Business Details
Your Premier Contemporary Dance Experience in Burbank, CA
We are a performance company dedicated to showcasing the artistry of Los Angeles through live and digital experiences. Our mission is to create inclusive environments that foster collaboration, belonging, and artistic exploration. We actively work to disrupt systemic inequities in contemporary dance by amplifying underrepresented voices and providing equitable opportunities for Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, womxn, disabled, and LGBTQIA+ artists and communities.Our programming reflects a commitment to redefining contemporary dance as a transformative, community-centered art form that values discovery over mastery and celebrates diverse expressions of movement.
Services
Contemporary Dance Performances
Dance Education Programs
Community Workshops
Digital Dance Productions
Artist Residency Programs
Highlights and features
- We champion diversity and inclusion in contemporary dance programming
- Our educational initiatives prioritize accessibility for underrepresented communities
- We create innovative digital and live performance hybrids
- Our board maintains accountability through DEI benchmark reporting
- We foster collaborative spaces for artistic experimentation without judgment
Services
Contemporary Dance Performances
Our contemporary dance performances blend physical artistry with narrative storytelling, creating immersive experiences that challenge traditional dance conventions. Each production explores themes of identity, community, and social justice through innovative choreography and interdisciplinary collaborations. Our work bridges Western and non-Western dance traditions while maintaining technical excellence and emotional resonance with diverse audiences.
Dance Education Programs
We offer comprehensive dance education programs for all skill levels, emphasizing inclusive learning environments and technical development. Our curriculum combines contemporary techniques with cultural context while prioritizing accessibility for underserved communities. Programs include youth classes, adult workshops, and professional development opportunities led by experienced instructors committed to nurturing artistic growth without judgment.
Digital Dance Productions
Our digital dance productions expand artistic access through film and virtual performances that maintain the emotional impact of live theater. These projects incorporate cinematic techniques with choreographic innovation to create unique viewing experiences. We produce short films, music video collaborations, and documentary content that showcase dance's versatility while maintaining our commitment to diversity and artistic experimentation.
Community Workshops
Community workshops provide accessible dance experiences that foster connection and creative expression across demographics. These sessions emphasize participatory learning while addressing specific community needs through movement-based dialogue. Our workshops create safe spaces for self-expression that align with our mission of using dance as a tool for social connection and personal empowerment.
Artist Residency Programs
Our residency programs offer emerging and established artists dedicated space and resources to develop new work in a supportive environment. These opportunities emphasize collaborative creation while providing mentorship and production support. We prioritize artists from historically marginalized communities, helping amplify diverse voices through structured residency frameworks that balance creative freedom with professional development.
People
Napoleon Gladney
Executive Director
Napoleon Gladney leads LACDC's administrative operations while championing equitable access to dance arts. He oversees strategic initiatives that align with the company's mission of fostering inclusive artistic environments through community engagement and organizational accountability.
Questions
What is LA Contemporary Dance Company's primary mission?
Our mission is to redefine contemporary dance through inclusive practices that prioritize diversity, equity, and community engagement while creating innovative performances and educational programs.
Do you offer dance classes for beginners?
Yes, we provide accessible dance education programs for all skill levels, including specialized introductory classes designed for new dancers and community members.
How does LACDC support underrepresented artists?
We implement initiatives that provide resources, performance opportunities, and mentorship specifically for Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, womxn, disabled, and LGBTQIA+ artists through our residency and workshop programs.
Where are performances typically held?
Our main performance space is at Stomping Ground LA in East Los Angeles, with additional pop-up locations across the region and digital content available online.
How can artists apply for residency programs?
Artist residency applications are accepted through our website with specific submission periods announced via our newsletter and social media channels.
Does LACDC collaborate with other arts organizations?
We actively partner with local and national arts groups for cross-disciplinary projects, community initiatives, and co-produced performances that expand our artistic impact.
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