Dallas Black Dance Theatre

For nearly five decades, the Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) has been a beacon of artistic excellence, captivating audiences not just in Texas, but across the globe. Founded in 1976 by the visionary Ann M. Williams, DBDT is a professional contemporary modern dance company dedicated to creating and producing dance at the highest artistic level, while also bridging cultures and reaching diverse communities through its compelling performances and impactful educational programs. As the largest and oldest continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas, and ranked among the nation's leading Black and contemporary modern dance companies, DBDT stands as a testament to the power of dance to tell stories, evoke emotion, and connect people from all walks of life. From electrifying R&B concerts that leave crowds wanting more, to deeply moving narrative presentations where stories unfold without a single word, DBDT consistently delivers experiences that resonate long after the final curtain call. This article invites you to discover the rich legacy, exceptional offerings, and profound community impact of the Dallas Black Dance Theatre, a true cultural treasure for Texans.

The Dallas Black Dance Theatre is strategically located at 2700 Ann Williams Way, Dallas, TX 75201, placing it firmly within the renowned Dallas Arts District. This prime location offers unparalleled accessibility for both local residents and visitors to the city. The area is well-served by various transportation options, making it easy to reach whether you're coming from downtown Dallas, other parts of the metroplex, or even out-of-town. Being in the heart of the Arts District means DBDT is surrounded by a vibrant cultural ecosystem, with other major artistic institutions just a stone's throw away, enhancing the overall experience for arts patrons. The physical address, on a street named in honor of its illustrious founder, further emphasizes its deep roots and significance within the community. For those driving, the Arts District typically offers various parking solutions, and public transport routes are readily available to ensure a smooth journey to and from this artistic landmark.

Dallas Black Dance Theatre offers a rich tapestry of services and programs, designed to engage, educate, and entertain a broad audience:

• Professional Dance Performances: The main company (DBDT) and its professional training company (DBDT: Encore!) present mixed repertories of modern, ballet, jazz, ethnic, and spiritual works by nationally and internationally renowned choreographers.
• Season Performances: A curated season of diverse performances held at prestigious venues within the Dallas Arts District, including the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre and Moody Performance Hall.
• Educational Programs: Comprehensive arts-in-education residencies and outreach programs designed for K-12 students, focusing on critical thinking skills and cultural connection through various dance forms.
• Student Matinees: Special performances for students, often accompanied by educational study guides, providing an accessible introduction to the world of dance.
• Community Outreach: Engagements that bring dance to diverse communities, including workshops and interactive sessions in schools and community venues.
• Dallas Black Dance Academy: The official school of Dallas Black Dance Theatre, offering year-round dance instruction in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and African dance for ages four to adult, with multiple skill levels.
• Masterclasses: Opportunities for intermediate to advanced dancers to train with DBDT artistic staff and company members.
• Virtual Performances: Digital access to performances, allowing a wider, even international, audience to experience DBDT's artistry.

The Dallas Black Dance Theatre is distinguished by several key features and highlights that underscore its significance:

• Internationally Recognized Excellence: DBDT has performed worldwide for millions of arts patrons and students in numerous states and countries, including at two Olympic Cultural events, Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center, and for luminaries such as Queen Elizabeth II and Nelson Mandela.
• Rich Repertoire: The company performs a diverse range of works, from historical pieces to contemporary creations, often incorporating multidisciplinary elements like projected images and spoken word.
• Legacy of Ann M. Williams: Founded by a pioneering figure in dance, the theatre continues to uphold her mission of bridging cultures and inspiring minority youth. The street itself, Ann Williams Way, is a tribute to her enduring impact.
• Impactful Educational Outreach: DBDT's commitment to arts education is strong, reaching thousands of students annually through programs like "Bodies in Motion" and "Dance Integration," which use dance to address academic and health challenges.
• Esteemed Recognition: Recipient of prestigious accolades such as the National Endowment for the Arts' American Masterpiece Touring Artist designation (2008) and the Texas Medal of the Arts Award for Arts Education (2017).
• Vibrant Performance Experience: Audience reviews consistently praise the electrifying energy, soulful performances, and the unique ability of the dancers to tell stories without words, leaving a lasting impression.
• Historic Location: The theatre operates from the renovated historic Moorland YMCA building, serving as a vital cultural anchor in the Dallas Arts District for rehearsals, training, and administrative offices.
• Support for Emerging Artists: DBDT: Encore!, the professional training company, cultivates the next generation of talented dancers, showcasing rising stars from across the nation.

For more information on performances, educational programs, or to connect with Dallas Black Dance Theatre, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2700 Ann Williams Way, Dallas, TX 75201, USA

Phone: (214) 871-2376

For locals in Texas, especially those in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the Dallas Black Dance Theatre is more than just a performance venue; it is a vital cultural institution and an accessible gateway to the transformative power of dance. Its commitment to artistic excellence, diverse programming, and robust educational outreach ensures there is something for everyone, regardless of age or background. Whether you're a long-time admirer of dance, a family looking for enriching activities for children, or simply someone seeking a captivating cultural experience, DBDT offers a unique and enriching opportunity right in your backyard. The chance to witness world-class dance that bridges cultures and tells profound stories, all within the vibrant setting of the Dallas Arts District, makes it an essential destination. By supporting Dallas Black Dance Theatre, locals aren't just enjoying a show; they are investing in the preservation of an invaluable art form and contributing to the cultural richness of our beloved Texas community. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic, the energy, and the pure artistry that is the Dallas Black Dance Theatre.

Dallas Black Dance Theatre

2700 Ann Williams Way, Dallas, TX 75201, USA