Dancing in the Light, a moving expression connecting to the human spirit, was created in collaboration with the University of Dayton Dance Ensemble (UDDE) and the pre-professional ensemble of the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC2), with guest artists from The Onyx Contemporary Dance Company. Through the vision of six diverse choreographers, this thought-provoking performance inspires and guides the audience through life-changing experiences that capture what it means to “dance in the light.” Be captivated by the UDDE and DCDC2 annual collaboration, presented by The University of Dayton Theatre, Dance, and Performance Technology Program and the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.
Dayton Contemporary Dance Company
Dayton Contemporary Dance Company presents World Premiere of “Inside Out”
In February, there are two opportunities to experience the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, both in-person and Livestream.
The in-person performance is entitled, Inside Out, featuring a unique collection of interdisciplinary and collaborative pieces imagined by Debbie Blunden-Diggs, DCDC’s Chief Producing and Artistic Director. Witness the unveiling of three world premiere works rooted in DCDC’s legacy and sponsored by the Ohio Arts Council.
If we learned anything during 2020 and 2021, we’re reminded that it’s what’s on the inside that counts. The world has changed, and we’ve evolved the way we think about craft, art, and society. DCDC’s resident choreographers embark upon new collaborations to explore life in a new world.
Nashville native Countess Winfrey collaborates with jazz composer Wesley Winfrey on new music and dance. The exquisite score is brought to life by The University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble and DCDC’s performing artists. The set design and projections created by visual artist Kanetha Scott are inspired by Winfrey’s choreography and the spirit of Memphis. Winfrey’s new work is the centerpiece of this concert, and you won’t want to miss it!
Performances will be held on February 26 at 7:30pm and February 27 at 4:00pm, LIVE at the Victoria Theater. For tickets call 937-228-3630 or daytonlive.org/dcdc. Tickets start at $15!
Livestream event alert: On February 17, 2022 | 11:30 AM – 1 PM – DCDC presents Up Close & Personal: Anatomy of a Dance. Viewers will have the opportunity to see what happens during the creative process. Countess Winfrey will share a part of the evolution of her work for the February event Inside Out. Rehearsals in the studio, practices with the band, and conversations with the creative minds for this production will be shared virtually with our audiences as they get an inside look into the World Premiere of “Human Nature.” Tickets & info at: info.dcdc.org/performances-tickets/seasons-series/up-close-personal
Mavin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” brought to life by the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company
Almost 50 years ago, Marvin Gaye, the Prince of Motown, released the album What’s Going On to great acclaim. On Sunday, November 22, the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) invites you to join them for an online watch party as their dance artists interpret the music of one of the world’s greatest vocalists!
The classic 1971 soul album was written at a tumultuous time in American history, when the Vietnam war was raging, young people were disillusioned, while millions of Americans continued to fight for racial justice. Nearly 50 years later, the songs and emotions from What’s Going On resonate now more than ever.
DCDC is interpreting Gaye’s work at the newly remodeled Rose Auditorium, inside the Dayton Art Institute. However, one piece will be shot on location at the Balsley House in the Oregon District. Both locations offer a new and exciting experience for DCDC fans and dancers alike!
After the virtual production, DCDC invites audiences to Lights Up!, a curated online conversation with the artists, which will immediately follow the performance via zoom.
The initial broadcast of this performance premieres on Sunday November 22nd at 4pm. There will also be a rebroadcast available for viewing between 12 a.m. on Saturday November 28 and 11:59 p.m. on Sunday November 29. Information about how to access the rebroadcast will be included on your email confirmation.
HOW TO WATCH:
NOTE: Information about how to access the live watch party via Zoom will be included in your email confirmation. Please plan to log into the Zoom event at least 15 minutes before the watch party begins
MORE INFO: Visit dcdc.org or visit DCDC on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
DCDC’s Retro/ACTIVE with Special Guest Sparkle
After a stunning retirement announcement, Sheri “Sparkle” Williams will re-perform her final solo dance entitled Altar-ing at the up-coming Dayton Contemporary Dance Company performance Retro/ACTIVE on Saturday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, February 9 at 4pm at the Victoria Theatre, located at 138 N. Main St. in Dayton.
Sparkle, is an icon not only in the Miami Valley, but known through-out the contemporary dance world. She was the Individual Performance Winner of 1997 NYC Bessie Award and 2014 Ohio Governor’s Award for Individual Artist. People will be flocking to the Victoria to witness Sparkle’s final performance, and pay homage to her dance legacy.
