Headlong Dance Theater

- 1170 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19146

For more than three decades, Headlong Dance Theater has been a dynamic force in Philadelphia's thriving arts scene. Founded in 1993, this visionary company has cultivated a reputation for creating and performing new works of "dance theater" that are both innovative and deeply engaging. Headlong goes beyond traditional dance, incorporating the entire body—including voice, face, and mind—to create powerful narratives. The company is known for its ability to develop a unique movement vocabulary for each new piece, drawing from a diverse range of styles including modern, ballet, jazz, tap, and even sign language. This eclectic approach results in performances that are not only visually stunning but also intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

What makes Headlong Dance Theater a beacon for the arts in Pennsylvania is its commitment to making dance accessible and relevant to a broader audience. Rather than confining performances to a traditional stage, Headlong has a history of engaging with communities through site-specific works and audience participation. They are known for creating witty and thoughtful commentary on contemporary culture, and their performances are designed to bring the audience closer to the art form. This philosophy has earned them acclaim from critics and audiences alike, solidifying their place as one of Philadelphia's most audacious and respected performance groups.

Beyond its professional performances, Headlong is an integral part of the local arts community, offering programs that reflect its mission of fostering creativity and artistic development. The studio itself is often praised by visitors for being "beautiful and clean," and exuding "positive vibes." This welcoming environment, combined with their focus on community engagement, makes Headlong Dance Theater an inviting destination for anyone in the region looking to experience or participate in the arts. It’s a place where creativity flourishes and where the line between performer and audience is often beautifully blurred. The company’s commitment to providing a clean, positive, and beautiful space is an added bonus to their artistic vision.

Location and Accessibility

Headlong Dance Theater is located at 1170 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA. This address places the theater in the heart of South Philadelphia, a convenient location for a diverse range of residents. South Broad Street is a major artery in the city, making the location easily accessible by car, public transit, and on foot. While specific accessibility details such as wheelchair-accessible entrances are not publicly confirmed, the reviews mention a "great location." The studio's commitment to community engagement and inclusivity suggests a welcoming environment for all visitors. Prospective attendees are encouraged to contact the theater directly to inquire about specific accommodations. The central location provides a great opportunity for Philadelphians to support and engage with local arts.

Services Offered

• Public performances and shows.
• Dance classes for adults and children (specific classes may vary based on ongoing programs and workshops, please check directly with the venue).
• Community outreach and collaborative projects.
• Workshops and master classes led by renowned guest artists.
• Specialized training programs, such as the Headlong Performance Institute.
• Studio rentals for artists and performers.

Features and Highlights

• A celebrated dance company known for its unique and visionary works of "dance theater."
• Creates innovative and accessible performances that often involve audience engagement and site-specificity.
• Known for a positive and welcoming atmosphere, with a clean and beautiful facility.
• Recognized for its artistic excellence and a long history of creating over 40 original dance works.
• Draws from a wide range of movement styles, offering a diverse and rich artistic experience.
• Engages with the community through performances in non-traditional venues.
• A trusted name in the Philadelphia arts community with a track record of critical acclaim.
• Offers programs and workshops for aspiring artists and dancers.
• Accepts credit and debit cards for convenient payment.
• Known for being "good for kids," providing a positive entry point to the arts for young people.

Contact Information

Address: 1170 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA

Phone: (215) 545-9195

What is worth choosing

For anyone in the Pennsylvania region, what makes Headlong Dance Theater a truly unique and worthwhile choice is its status as a creative and intellectual powerhouse in the world of dance. This is not a typical dance studio; it is a center for visionary artistic creation. The company’s philosophy of breaking down the barriers between performer and audience, and between different art forms, provides a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s a place where you can not only witness a performance but also potentially become a part of it, which is an exciting and rare opportunity in the arts. The company's commitment to creating witty, insightful, and relevant works that explore the complexities of contemporary life ensures that a visit to Headlong is always thought-provoking.

Furthermore, the studio’s reputation for having a "beautiful, and clean" space with "positive vibes" is a significant draw. For parents looking for a welcoming and encouraging environment for their children to explore movement, and for adults seeking a positive artistic community, this reputation is invaluable. The fact that the organization is "good for kids" suggests that it's an excellent entry point for young people to be introduced to the performing arts in a fun and inspiring way.

Choosing Headlong Dance Theater means supporting a local institution that is consistently pushing the boundaries of what dance can be. It’s an opportunity to engage with a company that has received national and international recognition, all while being a cornerstone of the Philadelphia arts community. Whether you attend a performance, participate in a workshop, or simply visit the beautiful studio, you are engaging with a legacy of artistic innovation and a vibrant community. The combination of its creative mission, positive environment, and accessibility makes Headlong Dance Theater a premier destination in Pennsylvania's cultural landscape.

Headlong Dance Theater

1170 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA