more advanced technique and prepointe in these classes. Classes encourage dancers to grow in skill and love of ballet, as they are gradually prepared for advanced level classes. Interested in learning more? Get in contact with a member of our team, we’re happy to answer any questions.

Advanced Ballet Classes

Advanced level students continue to study technique and pointe in the Balanchine style class. Performance opportunities with Von Heidecke's Chicago Festival Ballet are offered as an additional opportunity for dancers. Our amazing instructors make sure students get individual attention. Want to find out more? Get in touch with us today.

Pre-Professional Program

Our Pre-Professional Program is designed for the intermediate through advanced level student interested in a professional career in dance. Besides intermediate through advanced level ballet, curriculum includes contemporary dance, and performance opportunities with a professional company. Classes in Character, Jazz, and Hip Hop are encouraged. Instructors with professional backgrounds, who give dancers meticulous attention, and methodical analysis of technique help students achieve their highest potential. Instructors are committed to giving each student attention while also moving the class forward. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about this program or any others - simply contact us or stop by.

Special Programs

Whether you’re looking to learn new dance moves, hone in on your existing talent, or work on getting in shape these classes are what you are looking for. Classes offered include Ballet for Figure Skaters I & II, Adult/Teen Beginning Ballet, Character, Contemporary, Jazz I, Jazz/Hip Hop (intermediate/advanced). Fitness classes include WERQ Fitness and Strong by Zumba. The instructors are committed to giving each student attention while also moving the class forward. Our dedicated instructors are ready to answer any questions about our classes - simply contact us or stop by.