The mixed repertory show also features a nod to Black History Month with Warren Spear’s On the Wings of Angels (premiered 1996), which is a soaring tribute to the Tuskegee airman. The performance also brings back Vespers (premiered 1986), Ulysses Dove’s touching poetic tribute to womanhood, and Indestructible (premiered 2018), Abby Zbikowski’s tribute to the endurance of those who struggle for justice. There will also be a world-premiere and special unveiling of a new work by DCDC’s Chief Artistic Administrator and Producing Director, Debbie Blunden-Diggs.
HOW TO GO?
Retro/ACTIVE
Saturday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, February 9 at 4pm
Victoria Theatre, located at 138 N. Main St. in Dayton.
Tickets for Retro/ACTIVE are available at www.ticketcenterstage.com or by calling 937-228-3630.
For the latest opportunities to engage with DCDC, visit www.dcdc.org and connect with us on social media: Facebook/Instagram: @daytoncontemporarydancecompany & Twitter: @DCDCLive.
Join in DCDC’s “In the Spirit of… Abundant Blessings” Holiday Performance
Dayton’s own world renowned Dayton Contemporary Dance Company is back for a hometown an unforgettable holiday extravaganza with In the Spirit of… Abundant Blessings, a celebration of the African-American church. Performances take place on Saturday, December 7 at 7:30pm or Sunday, December 8 at 4pm at the Victoria Theatre, located at 138 N. Main St. in Dayton.
This holiday performance is a switch up from recent years. The company has been performing the beloved Littlest Angel production traditionally. Although a tradition, this swap up is sure to excite Dayton audiences. Not only is the dance quality tremendous, there is live music too!
Music is provided by a collection of amazing talent including The Jeremy Winston Chorale, the Frederick Douglass Elementary Children’s Choir, Judah Band, Music Director Deron Bell with a mass community choir, and nationally renowned gospel singer – the legendary Shirley Murdock. This performance transports audiences to a higher plane of joy and belonging. It’s a holiday offering the entire family is sure to enjoy!
DCDC will also be paying tribute to Sheri “Sparkle” Williams’ 46th year with the company, as is DCDC’s and one of the nation’s most recognized contemporary dance artists.
“This is a wonderful culminating event for our 50th Anniversary. In the Spirit of .. is one of my favorite offerings because it brings the community together. It is a season for giving and sharing. Stepping into our 51st season is no small feat; if not for our dream of our founder, Jeraldyne Blunden, we would not have this wonderful legacy that lives on throughout Dayton, the nation, and the globe. I’m looking forward to celebrating with you the gifts of our abundant blessings.” – Debbie Blunden-Diggs, DCDC Chief Artistic Administrator and Producing Director.
HOW TO GO?
Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. or Sunday, December 8 at 4:00pm
Victoria Theatre, located at 138 N. Main St. in Dayton.
Tickets are $28 are available at ticketcenterstage.com (scroll to pick Sunday performance) or by calling 937-228-3630.
Group Tickets available for groups of 10+. For group tickets contact Lyndsey@dcdc.org. Student, Veteran & Senior discounts are also available.
Get Soulfully Funkalicious with the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company!
Dayton is birthplace of amazing artistic as well as engineering feats. That spirit of innovation blossomed during the late 1960s-1980s in a couple of unique ways: the invention of funk music and the birth of modern dance. In 1968, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company became the first modern dance company established in Ohio. Shortly after, Dayton become the proud capital of Funk music in the 1970s and 1980s.
On Saturday August, 24, 2019 both of those innovative art forms are celebrated together at DCDC’s Soulfully Funkalicious All-White Party! Enjoy delicious soul food while watching DCDC’s dance artists take to the floor in grand funk style with live music from the Dayton Funk All-Stars! Make sure to bring an appetite and your dancin’ shoes for this truly fun and fabulous way to support one of Dayton’s world-class artistic institutions!
How To Go?
What: Soulfully Funkalicious All-White Party
When: August, 24, 2019 from 6-11pm
Where: Dayton Convention Center (22 E 5th St, Dayton)
Tickets: $80 General Seating / $120 VIP Seating / $800 General Table (seats 10) / $1200 VIP Table (seats 10)
For this event only, please purchase tickets at Eventbrite or contact DCDC at 937-228-3232. Ticket purchases are non-refundable.
Please note: All white attire requested.
Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s Golden Anniversary Celebrated with the Dayton Philharmonic!
The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, under the leadership of Artistic Director and Conductor Neal Gittleman, is honored to be a part of the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s 50th Anniversary celebration for a special DCDC Golden Anniversary Concert on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 6:30pm at the Schuster Center in downtown Dayton.
