Philadanco

- 9 N Preston St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

For over five decades, The Philadelphia Dance Company, affectionately known as Philadanco, has been a cornerstone of artistic innovation and excellence in the city. Founded in 1970 by the visionary Joan Myers Brown, this non-profit organization has grown from a local community arts initiative into an internationally recognized professional dance company. Philadanco is not just a dance company; it's a legacy. It was established with a mission to provide opportunities for Black dancers who were systematically denied entrance to many dance schools and had limited professional avenues. Today, it stands as a testament to breaking barriers and building bridges through the power of dance.

Philadanco is celebrated for its dynamic and captivating performances that blend African-American dance traditions with a wide range of styles, including ballet, jazz, and modern dance. Their repertoire is a rich tapestry of works by both legendary and emerging choreographers, showcasing a level of virtuosity and energy that leaves audiences in awe. From sold-out performances in prestigious theaters like the Kimmel Cultural Campus’s Perelman Theater to international tours, the company's artistry is universally acclaimed. As one proud fan expressed after a show, seeing Philadanco perform alongside companies like Alvin Ailey is a source of great pride for the "home team," highlighting the company’s status as a local treasure with global appeal.

Beyond the stage, Philadanco is deeply committed to dance education and community engagement. The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts, the "mother" organization to the professional company, offers high-quality dance training for children, youth, and adults. Under the watchful eye of Mrs. Joan Myers Brown, students are taught discipline and technique, preparing them for potential professional careers or simply a lifelong love of dance. This nurturing environment has been instrumental in training generations of dancers, many of whom have gone on to achieve their dreams.

Philadanco also provides a crucial training ground through its three companies: the professional company, the D/2 Apprentice Company, and the D/3 Youth Ensemble. These tiered programs offer a clear pathway for aspiring dancers to hone their skills in a professional setting. The dedication to cultivating young talent is palpable, with participants receiving expert training, mentorship, and invaluable performance opportunities. The company's work in the community extends to workshops, lecture-demonstrations, and master classes, ensuring that the appreciation for dance is accessible to everyone, regardless of background or financial constraints.

In essence, Philadanco is more than a cultural institution; it is a vital part of Philadelphia's social fabric. It stands for hope, inclusion, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. Its legacy of firsts, from providing opportunities for Black dancers to founding the International Association of Blacks in Dance, is a source of inspiration. The combination of world-class performances and a deep-rooted commitment to education and community makes Philadanco an unparalleled cultural asset for Philadelphia and beyond.

Location and Accessibility

Philadanco is headquartered at 9 N Preston St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. This West Philadelphia address serves as the home for their school and administrative offices. The company performs at various venues, including prominent locations like the Perelman Theater at the Kimmel Cultural Campus in Center City. These venues often have excellent accessibility features, including wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a performance. While accessibility information for their specific studio location is not publicly detailed, the company's ethos of inclusion suggests a commitment to welcoming all.

Services Offered

• Professional Dance Performances (modern, ballet, jazz, African-American traditions)
• Dance Training for Children, Youth, and Adults
• Pre-Dance and Children's Dance Classes
• Classical Ballet, Modern Jazz, and Tap Instruction
• Professional and Apprentice Company Training Programs (D/2 and D/3)
• Dance Education and Community Engagement Initiatives
• Workshops and Master Classes
• Performance opportunities

Features / Highlights

• Founded and directed by the iconic Joan Myers Brown, a pioneer in the dance world.
• Internationally celebrated professional dance company recognized for innovation and artistic integrity.
• Focuses on the preservation and advancement of African-American traditions in dance.
• Offers a comprehensive dance education program through The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts.
• Cultivates young talent through its professional and training companies (D/2 Apprentice Company and D/3 Youth Ensemble).
• Known for being a powerful force for social change, created to provide opportunities for Black dancers.
• Presents high-quality, emotionally resonant, and technically superb performances.
• A trusted and beloved institution in the Philadelphia arts community for over 50 years.

Contact Information

Address: 9 N Preston St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA

Phone: (215) 387-8200

What is worth choosing

Choosing Philadanco, whether as an audience member or a student, is to become part of a profound and enriching artistic legacy. It is worth choosing for its unparalleled commitment to excellence, which is evident in every performance and class. The opportunity to witness a company that is often compared to legends like Alvin Ailey is a source of immense local pride and a truly captivating experience. The dancers are not only technically powerful but also convey an emotional depth that makes their performances both thrilling and deeply moving.

For aspiring dancers, the training programs offered through The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts are a gateway to professional opportunities and disciplined personal growth. The mentorship from seasoned professionals and the nurturing environment cultivated by Mrs. Joan Myers Brown herself provides an ideal setting for young people to reach their full potential. This is a place where aspiring dancers are trained not just to be great artists but to be well-disciplined individuals with a strong sense of purpose. By supporting Philadanco, you are supporting a cornerstone of Philadelphia's cultural identity, a place that continues to inspire, educate, and break down barriers for future generations.

Philadanco

9 N Preston St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA