Explore Danceworks Indy: Your Guide To Indy's Premier Dance Company

Wondering what "danceworks indy" is all about?

Danceworks Indy is a contemporary dance company and school located in Indianapolis, Indiana. The company was founded in 1984 by artistic director Kimberlin Brown and has since become one of the leading contemporary dance companies in the Midwest.

Danceworks Indy's mission is to create and perform innovative and thought-provoking contemporary dance works that challenge and inspire audiences. The company's repertoire includes a wide range of works, from abstract and experimental pieces to more narrative-driven ballets. In addition to its performances, Danceworks Indy also offers a variety of educational programs, including classes for all ages and levels, workshops, and master classes.

Danceworks Indy has been recognized for its artistic excellence with numerous awards, including the prestigious Governor's Arts Award. The company has also toured extensively throughout the United States and internationally.

Danceworks Indy is a vital part of the Indianapolis arts community and a national leader in contemporary dance.

Danceworks Indy

Danceworks Indy is a contemporary dance company and school located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Founded in 1984, the company has become a leading force in contemporary dance in the Midwest.

• Artistic Excellence: Danceworks Indy's repertoire includes a wide range of innovative and thought-provoking works that challenge and inspire audiences.
• Educational Programs: In addition to its performances, Danceworks Indy offers a variety of educational programs, including classes for all ages and levels, workshops, and master classes.
• Community Involvement: Danceworks Indy is a vital part of the Indianapolis arts community, and its outreach programs help to bring dance to underserved communities.
• National Recognition: Danceworks Indy has been recognized for its artistic excellence with numerous awards, including the prestigious Governor's Arts Award.
• International Presence: The company has toured extensively throughout the United States and internationally, sharing its unique brand of contemporary dance with audiences around the world.
• Legacy: Danceworks Indy has played a significant role in the development of contemporary dance in the Midwest, and its work continues to inspire and influence dancers and audiences alike.
• Future: Danceworks Indy is committed to continuing to create and perform innovative and thought-provoking contemporary dance works, and to providing educational opportunities for dancers of all ages and levels.

These seven key aspects highlight the importance of Danceworks Indy as an artistic, educational, and community resource. The company's commitment to artistic excellence, educational outreach, and community involvement has made it a vital part of the Indianapolis arts scene and a respected force in contemporary dance nationally and internationally.

1. Artistic Excellence

Danceworks Indy's commitment to artistic excellence is evident in its repertoire of innovative and thought-provoking works. The company's dancers are highly skilled and athletic, and they perform with a passion and intensity that is both captivating and inspiring.

• Creativity: Danceworks Indy's choreographers are constantly pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance, creating works that are both original and challenging. The company's repertoire includes a wide range of styles, from abstract and experimental pieces to more narrative-driven ballets.
• Technical Skill: Danceworks Indy's dancers are some of the most technically skilled in the Midwest. They are able to execute complex movements with precision and grace, and their athleticism is evident in every performance.
• Emotional Depth: Danceworks Indy's works are not just technically impressive; they are also emotionally resonant. The company's dancers are able to connect with audiences on a deep level, and their performances often leave a lasting impression.
• Social Commentary: Danceworks Indy's works often explore social and political issues, challenging audiences to think about the world around them. The company's commitment to social justice is evident in its outreach programs, which bring dance to underserved communities.

Danceworks Indy's artistic excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Governor's Arts Award. The company has also toured extensively throughout the United States and internationally, sharing its unique brand of contemporary dance with audiences around the world.

2. Educational Programs

Danceworks Indy's commitment to education is an essential part of its mission to create and perform innovative and thought-provoking contemporary dance works that challenge and inspire audiences. The company's educational programs provide opportunities for people of all ages and levels to learn about and experience contemporary dance.

Danceworks Indy's educational programs are designed to:

• Provide a foundation in contemporary dance technique
• Encourage creativity and self-expression
• Foster a lifelong appreciation for dance
• Build community and connections

Danceworks Indy's educational programs are led by a team of experienced and passionate dance educators. The company offers a variety of classes, workshops, and master classes throughout the year, both at its studios and in partnership with schools and community centers. Danceworks Indy also offers a pre-professional training program for aspiring dancers.

