2012 Effie Awards

Effie Awards in Theater & Dance
If you had the chance to meet her, Effie Mihopoulos was hard to forget. A warmhearted, enthusiastic human, she had an effusive and effervescent spirit. When she passed away on January 14, 2010, the world lost a poet, publisher, writer, dance critic, theatre critic, anti-war activist and overall promoter of the arts. A muse. And the much-loved Theater & Dance Coordinator for the Bucktown Arts Fest. These awards were established to honor her contribution to the arts. – Cathleen Schandelmeier-Bartels

The 2012 Effie Award for Best in Show Theater & Dance – Collaboraction Theatre
Dome of Doom Dance Off
www.collaboraction.org

Collaboraction celebrates its 15th year as a Chicago-based arts organization and remains focused on becoming a national leader of contemporary theater. By incorporating innovative artists and interdisciplinary collaboration, Collaboraction creates groundbreaking theatrical and art-based experiences. Presenting such smash hits as 2010’s Chicago premiere of “1001” by Jason Grote, 2008’s world premiere of “Jon” by George Saunders and directed by Seth Bockley, and 2007’s critically acclaimed production of “The Intelligent Design of Jenny Chow: an instant message with excitable music” by Rolin Jones, as well as the annual SKETCHBOOK Festival, Collaboraction has worked with more than 2,500 artists to bring more than 60 productions and events to more than 50,000 audience members. For more information, visit collaboraction.org.

The 2012 Effie Scholarship Award for Theater & Dance – Jane Albright
Hula Hooper Extraordinaire
www.sacredgrooves.com

Jane Albright is an abstract artist, poet and certified Hoopnotica Teacher residing in Chicago. She loves exploring all the joy of sharing hula hooping techniques and workouts with others. As an artist, life experiences always inspire Jane. They translate with an immense impact on the canvas. Jane’s works have appeared at Hotei Gallery and Wax Lounge, Rogers Park Artwalk, Ravenswood Art Walk, Glenwood Art Festival, and Chicago VeganMania. One of her creations can be seen on Ravenswood just south of Wilson on the back of the Ravenswood Art Walk sign. After having the option of dismantling the sign, she opted to share her piece with the Ravenswood community instead.