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By Julieane Cook
MILWAUKEE, WI – More than 1,000 fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students from 35 Milwaukee-area classrooms are lacing up their dance shoes and stepping into the spotlight as Danceworks, Inc. celebrates the 20th anniversary of Mad Hot Rhythm, its beloved in-school dance education program in partnership with Milwaukee Public Schools and area schools.
What began in 2006 as a pilot in just three schools has grown into a citywide movement, serving over 40,000 students and introducing young dancers to an array of styles including African Jazz, Tango, Tap, Salsa, Waltz, Hip Hop, Swing, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Bollywood, and more. Each participating classroom receives 30 hours of professional instruction, tap shoes, and transportation to the culminating competition event – ensuring attendance and access regardless of financial barriers.
Anniversary Competition — Free and open to the public
This year’s milestone competition will be held Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at the UWM Panther Arena, generously hosted by the Wisconsin Center District. The event is free and open to all, inviting families, alumni, arts supporters, and the broader Milwaukee community to cheer on this year’s dancers and celebrate two decades of creativity, confidence, and community impact.
Community Education Director Jessica Fastabend shares, “The competition is my favorite event of the year. It is truly special to see the students enter the arena and experience a day just for them.” This year, the students are learning and performing African Jazz, Tango and Tap dance styles.
Alumni and teachers invited back to dance
In honor of the 20-year celebration, former students, classroom teachers, and past Danceworks staff are invited to return to the stage and participate in a special Alumni Tap or Swing Performance.
Practice videos will also be shared for those that want to learn and perform at the competition. Danceworks is also inviting alumni to reconnect by sharing their “Mad Hot Memories” and stories from years past. Fill out this form or reach out to jcook@danceworksmke.org with your memories and to be sent the practice videos.
For more information, please reach out to Julieane Cook, Executive Director of Danceworks jcook@danceworksmke.org. From classrooms to the big stage, Mad Hot Rhythm continues to spark joy, discipline, teamwork, and artistic expression across Milwaukee. The community is invited to attend, applaud, and help carry the rhythm into the next 20 years.
Danceworks, Inc, enhances the joy, health and creativity of our community through performances, classes and outreach activities integrating dance and other art forms. For more information about Danceworks Mad Hot, visit the Danceworks website at www.danceworksmke.org.
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