Dancing shoes are humming with anticipation. Right here stands Dance Place, a vibrant hub for movement and art. For over three decades, Dance Place has been the heart of dance in Washington D.C. It is a non-profit center that offers performances and dance classes. These classes are for adults and kids. Dance Place also provides arts in education programs for youth.
Founded in 1980, Dance Place has propelled many dance companies onto the national stage. It nurtures dancers and choreographers. Dance Place offers affordable facilities. They also provide professional support. This support extends to local, national, and international touring companies.
Carla Perlo’s D.C. Wheel Productions, Inc. is also known as Dance Place. In 1980, it opened a home for dance. This was in a rented space in Adams Morgan.
Dance Place is a cornerstone of revitalization in Brookland and Edgewood. It inspires other schools and businesses. These businesses put down roots in the area. In partnership with Artspace Projects Inc., Brookland Lofts opened in 2011. It provides affordable live and work spaces for 39 local artists. It also provides new program and teaching spaces for Dance Place.
Dance Place has a dynamic approach to education. It includes arts and academics. It also includes life skills and job readiness. Programs are accessible for people of all ages and cultures. There are ballet and tap classes for three-year-olds. Dance Place provides workshops for professional dancers. Audience participatory performances and celebrations are also offered. The after-school program provides creative education through the arts for youth. Work-study and scholarship programs ensure access for everyone.
Deborah Riley joined Dance Place in Brookland. She has been a teacher and artist in residence. She has also served as an administrator. Kennedy Center and Dance Place used to be the only places that presented dance. Dance Place hosts performances 46 weekends a year.
As a non-profit, Dance Place relies on grants. These come from the government and private foundations. Donations from corporations and individuals are also essential. Dance Place enriches lives. It transforms people’s lives. Dance Place helps artists make a living and gather an audience. Dance Place offers affordable and free programs.
Dance Place is committed to enriching the field of dance. This commitment extends locally, nationally, and internationally. Dance Place supports movement artists. It creates opportunities for creative development, performance, and education. Dance Place strengthens the dance field by investing deeply in artists. They center those who have been systemically excluded.
The New England Foundation for the Arts awarded Dance Place a grant. The National Endowment for the Arts also approved it for Grants for Arts Projects. Dance Place has also been awarded the Cafritz Foundation Matching Grant for a second consecutive year.
Everyone feels part of the excitement at Dance Place. It is a place where community, art, and movement converge. As you leave Dance Place, remember the rhythm and passion it holds. It will continue to inspire generations of dancers and art enthusiasts.