Founded in 1976 by Ann Williams, the mission of Dallas Black Dance Theatre is to create and produce contemporary modern dance at its highest level of artistic excellence through performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities. With an ever-expanding national and global audience, the company employs a diverse, multi-ethnic troupe of dancers performing for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Dallas Black Dance Theatre celebrates being the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas. Under the direction of Ann Williams, Founder/Artistic Director, the ensemble, a contemporary modern dance company, consists of 12 professional, full-time dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic and spiritual works by nationally and internationally known choreographers. Over the course of its history, DBDT has performed for 2.5 million arts patrons and 1.5 million children worldwide (40,000 annually youth grades K-12).
Under the Direction of Executive Director, Zenetta Drew, the management of DBDT is composed of a 50 member Board of Directors whose primary responsibilities are fundraising and fiduciary oversight. A professional administrative staff of nine full-time staff is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company.
To keep up with demand and continue to serve its local community, Ann Williams formed Dallas Black Dance Theatre II, the second performing company of Dallas Black Dance Theatre. This semi-professional company consists of 12 aspiring artists from around the nation. Since its inception, DBDT II has grown in popularity and thrilled audiences with its fresh allure.
The 36 year old Dallas Black Dance Academy is the official school of Dallas Black Dance Theatre and offers classes (3 levels each) in ballet, jazz, tap and Liturgical disciplines for ages 4 and up. DBDT's academy offers classes four evenings per week and Saturdays during the school year and summer. The academy trains 400 students per week in year-round classes.
Moving to the Dallas Arts District continues the legacy of Founder/Artistic Director, Ann Williams. In January 2008, the former Moorland YMCA became the first permanent home for DBDT's rehearsal studios, training classrooms, and administrative offices. The 33rd season of Dallas Black Dance Theatre will mark the inaugural season of performing in the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre in the Dallas Center for the Performing Arts. DBDT's permanent home and performance facility in the Arts District truly marks a new era for the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company of Dallas.