Dance Theatre of Harlem company members performing a piece titled Higher Ground. Photo by DTH.
Globally renowned ballet company Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) is returning to the TCU campus almost 50 years after its first three-day residency in 1975. The School for Classical & Contemporary Dance will host a two-day educational program of an open rehearsal, a community event, and a public panel discussion.
DTH was founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell, an internationally acclaimed artist and the first African American principal dancer to join the New York City Ballet in 1955. Mitchell established DTH to challenge the industry’s exclusive practices and pioneered multifaceted programs to educate and celebrate the belief that dance belongs to everyone.
Company members will also visit three Fort Worth high schools with dance programs to share their expertise and perspective with local area students through master classes and career conversations on dance.
The public panel includes the executive and artistic leaders of DTH:
- Anna Glass, executive director
- Virginia Johnson, artistic director
- Robert Garland, resident choreographer & artistic director designate
Keith Saunders, assistant professor of professional practice, will moderate.
The executive leaders will explore the creation of DTH and Mitchell’s pursuit of creative expression and artistic excellence. The discussion will then transition to the present generation of DTH members continuing his mission.
“The residency will be a learning tool to develop as a professional artist and expand possible career avenues,” said Saunders. “Students will interact closely with a professional organization and understand what it takes to maintain a reputation for excellence.”
The open rehearsal, community event and panel discussion are free and open to the public. Registration is required.