Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

For residents of Ohio, particularly those in the vibrant city of Dayton and the surrounding Miami Valley, the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) stands as a true cultural institution, an artistic powerhouse with a rich history and a profound impact. Founded in 1968 to create performance opportunities for dancers of color, DCDC has evolved into one of the nation's most celebrated and historically significant arts organizations. It is the second oldest minority dance company in the United States, a testament to its enduring legacy, second only to the iconic Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

DCDC is far more than just a dance company; it's an exhilarating experience, a source of inspiration, and a vital cornerstone of cultural education and community engagement. Their performances are known for being breathtaking, thrilling, engaging, and captivating, consistently leaving audiences "floored" by their artistic excellence. Rooted deeply in the African American experience, DCDC not only preserves a rich legacy but also continuously fosters innovation in contemporary dance, bringing diverse stories and powerful athleticism to stages worldwide. This article will explore what makes DCDC an indispensable part of Ohio's cultural landscape, detailing its location, offerings, unique features, and why it is a must-experience for locals.

The Dayton Contemporary Dance Company is proudly headquartered at 840 Germantown St, Dayton, OH 45402, USA. This central Dayton location makes it easily accessible for patrons and community members residing throughout the city and across the broader Dayton metropolitan area, including neighboring communities in Montgomery County and beyond. Its proximity within the urban core ensures that attending performances, workshops, or engaging with their educational programs is convenient for local Ohioans. The accessibility of the facility is an important aspect for an organization that deeply values community engagement and aims to reach the broadest audience possible. Situated in a culturally rich part of Dayton, the location also allows for easy access to other artistic and community venues, enriching the overall experience for visitors.

Services Offered:

• World-Class Dance Performances: DCDC presents a full lineup of breathtaking performances each season, featuring both historic works and innovative contemporary choreography. These include home concerts in Dayton, often held at venues like the Victoria Theatre, and touring shows nationally and internationally.
• Cultural Significance and Legacy: The company is deeply rooted in the African American experience, showcasing the rich legacy of African American dance and fostering innovation in contemporary forms. They boast the largest repertory of works by Black choreographers in the world.
• Educational and Community Engagement Programs: DCDC is committed to arts-integrated education, reaching tens of thousands of K-12 students annually through performances, workshops, and outreach initiatives that highlight issues of identity, social justice, culture, and self-expression.
• Development of Diverse Movement Artists: The company actively develops diverse movement artists on a global stage, providing opportunities for professional dancers of color and contributing to the advancement of contemporary dance.
• Repertory Performances: DCDC maintains an impressive repertory of over 250 pieces, including signature works and collaborations with renowned choreographers, showcasing a wide range of styles and narratives.
• On-Demand Performances: In addition to live shows, DCDC offers on-demand performances, allowing a wider audience to experience their artistry.
• Collaborations with Other Companies: DCDC engages in significant collaborations, such as their partnership with the Paul Taylor Dance Company, performing and commissioning new works together.

Features / Highlights:

• Unparalleled Artistic Excellence: Described as "amazing top tier" and an "exhilarating experience," DCDC consistently delivers performances that are thrilling, engaging, and captivating, often leaving audiences "floored." Their dancers are characterized by being "strong athletic performers" with the ability to execute a wide range of choreography.
• Rich African American Legacy: DCDC is celebrated for its deep roots in the African American experience and its continuous promotion of African American dancers who bring diverse stories to the stage. It is the second oldest minority dance company in the US.
• International Presence from a Midwest Base: Despite being located in a city significantly smaller than major cultural hubs like New York, DCDC maintains a remarkable international presence, having toured extensively worldwide in countries such as Bermuda, Canada, Chile, China, France, Germany, Kazakhstan, Poland, Russia, and South Korea.
• Commitment to Education and Community Engagement: A key highlight is DCDC's dedication to engaging the community and educating youth. They reach more than 30,000 students annually through various programs, underscoring their role as a significant educational resource.
• Innovative and Diverse Choreography: DCDC is known for both performing historic works and embracing current types of choreography, showcasing a blend of tradition and innovation. They have even been the first African American dance company to add a masterpiece like Paul Taylor's "Esplanade" to their repertoire.
• Passionate and Dedicated "Stan" Base: As one reviewer eloquently put it, audiences become "DCDC Stans" (ardent fans) due to the company's ability to profoundly move and inspire them, indicating a deeply impactful and memorable experience.
• Recognition and Accolades: DCDC is a co-recipient of prestigious awards like the 2016 Bessie Award for Outstanding Revival, and has been presented by esteemed festivals such as American Dance Festival and Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival, solidifying their high standing in the dance world.

Contact Information:

Address: 840 Germantown St, Dayton, OH 45402, USA

Phone: (937) 228-3232

Mobile Phone: +1 937-228-3232

For Ohio residents, particularly those in and around Dayton, experiencing the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company is an absolute must, and it offers unparalleled benefits as a local point of interest. Firstly, having a "top tier" dance company with an "international presence" right here in the Midwest is a source of immense local pride and a rare opportunity to witness world-class artistic excellence without needing to travel to larger cities. This accessibility brings high-caliber cultural experiences directly to our doorstep.

Beyond the breathtaking performances, DCDC serves a vital role in community engagement and education. Its deep roots in the African American experience and its commitment to fostering diverse movement artists mean that it offers unique cultural insights and educational opportunities for all ages. For families, the chance for children to see and be inspired by such powerful and historically significant performances, coupled with DCDC's extensive outreach programs for K-12 students, provides invaluable artistic and cultural enrichment.

The company's ability to "thrill, engage, captivate, draws, and move" its audience ensures that every visit is a profound and memorable one. By supporting DCDC, locals are not just enjoying a show; they are contributing to the sustenance of a significant artistic legacy, promoting diversity in the arts, and investing in the cultural vibrancy of their own community. It truly is a local treasure that embodies artistic innovation, cultural significance, and a profound dedication to its Ohio roots and global reach.

You can learn more about the company's performances and legacy by watching this video: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buXq9jb0e80).

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

840 Germantown St, Dayton, OH 45402, USA