Dance North Texas February - April 2024

DANCE

INSIDE: In The Spotlight: Rhonda Miller Dancing in Underserved Communities 50th Anniversary Party Photos!

Seasonal Performances + More

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NORTH TEXAS

FEBRUARY - APRIL 2024 A Dance Council of North Texas Production thedancecouncil.org

STUDY WITH THE STARS At The Dallas Conservatory

SUMMER 2024

International Dance Intensive 2024 JUN 3-21 + JUL 22-AUG 9 Choose 1-6 weeks | Beginning - Advanced Ages 8-22 (ages as of July 1) Ballet + Contemporary, plus Pointe, Variations, Pas de Deux, Character and Pilates for upper levels.

YAGP Outstanding School 2016-23

AUDITIONS February 11 | Frisco February 18 | Kansas City March 17 | Boca Raton

March 24 | Dallas April 28 | Castle Hills

Digital Applications Accepted

TheDallasConservatory.org @TheDallasConservatory_Dance

DANCE NORTH TEXAS FEBRUARY - APRIL 2024

CONTENTS 4

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: RHONDA MILLER

8

DANCING IN UNDER-SERVED COMMUNITIES

12

DCNT CELEBRATES 50 YEARS!

16

SEASONAL PERFORMANCES + MORE

FROM THE PRESIDENT...

Greetings, Dance Enthusiasts!

It’s already February and next up on the Dance Council’s list of events is the eagerly anticipated Dance Planet 27. The Hockaday School is the venue again and this year’s guest artist is none other than Rhonda Miller, head of the BFA Commercial Dance Program at PACE University’s Sands College of Performing Arts. We look forward to an exciting day of performances and classes.

Don’t forget, the Scholarship deadline is February 9th. We invite students aged 13 to 21 (unless otherwise stated) to apply for financial awards to support their summer study endeavors. For detailed requirements and application guidelines, visit https://dancecouncil. clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=752324&module_ id=109136.

Dance Council celebrated its 50th Birthday on January 6th at the Sammons Center for the Arts’ Meadows Hall. Dancers and studio owners past and present turned out for the event and enjoyed visiting with one another, checking out all the memorabilia, watching scholarship dancers perform, and learning some contra dance steps.

Party photos can be viewed on pages 12 and 13.

COVER: Giordano Dance Chicago photo by Todd Rosenberg

DANCE is published quarterly by the Dance Council of North Texas and is available online. Articles of interest to the community, performance calendar information, letters to the editor, and press releases are welcome.

And as always, we, at Dance Council, are dedicated to supporting our members in every way possible. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let us embark on this season together, celebrating the artistry, passion, and camaraderie that define the heart of dance.

EDITOR Mair Cawston CONTRIBUTORS Tina Washington + Katie Puder Go to thedancecouncil.org to: Join Dance Council of North Texas or renew an existing membership, sign up for CenterStage, DCNT’s weekly eblast delivered to your inbox each Wednesday, get information about advertising opportunities or donate to DCNT!

Dance Council of North Texas | 3630 Harry Hines Blvd | Dallas | TX 75219 214 219-2290 director@thedancecouncil.org | thedancecouncil.org DANCE COUNCIL SPONSORS THE MCDERMOTT FOUNDATION THE REA CHARITABLE TRUST

TARTAGLINO RICHARDS FAMILY TRUST

P.S. Don’t forget to check out CenterStage for dance auditions, performances, jobs and more! Sign up here: signup.e2ma.net/sign up/1827774/1782200/. Find us at thedancecouncil.org, on facebook.com/dancecouncilofnorthtexas, and instagram.com/ dancecouncilntx.

IN THE SPOTLIGH

RHONDA MILLER A Q+A with the Creator + Director of the First BFA Commercial Dance Program in the US

4 • DANCE NORTH TEXAS • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

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DCNT: Hi Rhonda. Tell us a little about yourself— where you grew up and your dance training.

RM: I grew up in Towson, MD and studied Ballet, Tap and Jazz in the area. I got my BFA in Ballet with Musical Theater emphasis from the University of Utah and then went on to earn my Masters in Vocal Performance/Directing from Oklahoma City University. I moved to LA after I got my Masters and studied with all of the LA dance greats! Roland Dupree, Joe Tremaine, Jackie Sleight, Carol Connors, Bill Goodson, Hama to name a few.

DCNT: Who do you credit with making you a great dancer, teacher, and choreographer?

