Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Comprehensive Company Profile

Background

Overview

Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), established in 1976 by Ann Williams, is the oldest continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas, Texas. The company is dedicated to creating and producing contemporary modern dance at the highest level of artistic excellence through performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities.

Mission and Vision

Mission: 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.

Vision: To fulfill its mission through performance and educational programs that bridge cultures, reach diverse communities, and encompass ever-expanding national audiences.

Primary Area of Focus

DBDT focuses on contemporary modern dance, performing a diverse repertoire that includes modern, ballet, jazz, African, and spiritual works by nationally and internationally renowned choreographers.

Industry Significance

As the largest and oldest professional dance company in Dallas, DBDT is recognized as the fourth-largest Black dance company in the nation and ranks among the top 10 largest contemporary modern dance companies in the U.S. The company has performed worldwide for over 5 million arts patrons and 3 million students in 33 states and 16 countries on five continents.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

To produce and perform contemporary modern dance at the highest level of artistic excellence.

To bridge cultures and reach diverse communities through performances and educational programs.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Contemporary modern dance with a focus on diverse styles, including modern, ballet, jazz, African, and spiritual works.

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technologies are not detailed, DBDT has embraced virtual performances, reaching audiences in over 43 countries since 2020.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Diverse communities both locally and globally, with a particular emphasis on youth education and cultural enrichment.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

DBDT has received significant support from various foundations and organizations, including the National Endowment for the Arts and the Texas Cultural Trust.

Total Funds Raised

Specific figures are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

Supporters include the National Endowment for the Arts, Texas Cultural Trust, and the Dallas Foundation.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Funds are utilized for performances, educational programs, community outreach, and operational expenses.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

DBDT's repertoire includes works by renowned choreographers such as Asadata Dafora, Hope Boykin, Christopher L. Huggins, Donald McKayle, Darrell Grand Moultrie, Matthew Rushing, Jamal Story, Kameron N. Saunders, and Nejla Yatkin.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

As a performing arts organization, DBDT does not engage in clinical trials or product development.

Target Conditions

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

DBDT is approaching its 50th anniversary in 2026, marking a significant milestone in its history.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

DBDT has embraced virtual performances, reaching audiences in over 43 countries since 2020.

Significant Scientific Methods

While specific scientific methods are not detailed, DBDT's innovative approach includes virtual performances and educational programs that have been viewed by nearly 200,000 K-12 students across 28 districts throughout the nation since 2021.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

Zenetta S. Drew: Executive Director since 1987, responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company.

Richard A. Freeman Jr.: Interim Artistic Director, leading the artistic direction of the company.

Professional Backgrounds

Zenetta S. Drew: Over 30 years of experience in arts administration, recognized with Dance/USA’s 2021 ‘Ernie’ Award.

Richard A. Freeman Jr.: Experienced in dance performance and choreography, currently serving as Interim Artistic Director.

Key Contributions or Roles Within the Company

Zenetta S. Drew: Oversees all administrative functions, ensuring the company's operations align with its mission.

Richard A. Freeman Jr.: Guides the artistic vision and performance programming of the company.

Leadership Changes

Recent Significant Changes or Appointments

In August 2024, DBDT terminated its entire company of dancers, leading to significant changes within the organization.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The dance performance industry is characterized by a diverse range of companies, with DBDT being a prominent entity in the Dallas area and nationally recognized.

Competitor Analysis

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: A leading contemporary dance company known for its diverse repertoire and global reach.

Dance Theatre of Harlem: A pioneering company that blends classical ballet with African-American culture.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

DBDT collaborates with various organizations and venues, including the AT&T Performing Arts Center and the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, to enhance its performance and outreach capabilities.

Operational Insights

DBDT's strategic considerations include maintaining artistic excellence, expanding community outreach, and adapting to evolving audience engagement methods, such as virtual performances.