SHARP Dance Company: Meaningful Movement in Philadelphia

SHARP Dance Company Introduce

In the heart of Philadelphia's cultural landscape, a modern dance company is making a profound impact by blending classic technique with powerful, story-driven movement. SHARP Dance Company, a women-owned business, stands as a unique point of interest for anyone in Pennsylvania interested in the performing arts. Founded on the principle of "meaning behind movement," the company's mission is to connect people and communities to raw human emotion through dance that is inspired by socially conscious issues. This isn't just a place to watch a performance; it's an immersive experience designed to captivate both seasoned dance connoisseurs and those new to the art form. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of SHARP Dance Company, from its location and offerings to what makes it a truly worthy choice for your next cultural outing.

For nearly two decades, SHARP Dance Company, established in 2005 by Artistic Director Diane Sharp-Nachsin, has been a driving force in modern dance. The company has garnered a reputation for its compelling storytelling, with works that resonate on a profound level. Their repertoire is a testament to their vision, tackling themes that range from historical events, such as a moving tribute to Sir Nicholas Winton who rescued 669 Jewish children during the Holocaust, to introspective pieces about self-discovery and human connection. The company's work is celebrated for its ability to be both conceptually deep and emotionally accessible, inviting audiences to reflect on universal human experiences.

Beyond its performances, SHARP Dance Company is deeply committed to community engagement and education. The company believes that dance is a universal language that can be used to inspire empathy, ignite creativity, and build a more cohesive society. This is reflected in their educational programs and open classes, which provide opportunities for both pre-professional and professional dancers to train and grow. Their dedication to nurturing the next generation of artists and creating a space for all ages to experience dance makes them a valuable asset to the Philadelphia community and a point of interest for families throughout Pennsylvania. The company's focus on integrity, collaboration, and community engagement makes it more than just a performance troupe; it is a true cultural institution.

The artistry on display is frequently described as "utterly superhuman," with dancers who possess a strong foundation in ballet and modern dance techniques. This technical prowess, combined with a passion for storytelling, results in performances that are not only visually stunning but also profoundly touching. Whether it's a piece that uses intricate harmonies to create a satisfying visual mise-en-scène or a work that delves into the complexities of human relationships, SHARP Dance Company consistently delivers an experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally affecting. It is a point of interest that offers a rich and rewarding encounter with the power of modern dance.

## Location and Accessibility

SHARP Dance Company is centrally located at 1420 Locust St APT 33F, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA. This address places the company right in the heart of Center City, an area renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Its location is easily accessible for Philadelphia residents and is a convenient destination for those traveling from other parts of Pennsylvania.

As a modern dance company, SHARP Dance Company holds performances at various venues, often in the Philadelphia area and sometimes during national and international tours. Their open company classes are held at locations that may vary, such as Equilibrium Dance Academy, making their services accessible to a wider community of dancers. It's important to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule and venue information for specific performances and classes.

While their main office is located in an apartment building, the company's activities are hosted in dedicated performance and studio spaces. They are a professional organization that tours and collaborates with various venues to present their works, bringing their art to a wide range of audiences. This flexibility in location for performances and classes ensures that they can reach people in different communities and provide them with an opportunity to engage with their art.

The company's commitment to accessibility is also reflected in their online presence, which allows for easy access to information about upcoming shows, audition opportunities, and dance classes. The availability of credit card payments adds to the convenience for audience members and students. This blend of a central, urban presence with adaptable performance locations makes SHARP Dance Company an accessible and engaging part of the Pennsylvania arts scene.

## Services Offered

SHARP Dance Company provides a range of services that extend beyond its professional performances, engaging with both the artistic community and the general public.