RM: I would like to acknowledge Jo Rowan for her guidance in my training as a dancer and for giving me tips as a teacher. Choreographically, I really studied so many of the greats! Bob Fosse, Michael Bennet, Jerome Robbins Michael Kidd, Michael Peters, Ona White, Gene Kelley and Fred Astaire to name a few. Watching all of their work on film and in the theater was truly an inspiration in so many ways.

DCNT: You have had an extensive career in the commercial world in all three professions—which do you prefer?

RM: I have enjoyed my successes in all areas. Each one is quite unique and fulfilling in their own ways. I do think it was important to have had a performing career, then move into teaching which helps to make a good choreographer.

They are all intertwined.

DCNT: As a choreographer which is more difficult: for live shows or for film?

RM: Both are equally challenging. When choreographing for Stage work you need to approach the material from the proscenium approach where you see all aspects occurring at the same time. You can isolate moments with lighting and staging but overall the whole picture is happening at the same time. If you are choreographing a musical, then the story becomes the most important part of the equation.

For Film, it is important to understand what the camera can do to enhance the overall vision of the “piece/number”.

This information is imperative to creating good work for the camera. The more you know about how the “dance’ is being shot, the more precise you can be with what you want the audience to see and absorb.

DCNT: What path led you to becoming the creator and director of the first titled BFA Commercial Dance program at Pace University, Sands College of Performing Arts?

RM: I originally was asked to be a guest teacher one day for a dance class in the Musical Theater program at Pace.

This quickly led to an adjunct position in the MT program. I then wrote a dance minor which was extremely successful, became a lecturer, wrote a BA program with a Commercial dance concentration, and then it was discussed that I write the BFA Commercial Dance degree. I explained that there were already many successful Ballet and Modern programs in higher education, but the area that was lacking was the world of Commercial Dance. To me, Commercial Dance encompasses “every” style of dance needed to earn a living in the dance community. I believe that earning a living in the chosen field of dance is imperative! Whether it be a Modern or Contemporary company, Broadway,

TV, Film, Vegas shows, Cruise Line shows or dancing with a musical artist, the goal is to earn a paycheck. Pace administration was on board with this thinking and the rest is history!

DCNT: What skills do you think are needed to become a great commercial dancer?

RM: Versatility and knowing as many genres of dance as possible, Passion, Persistence and an understanding of what skills are needed for the many types of dance jobs in the field.

DCNT: We notice that Choreography and Dance on Camera are offered at PACE University. Tell us about the courses and why you think they’re important.

RM: The skills needed to Dance on Camera expand way beyond just being a great dancer! We explore all different types of projects that can happen on camera and how to execute the necessary skills needed to audition for and hopefully book these on camera projects.

Choreography for the Camera is essential because once you understand how the material is being filmed you can be more effective while dancing on camera. If you want to be a TV Film Choreographer down the line, knowing the lingo, lenses used , types of cameras etc will put you way ahead of others who don’t have this knowledge.

DCNT: Are you thinking of retiring any time soon? What would that look like?

RM: HA! NO! I am not even close to considering the thought of retirement, still too much to accomplish and give back to the dance world!

5 • DANCE NORTH TEXAS • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

DANCE!

LAKECITIES BALLET THEATRE PRESENTS Artistic Director Kelly Kilburn Lannin

Coppélia

Nancy Loch Photography

APRIL 7, 2024 | THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL Register to Perform in the

11AM - 5PM Performance Showcase Go to thedancecouncil.org!

6 • DANCE NORTH TEXAS • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

LEWISVILLE GRAND THEATER Friday, April 5 at 7:30 pm Saturday, April 6 at 7:30 pm Sunday, April 7 at 2:00 pm

DCNT scholarship recipient Mya Davis photo by @ashkanimage

scholarships

dance council of north texas

Summer study scholarships for exceptional dancers who demonstrate ability, artistry and passion.

Texas residency not required!

Deadline February 9, 2024.

7 • DANCE NORTH TEXAS • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

CHANGING LIVE ONE STEP AT A TIME DANCE ARTS GAIN STRENGTH IN UNDER-SERVED COMMUNITIES

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A CHANCE 2 DANCE

A Chance to Dance (AC2D), is an innovative outreach program produced by Dance Council of North Texas (DCNT) to introduce at-risk communities to the joy and vitality of dance and movement—achieving benefit through inclusion-based arts in an open environment in which all abilities can participate. In addition, the program provides an opportunity to improve social skills, confidence, self-control and focus, as well as the ability to participate in a group setting.

