Karen Stokes Dance

Karen Stokes Dance Introduce

Karen Stokes Dance is a distinguished contemporary dance company rooted in the vibrant artistic community of Houston, Texas. Under the visionary direction of Karen Stokes, this company is a creative force, renowned for its original, thought-provoking performances that often blend dance with theatrical and visual elements. More than just a dance troupe, Karen Stokes Dance is an integral part of Houston’s cultural landscape, actively contributing to the city’s reputation as an international center for contemporary dance. The company’s work is characterized by its unique choreographic style, which emphasizes quirky movement, strong rhythmic connections, and a deep sense of individuality within a community. For over two decades, Karen Stokes Dance has been dedicated to not only creating stunning performances but also to fostering a love for dance through educational programming and a strong connection to the local community.

The core philosophy of Karen Stokes Dance is centered on the idea of connection—connection to a time and place, to history, to art, and to people. Karen Stokes’s choreography often draws inspiration from the spirit and history of Houston, with past projects exploring topics like the Houston Ship Channel and the city's founding. This commitment to local relevance makes the company's work particularly resonant with Houston audiences. Beyond the stage, the company is passionate about dance education, having developed programs that have served thousands of students in the greater Houston area. This dedication to nurturing the next generation of dancers, choreographers, and art lovers highlights the company's dual mission of artistic creation and community engagement. As a non-profit organization, Karen Stokes Dance relies on the support of the community to continue its work, reflecting a deep-seated belief that art is a shared experience that enriches everyone.

Karen Stokes Dance is officially located at 1016 W Temple St, Houston, TX 77009. This location is an accessible and convenient point of presence for the company's administrative and creative work. For those in the Houston area, the location is a practical one, situated in a central neighborhood that is easily reachable from various parts of the city. In line with the company's commitment to inclusivity, the facility is designed to be accessible to all. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can attend performances, educational workshops, or other events with ease and comfort. This thoughtful design helps to create a welcoming environment for all members of the Houston community, regardless of their physical abilities. The location serves as the hub for the company's operations, even as its performances and projects take place at various theaters, venues, and site-specific locations across the city.

Karen Stokes Dance is primarily a professional dance company that focuses on creating and performing original works. While not a traditional dance school with regular classes for the public, their services are centered around artistic creation, educational outreach, and special projects.

Our services include:

Original Contemporary Dance Performances: The company creates and performs original evening-length and short-form contemporary dance pieces, often incorporating multi-disciplinary elements like film, text, and music.
Educational Programming: We offer educational programming, such as the "Framing Dance" program, which brings interactive performances to students, and other workshops designed to introduce the world of contemporary dance to younger audiences.
Site-Specific Projects: Karen Stokes Dance is known for its unique site-specific works, which are created and performed in specific locations throughout Houston, blending dance with the history and feel of a particular place.
Dance for Camera Projects: The company creates and produces dance films, bringing dance to a new medium and audience.
Collaborations: We frequently collaborate with other artists, composers, and organizations, fostering a sense of community and creating innovative, multi-faceted works.
Educational Workshops: Workshops are offered to schools and the public, providing a deeper dive into the creative process and the art of contemporary dance.

The reputation of Karen Stokes Dance in the Houston arts scene is built on several key features and highlights that set it apart.

Multi-Disciplinary Approach: The company's work is celebrated for its unique blend of dance, visual art, and theatrical elements, creating a rich and immersive experience for the audience.
Community Connection: A core focus on the Houston community is evident in both the themes of the choreography and the company's extensive educational outreach programs.
Artistic Excellence: The company has been recognized with multiple awards and accolades, including Karen Stokes being named "Best Choreographer in Houston" by the Houston Press.
Accessibility: The studio space and programming are committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot. We are also known for being "good for kids" through our educational offerings.
Award-Winning Choreography: The work has been consistently praised by dance critics and publications for its creativity, depth, and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.
Experienced Leadership: Led by Karen Stokes, a professor emerita from the University of Houston's dance program, the company benefits from a wealth of experience in both creation and education.

For more information about performances, educational programs, or to support the company's work, please reach out to us.

Address: 1016 W Temple St, Houston, TX 77009, USA

Phone: (832) 987-2081

For Houston locals, choosing to engage with Karen Stokes Dance is a decision to support and experience a truly unique and meaningful artistic institution. While it may not be a traditional studio for regular classes, its value lies in its contribution to the city's cultural tapestry. We are a company that creates and performs art that is deeply rooted in our community. Karen Stokes’s choreographic vision, which is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, offers a fresh perspective on contemporary dance. Our projects, whether they are performed on a stage or in a specific location in Houston, invite audiences to see their city and themselves in a new light. The company's commitment to making dance accessible, both physically and intellectually, through its educational programs and accessible facilities, makes it a valuable resource for families and schools. By engaging with Karen Stokes Dance, you are not just watching a performance; you are becoming part of an ongoing conversation about art, community, and the human experience. We are a premier Houston dance company that consistently pushes the boundaries of the art form while remaining deeply connected to our hometown, making us a worthy choice for anyone seeking a rich and thought-provoking cultural experience.