Dallas Black Dance Theatre Named American Masterpieces Touring Artist
September 21, 2007
AUSTIN, TX—Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) has been designated as an American Masterpieces touring artist of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for the 2007-2008 touring season. DBDT was selected for this recognition based on its track record for artistic excellence, awards and experience on a national and international level.
"We are honored to receive this designation," states Ann Williams, DBDT Founder and Artistic Director. "The NEA has long supported the artistic ambition of DBDT and we are pleased to be chosen this season to represent the state of Texas."
The NEA has placed a priority on touring and presenting the best in the arts this year. Twelve Texas American Masterpieces artists and companies were selected from the current touring roster of the Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA). Along with DBDT, designation was awarded to: Grammy Award winners Asleep At The Wheel (Austin), Ballet Austin, Dallas Children’s Theater, pianist James Dick (Round Top), storyteller Elizabeth Ellis (Dallas), Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Jim Cullum Jazz Band (San Antonio), the guitarists of Light Crust Doughboys (Mesquite), actress Ruby Nelda Perez (Houston), the Van Cliburn Foundation (Fort Worth), and instrumentalists Buddy and Tina Wright (Lubbock).
Jim Bob McMillan, Interim Executive Director of TCA, explains, "These twelve companies and artists represent a great variety, not only in their different disciplines, but also in scale, diversity and program offerings. I extend our best wishes for the success of their season."
About Dallas Black Dance Theatre
Dallas Black Dance Theatre celebrates its 31st Season in 2007-2008. This world-traveled contemporary modern dance company employs 12 multi-ethnic professional dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic and spiritual works. 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. DBDT will become the resident ballet company for the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre at the Dallas Center for the Performing Arts when it opens in 2009. For more information, go to www.dbdt.com.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Errika Flood-Moultrie
(214) 871-2376
e.flood@dbdt.com