The program seeks to work with children and adults that have experienced life-altering events such as homelessness, exposure to drug abuse, sex-trafficking, domestic violence, and more. Instructors certified in psychological and physical trauma work with the most vulnerable groups. (continued on page 10)

9 • DANCE NORTH TEXAS • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

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Currently AC2D teaches hip hop classes at New Friends New Life - a nonprofit that restores and empowers trafficked + sexually exploited teen girls, women + their children, and drives awareness of the issue and the TR Hoover Community Center - its mission is to strengthen, empower, and provide holistic, collaborative services that impact the South Dallas community through affordable housing, economic, and community development. Plans are in the works to resume classes at the Juanita Craft Recreation Center in the Fair Park area for the summer and to offer new classes at The Boys and Girls Club in the Oak Cliff neighborhood.

ABOVE THE CLOUDS Above The Clouds (ATC) is a faith-based national arts education program providing free classes to children ages 5-17 who otherwise would not have the opportunity to do so.

The organization originated in the inner city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, after founder Linda Wade visited with women in prison, realizing that many inmates had troubled childhoods. Wade wanted to use her love for dance to invest in children so they could safely express themselves in a more positive, faith-based way.

ATC eventually expanded into Texas, with its first class offering in 2022.

Along with this expansion came Tina Washington, director of Above the Clouds Texas, whom Wade met while Washington was ministering to women in prison.

ATC offers classes in beginning and intermediate ballet, drama, hiphop, modern dance, and theatre. All are free of charge for each student, including classes, shoes and costumes. Class sizes are intentionally kept small to provide the best student experience, averaging 12-15 students per class/instructor, depending on the age group.

Dance instructors are professionally trained and are paid as contracted employees through generous supporters and grants. Additionally, the instructors are faith-led. Each class begins with prayer. The music is either classical, contemporary Christian, or beats. Dancers are not forced to participate but staff want them to know that they are there for the children but also for their families and any needs that they might have.

Currently, ATC offers classes in three locations: LVTRise Community Center, William M. McDonald YMCA, and the Leadership Academy at Forest Oak Middle School in Fort Worth. Plans to expand into Dallas are forthcoming, hopefully in the Fall of 2024.

The next semester begins February 5th and classes fill up fast. Families can contact Mrs. Tina at abovethecloudstexas@gmail.com or call 469967-4838.

The nonprofit has many ways to get involved, including sponsoring a child, volunteering by assisting the instructors, participating in community events, spreading the word, and more.

FIRST STEPS

In the summer of 2023, Avant Chamber Ballet (ACB) announced a new extension of First Steps, their free outreach classes for dancers up to age 14. The classes launched in the fall at South Dallas Cultural Center’s dance studio and at the Avant Chamber Ballet studio.

“We are launching a new model for how dancers can train,” says ACB artistic director Katie Puder. “Training has become so expensive and excludes many people because they literally can’t afford it. Our goal is that any child who wants to dance, can do it no matter their background.”

The program First Steps started in 2021 with introductory creative movement classes once a week for ages 4-7 at Klyde Warren Park and has quickly grown to teach hundreds of dancers each year across the city with all classes at capacity. The new extension in the fall hopes to reach many more students, including dancers who are interested in pre-professional ballet training. The 2023-24 schedule is as follows: South Dallas Cultural Center: Ages 5 - 7 Wednesday and Friday from 4 4:45PM | Ages 7-9 Wednesday and Friday from 5 - 6PM | Avant Chamber Ballet: Ages 5 - 7 Saturdays 9 - 9:45AM | Intermediate Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 4:30 - 6PM. Klyde Warren Park and Oak Cliff Cultural Center classes start after spring break.

First Steps is made possible by funding from Communities Foundation of Texas, Fichtenbaum Charitable Trusts, and the City of Dallas Office of Arts & Culture. Information available online at avantchamberballet.org.

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AUDITIONS

Adaptive Dance: A ChanceAtoDCNT Dance MEMBER TODAY! BECOME Ongoing Membership Levels:

Student $30 (Full-time) Senior $30 (age 65+) Dallas Dance Film Festival Individual $40 November 17, 2022

Household $75 (2 individuals at the same address) Organizations $90 (studios, dance companies, retail, businesses) Summer Studyschools, Scholarships Large Organizations $120 ($250 K+ annual budget) February 9th Yearly Sponsor $100 - $499 Patron $500 - $999 $1000 + Dance PlanetBenefactor 26

Membership Benefits for All Members Include: April 15, 2023 • Priority Registration & Discounts to DCNT Performances,

DANCE NT Events + Master Classes for Student Scholarships Quarterly•• Eligibility Publication

Photo by Kent Barker

March 1. Bruce Wood Dance Audition. 10AM-3PM | Call-backs: Saturday, March, 2. Register by February 15: Send resume, headshot and dance reel to audition@brucewooddance.org | brucewooddance. org/audition-2024.

Classically trained professional ballet dancers with a strong contemporary background are invited to apply for Ballet Papillon’s 2024-2025 season. Dancers ages 18 and above who are U.S. citizens or hold the required visa are encouraged to send their resume, headshot, dance shots, and reel to balletpapillon@gmail.com. The season will include multiple debut productions and thrilling original works from both guest and in house choreographers. Learn more about the company by visiting balletpapillon.org.

Access to Teaching Opportunities •CenterStage Discounts at DanceWeekly Businesses + Select Dance Performances • Free Subscription to DCNT’s Weekly E-newsletter, CenterStage Email Newsletter • Recognition on the DCNT Website • Voting Privileges at DCNT Annual Meeting (Except Student Level) Advertising • DCNT Membership Card Opportunities • Discounts on Space Rental at Sammons Center for the Arts • Discounts on Select Studio Rentals Around the Metroplex

Membership Benefits for Organization Members Also Include:

• Free Performance/Event/Job Listings in CenterStage + On the DCNT Website • Free Info Links on DCNT Web Pages; ‘Find a Dance Studio’ + ‘Find a Dance Link’ • Discounted Intensive Listings in DCNT Quarterly Publication • Access to Performance Opportunities, Many with Stipends • Advertising Discounts

To join DCNT, sign-up online at: thedancecouncil.org.

For more information, visit thedancecouncil.org, or contact Mair Cawston at maircawston@yahoo.com.

CONTEMPORARY WEST DANCE THEATRE Founder/Artistic Director Bernard H. Gaddis

One Performance Only Sat, Mar. 30 at 8 PM EisemannCenter.com • Ticket Office: 972.744.4650 Follow us: @eisemanncenter Eisemann Center for Performing Arts • 2351 Performance Dr., Richardson, TX 75082

DANCE!

APRIL 7TH, 2024 | THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL with Guest Artist Rhonda Miller, PACE University

9AM - NOON: High Intermediate to Advanced Jazz for 14 Years Old + Up, Mock Audition + Critiques 2 - 3PM: Intermediate to Advanced Jazz for 9 - 13 Year Olds 11AM - 5PM: Performance Showcase More at thedancecouncil.org!

PERFORMANCES

FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

February 23. Orchestra of New Spain presents Atlas Tango Project with dancers of Parasol Arts in Angels & Devils. Atlas Tango Project is a group of 5 musicians specializing in the Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla and original nuevo tango compositions.

In choreography by Lorita Travaglia (Denver Ballet) a sultry, irresistible Diablo, and a luminous, ethereal Angel are danced by classically trained ballet dancers in a thrilling mashup of tango and ballet, while two tango couples represent the mortals in this story of darkness and light. Event includes Tango di Tango by UTD‘s Robert Xavier Rodriguez and Dallas tango stars: Evolution Tango with George & Jairelbhi Furlong, TangoAmor with Nasrin Barmaki and Marc Hernandez. A free Tango class takes place one hour before the show followed by a Milonga for the audience following concert. 8PM | Moody Performance Hall. 2520 Flora Street, Dallas TX | $70, $50, $35, students $10 | Ticketdfw.com 214-871-5000 | February 2 - 3. TITAS/DANCE UNBOUND Presents Rennie Further information at Orchestra of New Spain: 214-750-1492 Harris Puremovement. Formed in 1992 by Dr. Rennie Harris, Contact person: Freya Bergren at 214-696-1012.

Puremovement – American Street Dance Theater has emerged as an international Hip-hop and Street dance ambassador. Known for creating work that utilizes hip-hop movement, as well as finding its voice in theater, Harris pioneers a new genre, while bringing hip-hop culture to the proscenium stage. Hailed as an Elizabethan masterpiece, Rome & Jewels is based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, reimagined in the streets of Philadelphia. Rome & Jewels won 3 Bessie Awards, a Shakespeare Theater Award, and a nomination for United Kingdom’s prestigious Lawrence Olivier award, to name just a few. 8:00PM | Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora Street, Dallas, TX | attpac.org.