Danceworks Indy's educational programs are an important part of the company's overall mission. By providing opportunities for people of all ages and levels to learn about and experience contemporary dance, Danceworks Indy is helping to build a more vibrant and engaged dance community in Indianapolis and beyond.

3. Community Involvement

Danceworks Indy's commitment to community involvement is an essential part of its mission to create and perform innovative and thought-provoking contemporary dance works that challenge and inspire audiences. The company's outreach programs provide opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the transformative power of dance.

Danceworks Indy's outreach programs include:

• Dance for Parkinson's: This program provides dance classes for people with Parkinson's disease. Dance has been shown to improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, and it can also help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Dance for Every Body: This program provides dance classes for people with disabilities. Dance can help people with disabilities to improve their physical and mental health, and it can also help them to build confidence and self-esteem.
• School Residencies: Danceworks Indy partners with schools to provide dance residencies. These residencies give students the opportunity to learn about dance, experience live performances, and create their own dances.
• Community Performances: Danceworks Indy performs in a variety of community settings, including schools, libraries, and community centers. These performances help to bring dance to people who might not otherwise have the opportunity to see it.

Danceworks Indy's community involvement programs are making a real difference in the lives of people in Indianapolis. The company's outreach programs are providing opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the transformative power of dance.

The connection between Danceworks Indy's community involvement and its mission to create and perform innovative and thought-provoking contemporary dance works is clear. By bringing dance to underserved communities, Danceworks Indy is helping to build a more vibrant and engaged dance community in Indianapolis. The company's outreach programs are also helping to break down barriers and create a more inclusive arts community.

4. National Recognition

The national recognition that Danceworks Indy has received is a testament to the company's artistic excellence. The Governor's Arts Award is one of the most prestigious awards that can be given to an arts organization in Indiana. Danceworks Indy is the only dance company to have ever received this award.

The national recognition that Danceworks Indy has received has helped to raise the profile of the company and the city of Indianapolis as a destination for the arts. The company has been featured in national publications such as Dance Magazine and The New York Times. Danceworks Indy has also been invited to perform at prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and the Joyce Theater in New York City.

The national recognition that Danceworks Indy has received has also helped to attract talented dancers and choreographers to the company. The company's dancers have gone on to dance with some of the most prestigious dance companies in the world, including the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and the Martha Graham Dance Company.

The national recognition that Danceworks Indy has received is a source of pride for the city of Indianapolis. The company is a valuable asset to the community, and its success is a reflection of the city's commitment to the arts.

In conclusion, the national recognition that Danceworks Indy has received is a testament to the company's artistic excellence. The awards that the company has received have helped to raise its profile, attract talented dancers and choreographers, and make Indianapolis a destination for the arts.

5. International Presence

Danceworks Indy's international presence is a testament to the company's artistic excellence and its commitment to sharing contemporary dance with audiences around the world. The company has toured to over 20 countries on five continents, and its performances have been met with critical acclaim.

• Cultural Exchange: Danceworks Indy's international tours provide opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding. The company's dancers and choreographers learn from the cultures they visit, and they share their own unique perspectives on contemporary dance.
• Artistic Inspiration: Touring internationally exposes Danceworks Indy's dancers and choreographers to new artistic influences. This exposure helps to inspire the company's creative process and results in new and innovative works.
• Global Recognition: Danceworks Indy's international presence has helped to raise the profile of the company and the city of Indianapolis. The company's tours have been featured in major publications around the world, and Danceworks Indy has been invited to perform at prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and the Joyce Theater in New York City.
• Educational Outreach: Danceworks Indy's international tours often include educational outreach programs. The company's dancers and choreographers conduct workshops and master classes, and they share their knowledge and expertise with students and dancers around the world.

Danceworks Indy's international presence is an important part of the company's mission to create and perform innovative and thought-provoking contemporary dance works that challenge and inspire audiences. By sharing its unique brand of contemporary dance with audiences around the world, Danceworks Indy is helping to build a more vibrant and interconnected global dance community.

6. Legacy

Danceworks Indy has been a pioneer in the development of contemporary dance in the Midwest. The company was founded in 1984, and since then it has produced a body of work that is both innovative and accessible. Danceworks Indy's dancers are known for their technical skill and their ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.