Founded in 1968 by the late Jeraldyne Blunden, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) is the oldest modern dance company in Ohio. DCDC serves as a cultural ambassador to Dayton, the state of Ohio, the Midwest, and the nation. The company holds the world’s largest archive of classic African American dance works and one of the largest of any kind among contemporary dance companies worldwide. Noteworthy choreographers who have worked with the company include Alvin Ailey, Talley Beatty, Donald Byrd, Bill T. Jones, José Limón, Donald McKayle, Ray Mercer, Bebe Miller, Doug Varone, and Kevin Ward.
Together, the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company and the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will present a thrilling performance to honor DCDC’s 50th Anniversary as the region’s outstanding modern dance company rooted in the African American experience. The evening’s performance will consist of three engaging pieces that celebrate the artistry and athleticism of the full DCDC company of dancers.
The first of the three pieces presented will be the World Premiere choreographed by former DCDC artistic director Kevin Ward. The new work is entitledand each day you mean one more and is set to brand new music by composer and musician Derrick Spivey, Jr. and performed by the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. Neal, Derrick and Kevin–conductor, composer, and choreographer–have worked closely together over the last several months to bring this work to life.
and each day you mean one more is partly inspired by the poem “The Low Road” by Marge Piercy, which addresses the challenges faced by the lone actor for societal good and how, with the gradual attraction and enlistment of like-minded individuals, a real force for change can be built that can resist destructive reactionary forces. In creating the dance, choreographer Kevin Ward was inspired by many lone actors such as Fanny Lou Hamer, David Hogg, Fred Rogers, James Baldwin, Malala, Claudette Colvin, and many nameless actors, such as the U.S. prisoners who staged a massive strike against systematic abuse, even though it resulted in the cruelest solitary confinement, and how their efforts inspired millions to follow suit.
DCDC will also perform a signature work from their history called Children of the Passage. This work was co-created for DCDC by world-renowned choreographer Ronald K. Brown and Tony-nominated choreographer Donald McKayle, who passed away just over a year ago this April. The work follows a party of decadent lost souls that are haunted and later rescued by spirits that reconnect them to their ancient and ancestral character. The composition is a cadence that is drawn from the traditional marching jazz bands of New Orleans, with the grind and groove of the contemporary jazz and soul music. The language of movements is translated from the visual poetry of African and African American dance and the celebration of cultural rituals of yesterday and today.
The third work on the program is American Mo’, created by choreographer and DCDC Associate Artistic Director Crystal Michelle Perkins. The dance is a celebration of triumph over adversity. Dancers express freedom, courage and joy to Duke Ellington’s “Three Black Kings,” composed in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This work originally premiered on September 19 & 20, 2015 as part ofAmerican Mosaic, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts and was performed with accompaniment by Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra at the Schuster Center. DCDC has performed the innovative piece in New York City, Kazakhstan, and the Bolshoi in Moscow.
How To Go!
Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 6:30pm at the Schuster Center
Tickets for DCDC Golden Anniversary Concert begin at $15.50 and are available for purchase by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or online at www.daytonperformingarts.org.
For more information on the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, including by Dayton Philharmonic, Dayton Opera and Dayton Ballet, visit www.daytonperformingarts.org.
For more information on Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, visit www.dcdc.org.
Ro Nita Hawes-Saunders To Receive Honorary Doctorate from UD
With approval of its board of trustees, the University of Dayton will bestow an honorary doctorate degree on Ro Nita Hawes-Saunders, CEO of the world-renowned Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, at spring commencement exercises Sunday, May 12, in the University of Dayton Arena.
“We are delighted to honor Ro Nita Hawes-Saunders for her many contributions to the vibrancy and culture of the Dayton community, her commitment to education, and her advocacy for minority business ownership in Dayton,” said University of Dayton President Eric F. Spina, who made the announcement at the University’s Celebration of the Arts March 28. “She epitomizes what it means to be a partner for the common good and build a diverse community.”
Under her leadership, DCDC expanded the company’s community networks, board of directors and administrative staff to facilitate new art production and educational programming; developed institutional partnerships with the University of Dayton, Central State University and Wright State University; and eliminated long-term debt and increased revenue streams. DCDC received the 2016 Bessie Award for Outstanding Revival, presented by Dance/NYC and the New York Dance & Performance Awards. Considered “the Oscar” of the dance world, dance companies and dancers outside New York City historically do not receive Bessies.
“I am honored and humbled by this prestigious recognition. I thank God for the opportunity to serve our beloved community,” Hawes-Saunders said. “Dayton Contemporary Dance Company is a community treasure whose mission is to promote unity and amity through the spirit and power of its performance art. It is my hope that we may all be inspired to make a similar commitment to excellence.”
