Make a date to dance Friday afternoons this fall!
From October 24 through and including November 21, 2025, new instructors every week will lead this sampler series of a kaleidoscope of techniques, styles, and approaches. Drawn from Chicago’s wealth of dance talent, visiting artists, as well as exceptional students and alums, this series is curated by current dance major Calme Brown.
All classes take place at the Dance Center and movers at all levels are welcome.
Come dance with us!
Chicago Stepping with Mr. Effortless
Friday November 21st, 2-3:20pm Room 300
“Evolving from the Bop, Swing, and the Jitterbug, Chicago Stepping has made its mark in Black culture and art. Stylized by intricate steps, dance partnership, and smooth movements, Chicago Stepping provides a space for connection and liberation at the same time.” Mr. Effortless aka Shaun Ballentine is teaching a basic eight count for Chicago Style Stepping as well as how to connect with a partner.
Shaun Ballentine, a native of Chicago, is an avid music and dance enthusiast who describes himself as having “come out of the womb dancing.” His lifelong passion for movement and rhythm led him to the art of Chicago Style Stepping, a dance form he both honors and modernizes with his creative flair. With no formal training, Shaun began dancing in childhood contests and continued performing throughout high school. His love of dance blossomed into teaching—first on the sidelines of local skating rinks, then from his home, and eventually in his own studio. Today, he proudly owns and operates Effortless Steppin’ Dance Studio, located on Chicago’s South Side, where he teaches weekly group classes and private lessons. Shaun’s choreography has been featured at weddings, special events, and live performances, including dancing alongside R&B artist Danny Boy on Daytime Chicago and at City Winery, and appearing as a special guest of Avery Sunshine. Known for his dynamic teaching style, he encourages students to connect deeply with the music, asking, “What else do you hear in the song?” to help them translate sound into expressive movement. Also recognized as @Mr_Effortlessly_Done on social media, Shaun travels nationwide sharing the joy and artistry of Stepping. His ultimate goal is to take this uniquely Chicago-born dance form to audiences around the world—teaching others not just how to move, but how to bring the music to life.