February 8 - 11. Accompanied by the timeless melodies of Pyotr Ilych Tchaikovsky, Ballet North Texas brings forth a production of Sleeping Beauty that encapsulates the very essence of traditional ballet technique and the art of storytelling through mime. Prepare to be captivated by this tale that explores the eternal struggle between forces of good and evil, as the curse inflicted upon Princess Aurora by the malevolent fairy Carabosse is transformed by the selfless gift of the Lilac Fairy and the promise of true love’s kiss from a noble Prince. Don’t miss the opportunity to be swept away by the magic and beauty of Sleeping Beauty, where artistry and narrative intertwine to create an unforgettable ballet experience. February 8 (Sensory Friendly Performance) at 2PM | February 9 - 10 at 8PM | February 11 at 2PM | balletnorthtexas.org/ sleeping-beauty.

February 9 - 10. DBDT presents Cultural Awareness. Celebrate the richness of cultural diversity as we explore the interplay of movement, rhythm, and expression from around the world woven together by the unifying language of dance. 7:30PM | Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St, Dallas, TX | dbdt.com.

March 1. A Golden Evening of Dance Gala Performance. Join Texas Youth Ballet for an original production of Firebird, a world premiere of Take One! by guest choreographer, Sebastian Vinet, and more. Gala Celebration in Bank of America Hall with hot hors d’oeuvres, bar and Silent Auction. 7:30PM | $20, $30, with a $60 add-on for the Gala Reception | Eisemann Center - Bank of America Theatre | eisemanncenter.com/event/i/10016/d/a-goldenevening-of-dance.

February 17 & 18. Star Crossed: Swan Lake Act 2 + Romeo & Juliet. For the Valentine’s season, Avant Chamber Ballet presents an evening of live orchestra and ballet masterpieces telling tales of romance and enchantment, true love and sacrifice. This triple bill features George Balanchine’s Walpurgisnacht Ballet, Swan Lake Act 2 and Paul Mejia’s Romeo & Juliet. Tickets start at $30| February 17 at 7PM | February 18 at 2PM | Moody Performance Hall, Dallas, TX. February 17 & 18. Ballet Frontier presents Romeo & Juliet. A heartbreaking tale of young love and loss set to one of ballet’s favorite scores. Ballet Frontier’s world-premier of Romeo & Juliet choreographed by Artistic Director Chung Lin Tseng to Sergei Prokofiev’s iconic score, is a classic adaptation of the familiar story that routinely brings the audience to tears. I.M. Terrell Performing Arts Center, 1900 IM Terrell Way, Ft Worth, TX | February 17 at 7:30PM | February 18 at 2PM | buy.ticketstothecity.com.

16 • DANCE NORTH TEXAS • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

Ballet Frontier

March 27. Dancing Beyond Borders. DBDT: Encore! transcends borders and boundaries in a stunning display of contemporary modern dance. Prepare to embark on a journey that explores the intersection of grace, athleticism, and artistry. 7:30PM | Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Dr, Richardson, TX | dbdt.com.

and inspired audiences around the world for over a decade. 8PM | Hill Performance Hall. Get tickets at eisemanncenter.com or 972.744.4650. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson, TX.

Photo by Cathy Vanover

March 3. Dallas Ballet Company presents En Avant.

Performances feature works by choreographers Carter Alexander, Jason Fowler, and Christina Ghiardi. 3PM | Granville Arts Center in Garland | dallasballetcompany.org/season.

March 15 - 16. Always a TITAS Favorite, Parsons Dance always delivers! Known for its energized, athletic, and joyous style, Parsons Dance is internationally renowned for creating and performing contemporary American dance. Their bold works and distinctive style have solidified them as one of the world’s leading dance companies. Works, like Caught, one of the world’s most famous solos, exemplify this company’s innovation and huge audience appeal.

Parsons Dance is always a favorite that is sure to thrill audiences with their amazing energy and stunning dancers. 8PM | Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, TX | attpac.org/event/parsons-dance?utm_ source=DanceCouncil&utm_medium=Listing&utm_ campaign=Digital.

March 29. TITAS/DANCE UNBOUND presents Giordano Dance Chicago. Jazz dance is Photo by Cathy Vanover quintessentially American, and Giordano Dance March 30.

Ballet Ensemble presents Ballet Chicago is America’s original jazz dance company.

Celebrating 60 years of commitment to and Ensemble of Texas presents Alice in Wonderland. 3PM expansion of jazz dance. GDC has toured worldwide. | Tickets at coppellartscenter.org or 972-304-7047.