Spina highlighted the close relationship that has grown between the University and the internationally renowned, culturally diverse dance company rooted in the African-American experience. The company, which has toured the world and performed in Canada, Chile, China, France, Germany, Kazakhstan, Poland, Russia and South Korea, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
“DCDC brings dancers and choreographers to campus for performances, classes and artistic collaborations that add to the University’s arts and intercultural education programming,” Spina said of the partnership.
Since the 2010-11 academic year, DCDC has provided community artists-in-residence to work with students from all majors and at all levels of dance experience to introduce them to the art of dance and its relevance to learning. University faculty and students from all disciplines also work with DCDC to create new academic and experiential learning opportunities. Current artist-in-residence Amy Renee Jones works with the University’s theatre, dance and performance technology program. As part of the campus residency, DCDC holds several free public events on campus.
Hawes-Saunders became CEO of the dance company after selling the two Dayton radio stations — WROU and WRNB — she built from the ground up. At the time, she was one of just 10 African-American women nationwide to own a radio station.
“She launched programming and public initiatives designed to renew energy among the area’s minority community,” Spina said. “Ro Nita is an advocate for business ownership by minorities and women and has won numerous national awards for her service, dedication and commitment to this cause.”
Hawes-Saunders has earned a Marconi Radio Award, the nation’s top radio broadcasting award, and several National Black Programming Coalition and ABC station of the year awards. Radio Inc. magazine named her among the top 25 African-American leaders in the radio industry.
A theater, film and English graduate of Denison University, she served on that university’s board of trustees from 1993 to 2017. For her 24 years of service as a trustee, she is now a lifetime member of the board. Hawes-Saunders also earned a master’s degree from The Ohio State University.
She also serves on the board of CareSource Foundation and is an advisor for the Center for Global Renewal and Mission. In 2018, she was honored by the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio as a community “pillar.”
Journey Into Love with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company
Dayton Contemporary Dance Company will kick off their 50th anniversary season with the long-awaited, much anticipated world premiere of The Bench: Journey Into Love. Created & directed by nationally renowned choreographer Kiesha Lalama, (one of Dance Magazine’s “Top 25 to Watch”) and featuring professional singing talent, The Bench – Journey into Love will be sure to be a hit! The work features original music and lyrics.
What do you get when you cross a love story with dance, theatre and song? The world premiere of a full-evening concert, The Bench: Journey into Love, by choreographer Kiesha Lalama. See what happens when a man and woman meet by a park bench, fall in love, have a family, and continue their love into the next life. The Bench – Journey into Love is a whimsical love story told through the influential lens of Fate and Destiny, who unite the charming Antonio and the beautiful Eva through magical serendipity. Emotions run wild as the young couple experience life’s delights and obstacles. This impassioned and passionate theatrical experience weaves together innovative story-driven dance and a gripping jazz musical score to create a timeless tale of love and family.
Choreographer Kiesha Lalama
Kiesha Lalamahas created more than 50 works for stage, film and television. Kiesha choreographed feature films, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” “Sorority Row,” the hit television documentary series “Broadway or Bust” (PBS), and critically acclaimed television series “Outsiders” (WGN). Theatrical credits include The Jimmy Awards (Broadway), and many more. Lalama has created two full-length contemporary dance theater productions: HeartShakes, which premiered with DCDC in 2015 and The Bench.
How to Go?
When: Saturday, October 6 at 7:30 pm
or Sunday, October 7 at 4:00pm
Where: Victoria Theatre, located at 138 N. Main St. in Dayton.
Tickets start at $15.50, available at ticketcenterstage.com or by calling 937-228-3630.
Group Tickets available for groups of 10+. Student, Veteran & Senior discounts also available.
DCDC Kicks off 59th Anniversary Season
Dayton Contemporary Dance Company will kick off their 50th anniversary season with the long-awaited, much anticipated world premiere of The Bench: Journey Into Love. Created & directed by nationally renowned choreographer Kiesha Lalama, (one of Dance Magazine’s “Top 25 to Watch”) and featuring professional singing talent, The Bench – Journey into Love will be sure to be a hit! The work features original music and lyrics.
What do you get when you cross a love story with dance, theatre and song? The world premiere of a full-evening concert, The Bench: Journey into Love, by choreographer Kiesha Lalama. See what happens when a man and woman meet by a park bench, fall in love, have a family, and continue their love into the next life. The Bench – Journey into Love is a whimsical love story told through the influential lens of Fate and Destiny, who unite the charming Antonio and the beautiful Eva through magical serendipity. Emotions run wild as the young couple experience life’s delights and obstacles. This impassioned and passionate theatrical experience weaves together innovative story-driven dance and a gripping jazz musical score to create a timeless tale of love and family.
