Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

While many modern dance companies express one choreographer's creativity, this engaging Ohio ensemble embraces a galaxy of black modern dance classics. Its bountiful repertoire possesses works by the likes Donald McKayle, Talley Beatty, Jose Limon, Bill T. Jones, and Bebe Miller. Dayton Contemporary Dance Company's radiant, culturally diverse 14 dancers from around the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Japan prompt critics to remark, "This company is capable of teaching us what it is to care, what it is to be human..."

About the Company

Dayton Contemporary Dance Compay (DCDC) began in 1968 as an ensemble of young women brought together by their teacher, Jeraldyne Blunden. Widely revered for her artistic vision of contemporary dance, Ms. Blunden was honored with the MacArthur 'Genius' Fellowship in 1995, the Dance Magazine Award in 1998, and the Dance/USA 2000 Honors. The company's open door policy, encouraging choreographers to spend time working with its dancers, largely explains DCDC's ability to acquire masterpieces. For example, Ulysses Dove's Vespers (1986) and (1990) were originally created in DCDC's studios. Kevin Ward was named the company's artistic director after the untimely death of Jeraldyne Blunden in November 1999. Her daughter, Debbie Blunden-Diggs, is associate artistic director/director of education.

Critic's Comments

"...a multicultural troupe that has a signature style rooted not so much in power as in speed, suppleness and intricacy..."

- The New York Times

"Today, DCDC is renowned for its dancers, who embody a powerful balance of strong versatile technique and passionate expression, as well as for its repertory."
- Time Out New York

Evening's Program

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of flight

On the Wings of Angels — choreography by Warren Spears, music by John Adams, Steve Reich. A tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen, the African American aviators who provided aerial combat support during WWII

and before — choreography by Bill T. Jones, music by Bach. Evoking the collaborative effort necessary to achieve flight.

Children of the Passage — choreography by Donald McKayle and Ronald K. Brown, music by the Dirty Doizen Brass Band. A rousing finale exaulting the African influence in American modern dance.

Performances at Northrop

1995 and 2003