Powerful, passionate and elegant, GDC occupies a singular position within the local, national, and international dance communities. Jazz dance owes so much to this exciting company. 8PM | Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, TX | attpac.org/event/giordano-dance-chicago?utm_ source=DanceCouncil&utm_medium=Listing&utm_ campaign=Digital.

March 29 - 30. Women’s Choreography Project.

Avant Chamber Ballet presents an exciting evening of world premieres and commissions with live music in an intimate setting that lets you experience dance up close and meet the artists after the performance.

The ticket price includes a post-performance reception with an open bar and appetizers with the artists. Seating is limited to just 100 guests. March 29 at 7:30PM | March 30 at 7:30PM | Sammons Center for the Arts, Dallas, TX.

March 30. Eisemann Center presents Contemporary March 16. Dancing Beyond Borders. DBDT: Encore! West Dance Theatre, a multicultural nonprofit transcends borders and boundaries in a stunning organization that was founded by Alvin Ailey protege display of contemporary modern dance. Prepare to Bernard H. Gaddis and Charmaine Hunter. The embark on a journey that explores the intersection company has a dance methodology that integrates of grace, athleticism, and artistry. 7:30PM | W.E. Scott classical and modern paradigms with an athleticism Theatre, 1300 Gendy St, Fort Worth, TX | dbdt.com. that gives audiences a more profound dance March 23. Ballet Papillon at the Addison Conference experience. CWDT dancers are passionate, relatable and Theatre Centre | onthestage.tickets/show/ballet- and highly skilled and have been bringing virtuoso performances to the stage that have excited papillon/64b84d3b29694d0e39e09d75.

Photo by Nancy Loch

April 5 - 6. Coppélia closes LakeCities Ballet Theatre’s 40th Anniversary season finale. This fanciful full-length, delightfully funny and familyfriendly ballet takes the stage April 5th and 6th at 7:30 pm, and April 7th at 2:00 pm in Lewisville, featuring LBT Alum, Steven Loch Principal Dancer with the Miami City Ballet. Performances will be held at the Lewisville Grand Theater, located in old town Lewisville. For more information, visit lakecitiesballet. org. Tickets will be available online.

PERFORMANCES

FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

April 19 - 21. DBDT: Encore! presents Rising Excellence. Glimpse into the future of dance with our Encore company! Featuring innovative choreography and performances by some of the most talented emerging artists in the field, our internationally recognized company members embody the next generation of artistic greatness.

Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, TX | dbdt.com.

April 20 - 21. Director’s Choice. Join Ballet Frontier for an exciting and dynamic performance of hand-selected works curated by Artistic Director Chung Lin Tseng. This program is family-friendly and great for all ages! The production will include Carnival of the Animals and more! Join us for an unforgettable performance! April 20 at 7:30PM | April 2 at 2PM | IM Terrell Auditorium, 1900 IM Terrell Way, Fort Worth, TX | buy.ticketstothecity.com/venue.php?org_id=74.

April 20. Avant Chamber Ballet presents Ballet In The Park, a free performance with live music. The show is family-friendly and welcomes all ages! Following the performance, children are welcome to stay and be a part of a 10 minute interactive dance class!

The performance will include classical ballet excerpts as well as new works. Pianist Kamilya Akhmetova will accompany the dancers from Avant Chamber Ballet main company and the ACB Trainees. 3 - 4PM | Klyde Warren Park, Dallas.

Photo by Cathy Vanover

April 6 - 7. Ballet Ensemble presents An Evening of Ballet including Mikhail Fokine’s Les Sylphides (accompanied by Steven Mitchell and Steven Lu), George Skibine’s Daphnis & Chloe, Jenny Johnston’s Symphonic Moves, and Thom Clower’s Alice in Wonderland. April 6 at 7PM | April 7 at 2PM | Tickets at irvingartscenter.com or 972252-2787.

April 7. Ballet Papillon presents Monarch: A Beautiful Beginning.

2:30PM | Plano Courtyard Theater | onthestage.tickets/show/ ballet-papillon/64b84d3b29694d0e39e09d75.

April 12 - 13. Pegasus Contemporary Ballet will be back at the historic Kalita Humphreys Theater in collaboration with The Writers Garret for a one-of-a-kind evening of dance and poetry. Tickets at pegasusballet.org. Student discounts available.