Professional Performances: The company is known for its touring repertoire of works, which are presented in various theaters and venues. Their performances feature a mix of fan favorites from their 20-year history and exciting new works, offering a diverse and emotionally rich lineup for audiences. These performances are the main way the company fulfills its mission of connecting communities through story-driven movement.
Dance Classes: SHARP Dance Company offers open company classes for dancers. These classes, which often include ballet and contemporary dance, are a fantastic opportunity for aspiring and professional dancers to sharpen their technique and learn from the company's talented artists. The classes are typically available on a drop-in basis, making them flexible and accessible to a wide range of individuals.
Dance Intensives: The company holds professional and pre-professional dance intensives, providing an immersive experience for dancers to elevate their technique and learn from renowned artists. These intensives are a concentrated way for serious dancers to gain experience and work closely with the company's dancers and choreographers.
Auditions: SHARP Dance Company holds auditions for its season, providing a professional pathway for dancers to join the company. These auditions are a key service for the dance community, offering employment opportunities and a chance to be part of a respected and touring modern dance company.
Collaborations and Workshops: The company frequently collaborates with guest choreographers and artists, enriching their repertoire and providing diverse artistic experiences. They also offer workshops and residencies, engaging with local and international communities to share their art and vision. This collaborative spirit is a core part of their mission to build bridges through dance.

## Features / Highlights

What truly makes SHARP Dance Company an exceptional point of interest are its unique features and the values that define its work.

Story-Driven Movement: The company's signature style, "meaning behind movement," is a key highlight. The performances are not just a display of technical skill but are also rich with narrative and emotional depth. They tackle socially conscious issues and universal themes, which makes the art relatable and engaging for all audiences, regardless of their background in dance. This narrative grounding ensures a powerful emotional connection for viewers.
Artistic Excellence: Reviews of the company's performances consistently praise the "superhuman" skill and "flawless" execution of its dancers. The technical finesse, honed through balletically infused techniques, combined with an ability to convey profound emotion, makes their work truly memorable and of the highest caliber. Their reputation for excellence is a major draw for audiences.
Women-Owned Business: As a women-owned business, the company contributes to the diversity of the Philadelphia arts scene and provides a platform for female leadership in the arts. This identity is a point of pride and a testament to the vision of its founder, Diane Sharp-Nachsin.
Good for Kids: While their work can be profound, the company's performances are often noted as being appropriate for all ages. This makes SHARP Dance Company a great option for families in Pennsylvania who want to introduce their children to the beauty and power of modern dance in an accessible and engaging way.
Community Engagement: The company's mission to connect communities and its values of collaboration and integrity are at the heart of its operations. They don't just perform for an audience; they seek to engage with them, providing an experience that fosters empathy and understanding. This dedication to social impact elevates their work beyond entertainment.

## Contact Information

For inquiries, collaboration opportunities, or to learn more about upcoming performances, here is the contact information for SHARP Dance Company:

Address: 1420 Locust St APT 33F, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA

Phone: (215) 880-2306

Mobile Phone: +1 215-880-2306

## What Is Worth Choosing

Choosing to attend a performance or engage with SHARP Dance Company is an excellent decision for several key reasons. First and foremost, the company offers a unique and powerful artistic experience. Their commitment to "story-driven movement" sets them apart from other dance troupes, providing performances that are not just beautiful to watch but also intellectually and emotionally satisfying. This focus on narrative makes their shows accessible to a wider audience, including those who may not have a background in dance. You can be assured that you are in for a meaningful and memorable experience, with themes that are relatable and thought-provoking.

Secondly, the quality of the artistry is consistently high. The dancers are highly skilled and trained, and their performances are a testament to their dedication and talent. Attending a SHARP Dance Company show is a chance to witness world-class modern dance right here in Pennsylvania. The company's ability to seamlessly blend technical finesse with profound emotional expression is a rare find and a major reason to choose their performances over others. This level of professional artistry is a point of pride for the local arts community and a fantastic opportunity for residents to support and enjoy.

Finally, by supporting SHARP Dance Company, you are contributing to a business with a strong and positive mission. As a women-owned business, it champions artistic leadership and creativity. More importantly, its focus on using dance to address socially conscious issues means that your ticket purchase goes towards a cause that promotes empathy, understanding, and community connection. This company is a valuable cultural asset that enriches the lives of people in Pennsylvania by providing a platform for difficult conversations and inspiring hope through the universal language of dance. Whether you're a dance enthusiast or simply looking for a new cultural experience, SHARP Dance Company offers something truly special and impactful.