Catch The Bench: Journey Into Love Saturday, October 6 at 7:30 p.m. or Sunday, October 7 at 4:00pm at Victoria Theatre, located at 138 N. Main St. in Dayton. Tickets start at $15.50. The show is sponsored by Kettering Family Philanthropies & Media Sponsor is Synchrony Financial.
KIESHA LALAMA has created more than 50 works for stage, film and television. Kiesha choreographed feature films, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” “Sorority Row,” the hit television documentary series “Broadway or Bust” (PBS), and critically acclaimed television series “Outsiders” (WGN). Theatrical credits include The Jimmy Awards (Broadway), and many more. Lalama has created two full-length contemporary dance theater productions: HeartShakes, which premiered with DCDC in 2015 and The Bench.
Tickets for The Bench: Journey Into Love are available at ticketcenterstage.com or by calling
937-228-3630. Group Tickets available for groups of 10+. Student, Veteran & Senior discounts also available.
The 50th Anniversary Season named Heritage, is sponsored by the Dayton Power & Light Foundation.
For the latest opportunities to celebrate with us, visit dcdc.org, and connect with us on social
media: Facebook/Instagram: @daytoncontemporarydancecompany & Twitter: @DCDCLive
About Dayton Contemporary Dance Company:
Dayton Contemporary Dance Company was founded in 1968 to create performance opportunities for dancers of color.
50 years later, DCDC remains rooted in the African American experience, committed to the development of
diverse movement artists on the global stage. Our first and second companies perform more than 60 times every
year and reach more than 25K youth throughout the Miami Valley through our arts-integrated education programs.
DCDC also tours nationally and internationally, serving as cultural ambassadors for the greater Dayton community.
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Luminaries of Dayton: Jeraldyne Blunden
Jeraldyne Blunden was the founder and artistic director of the esteemed Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, the world’s largest repository of reconstructed dance works by African American choreographers. Ms. Blunden also founded Jeraldyne’s School of Dance. The school has given many Miami Valley youth the opportunity to learn about modern dance and pursue a dancing career.
Ms. Blunden received significant recognition for her work, including a 1998 Dance Magazine Award, an Individual Artist Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts and a MacArthur “Genius” Fellows Award. In 1997, she was named one of five Dance Women: Living Legends, “for keeping dance alive.”
Jeraldyne Blunden died on November 2, 1999. She is located in Section 146 in the Woodland Mausoleum.
Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum is located at 118 Woodland Avenue off of Brown Street near the UD Campus. The Woodland Office is open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm and Saturday 8 am to 12 pm. The Cemetery and Arboretum are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. The Mausoleum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information call 937-228-3221 or visit the Woodland website.
Dayton Ballet & DCDC Volunteers Duel Behind the Bar!
Dayton is renowned for it’s incredible legacy in the history of American dance. In 1927, The Schwarz School of Dance (now Dayton Ballet School) was opened in Dayton, by the gifted Schwarz sisters, who returned home after performing professionally around the world. Ten years later, the sisters created “The Experimental Group for Young Dancers,” and staged a performance at the Dayton Art Institute. This was the first performance of what is now the Dayton Ballet, the second oldest regional ballet company in the US.
The Schwarz sisters instructed another pioneer of dance, Jeraldyne Blunden. In 1968, Jeraldyen went on to create her own school, Jeraldyne’s School of Dance. A few years later, she established the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, the first modern dance company in Ohio. The company regularly performs in Dayton, and around the world, including an upcoming trip to Russia and Kazakhstan next May as part of Dance Motion USA, a cultural diplomacy program organized by the U.S. Department of State and the Brooklyn Academy of Music.
These incredible achievements and milestones are being celebrated with style over the next year or two. The Dayton Ballet celebrates it’s 80th Season, and next year DCDC hits their 50th Birthday! Volunteers from the Dayton Ballet Barre and DCDC Ambassadors are joining forces Tuesday, September 5th, 2017 at Brixx Ice Company to kickoff these spectacular seasons! They’ll be slinging drinks as dueling bartenders, and might even have a dance off or two!
Enjoy commradere, drink specials, and a fun way to support these historic arts organizations. Best of all – there will be random ticket giveaways for the exciting up-coming seasons! There will also be ticket discounts available to anyone interested. Tickets to these outstanding artistic events are perfect for date nights, girls nights, and gifts!
How to Go?
Dayton Ballet Barre & DCDC Ambassadors
Dueling Bartenders / 2017-2018 Season Kickoff!
Tuesday, September 5th, 2017 from 6pm-8pm
Brixx Ice Company – 500 E 1st Dayton, OH