April 12 - 13. TITAS/DANCE UNBOUND presents Vertigo. Established in Jerusalem over 27 years ago by Noa Wertheim and Adi Sha’al, their choreographic works, a blend of modern dance and classical ballet continues to captivate audiences around the globe. Making their Dallas Debut, their new work, Makom, meaning “place” in Hebrew, describes a real or imaginary location. It can also be a spiritual refuge, a home, wherever. Vertigo’s Makom promises to be a Season Favorite. 8PM | Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, TX | attpac.org/event/vertigo?utm_source=DanceCouncil&utm_ medium=Listing&utm_campaign=Digital.

18 • DANCE NORTH TEXAS • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

April 27 - 28. Ballet North Texas presents Sonata. Experience the grand culmination of the season with a remarkable performance that encapsulates the rich history of dance. Prepare to be moved by a multitude of styles, from the raw and visceral to the compassionate and enchanting. April 27 at 8PM | April 28 at 2PM | balletnorthtexas. org/sonata.

April 27. Ballet North Texas presents My First Classic - Sleeping Beauty. Discover the magic of ballet through My First Classic – a groundbreaking community project dedicated to sharing timeless tales with audiences across DFW. The immersive performances extend beyond the stage, inviting you to delve into the magic through narrations, interactive ballet pantomime and dance lessons, ballet demonstrations, and engaging Q&A sessions. Moody Performance Hall. 2PM | balletnorthtexas.org/myfirstclassic.

April 27. TITAS/DANCE UNBOUND Presents Command Performance. Artists from leading companies light up the stage with spectacular, surprising jaw-dropping performances. It is the pyrotechnics of dance—the most exciting, innovative and beautiful works being performed today. Command Performance also features TITAS/DANCE UNBOUND commissioned works created specifically for this gala performance; works by some of the world’s leading choreographers. 6PM | Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, TX | attpac.org/event/command-performance?utm_ source=DanceCouncil&utm_medium=Listing&utm_ campaign=Digital.

DANCE DIRECTORY

COPPELL BALLET ACADEMY OF TEXAS

145 Fitness Ct, Coppell TX 75019 972-745-0199 Balletacademyoftexas. com. Director, Tammie Reinsch Professional training for ages 2 ½ - Adult Ballet, Pointe, Pas de Deux, Jazz, Contemporary, Modern, Tap, Coaching and Professional Preparatory Program.

Alumni performing with national and international companies, including American Ballet Theatre.

Home of Ballet Ensemble of Texas Artistic Director, Thom Clower Balletensembleoftexas.org

DALLAS AVANT CHAMBER BALLET Train for your career, not competitions ACB Trainees - professional training for ages 14 and up. First Steps - low-cost classes for ages 4-8. 2408 Farrington St, Dallas, TX 75207 avantchamberballet.org, info@avantchamberballet.org CONTEMPORARY BALLET DALLAS

Lindsay DiGiuseppe, Director & Owner.

Year round Professional Training in a positive Environment in the Heart of Dallas. Classes for all ages: 18mos-Adult in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, pointe, modern, contemporary, creative movement, parent & me; pre-professional program; Youth Ballet, Tap & Hip hop Companies; Largest adult selection of dance classes in Dallas, Located at Central Expressway & Mockingbird Ln. Dallas, TX 214-821-2066 www.contemporaryballetdallas.com admin2@schoolofcbd.com

DALLAS BALLET CENTER

Judy and Brent Klopfenstein, Artistic Directors. 8530 Abrams Rd, Ste 608, Dallas, TX 214.348.3224 dallasballetcenter.com info@dallasballetcenter.com

DALLAS BALLET COMPANY

DBC Tap Connection & DBC Contemporary Company. Judy & Brent Klopfenstein, Artistic Directors. 8530 Abrams Road, Ste 608, Dallas, TX dallasballetcompany.org info@dallasballetcompany.org

THE DALLAS CONSERVATORY

(Dallas and Frisco campuses) Jacqueline Porter, Artistic Director.

Now in its 15th anniversary year, 7-time YAGP Outstanding School Winner offers world-class facilities and instruction for 18 months to Adult in ballet, pointe,

partnering, variations, contemporary, jazz, modern, hip hop, theatre dance, ballroom, tap, acro, Bollywood, singing, acting, musical theater, TV/Film and fitness. Our graduates are at Juilliard, USC, and work professionally in dance and theater. Classes for absolute beginners through professional. • NEW Commercial Program ages 8-22 led by world renowned Blake McGrath • Classical Training Program for 14-22, daytime with optional housing • 5 performing companies for recreational and pre-pro students with varying price and commitment • Public Master Class Series • International Summer Dance Intensives at 5 levels • 15 dance studios + 3 voice studios available to rent • Frisco Square, Dallas, Lewisville-Castle Hills locations. //TheDallasConservatory.org

DENTON DENTON DANCE CONSERVATORY

Lisa Racina-Torre, Owner/Director.

Ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, contemporary, hip-hop, Pilates, Ages 3-Adult. Home of Denton City Contemporary Ballet. 4103 Mesa Dr, Denton, TX 940.383.2623 Director@dentondance.com dentondance.com

FT WORTH BALLET CENTER OF FORT WORTH Artistic Director Enrica & Chung-Lin Tseng. 6132 Overton Ridge Blvd, Ft Worth, TX 76132 817.423.9888 balletcenterfortworth.com balletcenter_fw@yahoo.com

MARGO DEAN SCHOOL OF BALLET

Home of Ballet Concerto. Ballet for all ages & levels, flamenco & Jazz dance.

3803 Camp Bowie Blvd, Ft Worth, TX 76107 817.738.7915 webster_dean@att. net margodeanballet.com balletconcerto.com

TEXAS BALLET THEATER SCHOOL —FORT WORTH

The official school of Texas Ballet Theater offers programs ranging from beginner ballet to elite professional training, ages 3 and up. Classes also include jazz and tap, as well as adult classes. | 1500 Mall Circle, Ft Worth, TX 76116 | 817-763-0207 | fwschool@ texasballet.org | texasballettheater.org texasballettheater.org

LEWISVILLE THE BALLET CONSERVATORY

Home of Lake Cities Ballet Theatre Kelly Lannin, Director. 1400 FM 407, Lewisville, TX 75077 972.317.0194.

balletconservatory.com lakecitiesballet.org. 4-time YAGP Outstanding School. 4-time YAGP Best Teacher Award

MCKINNEY TEXAS YOUTH BALLET: CONSERVATORY AND COMPANY 901 N. McDonald St, Suite 705.

Boutique ballet conservatory, highlevel ballet training includes pas de deux, men’s program. Frequent guest instructors. Jennifer Dulin, Artistic Director 214-477-9434 texasyouthballet.org

PLANO CHAMBERLAIN BALLET

Pre-professional Dance Company.

Kathy Chamberlain, Artistic Director 1404 Gables Court, Suite 101, Plano TX 214-412-8589 ChamberlainBallet.Org

CHAMBERLAIN SCHOOL OF BALLET Kathy Chamberlain, Director.

Classical ballet, jazz, tap,musical theater, adult classes. 3003W. 15th St, Plano, TX 972.985.1374 chamberlainschoolofballet.com

HATHAWAY ACADEMY OF BALLET

Home of Collin County Ballet Theatre “Lessons of a Lifetime”. A premier ballet academy serving North Texas, providing professional training for over 20 years in dance technique for all ages.

Directors, Kirt & Linda Hathaway former dancers of Dallas Ballet. Developing the dancer’s technical skills and performance artistry. 2865 McDermott Rd #140, Plano, TX 75025 972 7470600 hathawayacademyofballet.com & collincountyballettheatre.com

RICHARDSON TEXAS BALLET THEATER SCHOOL— DALLAS

he official school of Texas Ballet Theater offers programs ranging from beginner ballet to elite professional training, ages 3 and up. Classes also include jazz, tap, and modern, as well as adult classes. | 300 N. Coit Rd. Ste. 231, Richardson, TX 75080 | 214-377-8576 | Dallasschool@ texasballet.org | texasballettheater.org

TOBY’S SCHOOL OF DANCE

Home of Richardson Fine Arts Conservatory. Sally & Don Andriot.

635 W Campbell Rd, Suite 224, Richardson, TX 75080 972.235.0514 tobyschoolofdance@gmail.com tobysdance.com

19 • DANCE NORTH TEXAS • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2024

Flamenco I Paella I Familia APRIL 13 . 202 1 LIVE COCINA FLAMENCA: LA FERIA de SEVILLA Latino Cultural Center Provided in part by Moody Fund for the Arts

May 26 - June 2 . 202 1

Fiesta Flamenca X

Sponsored in part by The office of arts and culture

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT theflamefoundation.org

DALLAS FlamencO FLAMENCO FESTIVAL Presented by

The Flame Foundation Celebrating 15 years of Excellence