One of the most important aspects of Danceworks Indy's legacy is its commitment to education. The company offers a variety of classes and workshops for dancers of all ages and levels. Danceworks Indy also has a pre-professional training program for aspiring dancers. Through its educational programs, Danceworks Indy is helping to train the next generation of contemporary dance artists.

Danceworks Indy's legacy is also evident in the company's outreach programs. The company performs in a variety of community settings, including schools, libraries, and community centers. Danceworks Indy also offers a variety of educational programs for underserved communities. Through its outreach programs, Danceworks Indy is helping to make dance more accessible to people of all backgrounds.

Danceworks Indy is a vital part of the Indianapolis arts community. The company's legacy of artistic excellence, education, and community involvement has made it a respected force in contemporary dance both nationally and internationally.

7. Future

Danceworks Indy's commitment to the future of dance is evident in its ongoing dedication to creating new and innovative works, as well as providing educational opportunities for dancers of all ages and levels. This commitment is essential to the continued growth and development of contemporary dance, both in Indianapolis and beyond.

• Artistic Innovation: Danceworks Indy is committed to pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance, creating works that are both innovative and thought-provoking. The company's choreographers are constantly exploring new movement vocabularies and artistic concepts, resulting in works that are both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating.
• Educational Outreach: Danceworks Indy believes that dance is for everyone, regardless of age or ability. The company offers a wide range of educational programs, from classes for young children to pre-professional training for aspiring dancers. Danceworks Indy also has a strong commitment to community outreach, providing dance classes and workshops in underserved communities.
• Community Engagement: Danceworks Indy is an integral part of the Indianapolis arts community. The company's performances and educational programs reach a wide range of audiences, from young children to senior citizens. Danceworks Indy also collaborates with other arts organizations and community groups to create unique and engaging events.
• Global Impact: Danceworks Indy is committed to sharing its work with audiences around the world. The company has toured extensively throughout the United States and internationally, and its work has been seen by audiences in over 20 countries. Danceworks Indy's global impact helps to raise the profile of contemporary dance in Indianapolis and beyond.

Danceworks Indy's commitment to the future of dance is essential to the continued growth and development of contemporary dance. The company's innovative works, educational programs, and community engagement efforts are helping to shape the future of dance in Indianapolis and beyond.

FAQs about Danceworks Indy

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Danceworks Indy, a contemporary dance company and school located in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Question 1: What type of dance does Danceworks Indy perform?

Danceworks Indy performs a wide range of contemporary dance works, from abstract and experimental pieces to more narrative-driven ballets. The company's repertoire is known for its innovation and thought-provoking nature.

Question 2: Does Danceworks Indy offer classes for beginners?

Yes, Danceworks Indy offers a variety of classes for all ages and levels, including beginner classes for adults and children. The company also has a pre-professional training program for aspiring dancers.

Question 3: Where can I see Danceworks Indy perform?

Danceworks Indy performs regularly at its home venue, the Basile Theatre at the Athenaeum. The company also tours extensively throughout the United States and internationally.

Question 4: Does Danceworks Indy offer outreach programs?

Yes, Danceworks Indy has a strong commitment to community outreach. The company offers a variety of programs, including Dance for Parkinson's, Dance for Every Body, school residencies, and community performances.

Question 5: How can I support Danceworks Indy?

There are many ways to support Danceworks Indy, including attending performances, making a donation, or volunteering your time. The company also has a membership program that offers a variety of benefits.

We hope this FAQ section has answered some of your questions about Danceworks Indy. For more information, please visit the company's website or contact the Danceworks Indy box office.

Transition to the next article section: Danceworks Indy is a vital part of the Indianapolis arts community and a respected force in contemporary dance both nationally and internationally. The company's commitment to artistic excellence, education, and community involvement has made it a leader in the field of contemporary dance.

Conclusion

Danceworks Indy is a leading contemporary dance company and school that has played a significant role in the development of contemporary dance in the Midwest. The company's commitment to artistic excellence, education, and community involvement has made it a respected force in the field of contemporary dance both nationally and internationally.

Danceworks Indy's innovative works, educational programs, and community engagement efforts are helping to shape the future of dance in Indianapolis and beyond. The company is a vital part of the Indianapolis arts community and a source of pride for the city.