Joint Forces Dance Co

- 576 Olive St #208, Eugene, OR 97401

Introduction / Overview

Joint Forces Dance Co, located in the vibrant city of Eugene, Oregon, is a remarkable organization that stands at the forefront of inclusive and mixed-abilities dance. More than just a dance company, it's a mission-driven entity dedicated to creating communities where everyone is seen, heard, and celebrated through movement. Founded by the internationally recognized pioneer of mixed-abilities dance, Alito Alessi, Joint Forces Dance Co champions the belief that all bodies have a voice and that dance is a universal language. The company’s work is rooted in the DanceAbility Method, a unique approach that connects people with and without disabilities in a shared creative space. Their vision is a world where no one is isolated and where every individual’s expression is integral to the community.

For decades, Joint Forces Dance Co has been a leader in challenging conventional notions of what a dancer looks like and who can participate in the arts. Their performances are renowned for their emotional depth and artistic power, often described by audiences as touching, mesmerizing, and beautiful. The company's work is a testament to the idea that true art comes from authentic connection and collaboration, regardless of physical ability. Through performances, workshops, and educational programs, Joint Forces Dance Co works tirelessly to decrease prejudice and misconceptions about diversity in dance and, by extension, in society at large. They foster an atmosphere of respect, equality, and dignity, making it a safe and empowering place for all who wish to explore the art of movement.

The core philosophy is simple yet profound: focus on what people can do together. The DanceAbility Method emphasizes shared experiences and common ground, ensuring that every person in a class or performance can participate fully and feel a sense of belonging. This commitment to inclusion is not merely a service but a foundational principle that guides every aspect of the company's work. The glowing reviews from audience members who have experienced their performances speak volumes about the company's ability to create art that is not only beautiful but also deeply moving and transformative. Their work shows that artistic excellence and radical inclusion are not mutually exclusive but can, in fact, enhance and elevate one another.

Location and Accessibility

Joint Forces Dance Co is situated in the heart of Eugene, Oregon, at 576 Olive St #208, 97401. This central location makes it a community hub that is easily accessible for many residents. The building itself is positioned in an area with a lot to offer, from local cafes to other businesses, contributing to a vibrant downtown atmosphere.

A key aspect of the company's mission is accessibility, and they have taken steps to ensure their physical space is as welcoming as their philosophy. According to available information, the facility features a wheelchair-accessible car park, which is a significant highlight for visitors with mobility considerations. While specific details on the building's interior accessibility (such as ramps or elevators) are best confirmed by contacting the organization directly, the presence of an accessible car park is a clear indicator of their commitment to serving all community members. This focus on practical accessibility aligns perfectly with their mission to break down barriers to the arts and create a space where everyone can participate.

Services Offered

Joint Forces Dance Co provides a variety of programs designed to promote mixed-abilities dance and foster community. Their services go beyond traditional dance classes to include performances, educational programs, and teacher training. Their offerings include:

• Mixed-Abilities Dance Workshops and Classes: These programs are the cornerstone of their work, bringing together people of all abilities and disabilities to move, create, and express themselves. The DanceAbility Method is used to cultivate a common language of movement.
• Professional Performances: The company produces and presents captivating dance performances that challenge stereotypes and showcase the beauty and power of mixed-abilities art. These performances are designed to engage and inspire audiences of all ages.
• Teacher Training in the DanceAbility Method: Joint Forces Dance Co offers specialized training for individuals who want to become certified instructors in the DanceAbility Method. This helps to spread the practice of inclusive dance to new communities and locations.
• Educational Programs: They offer programs that bring their unique approach to schools, universities, and other educational settings, helping to introduce a new generation to the values of inclusion and creative expression.

Features / Highlights

What sets Joint Forces Dance Co apart in the Oregon arts landscape is its unwavering dedication to its founding principles. Here are some of the key highlights that make this organization special:

• The DanceAbility Method: This pioneering method, developed by Alito Alessi, is the foundation of the company's work. It focuses on what people can do together, creating a truly collaborative and inclusive environment where everyone's unique abilities are valued.
• Pioneering a Movement: Joint Forces Dance Co is considered one of the most important pioneers in the field of mixed-abilities dance globally. They have a long history of breaking new ground and influencing the wider dance community.
• Community-Focused Art: The company’s art is not just for the stage; it’s a tool for social change. Their performances and workshops are designed to build bridges, dissolve separations, and foster a deeper sense of connection within the community.
• Transformative Experience: As evidenced by customer reviews, the experience of watching or participating in their work is often described as emotionally powerful and life-affirming. The art they create touches audiences on a deep and personal level.

Contact Information

To learn more about their upcoming performances, workshops, or to inquire about their programs, you can contact Joint Forces Dance Co directly.

Address: 576 Olive St #208, Eugene, OR 97401, USA

Phone: (541) 357-4982

Mobile Phone: +1 541-357-4982

What is worth choosing

For anyone in Eugene and throughout Oregon, choosing to engage with Joint Forces Dance Co is an opportunity to participate in something truly meaningful and transformative. The value of this organization lies in its profound mission and its ability to execute it with artistic excellence. Unlike many dance companies that may focus solely on technical perfection or commercial appeal, Joint Forces Dance Co prioritizes human connection and the power of expression.

Attending one of their performances or workshops is not just an evening out; it's an experience that broadens your perspective on what art and ability can be. The company's work, which has been described as "emotional energy" and a "convergence of grace," leaves a lasting impression. It’s a chance to witness how diverse bodies and experiences can come together to create something beautiful and cohesive.

Furthermore, for parents looking for activities for their children, or for adults who may have felt excluded from traditional dance settings, Joint Forces Dance Co provides a safe, welcoming, and empowering space. Their commitment to inclusivity and the DanceAbility Method ensures that everyone, regardless of background or physical ability, can find a place to move and create. It's a testament to the belief that dance is for everyone, and that when we all move together, our communities become stronger and more connected. By supporting Joint Forces Dance Co, you are not only supporting the arts but also a vital social mission that enriches the cultural fabric of Eugene and beyond.

Joint Forces Dance Co

576 Olive St #208, Eugene, OR 97401, USA