MEN IN DANCE

Mission

MEN IN DANCE is committed to supporting and producing cutting-edge male identifying concert dance, in all of its color. We believe that the male dance artist brings a uniqueness to the stage that is often overlooked and underserved. Goals: To create performance opportunities for male identifying dancers, regardless of their age, race, orientation, and experience, and to encourage choreographers of all gender expressions to create new work around the male dancer.

Description

MEN IN DANCE was founded in 1994 when the opportunities for male dance artists in the concert dance realm seemed very limited.  We dedicated ourselves to creating those concert opportunities and to do it with the highest quality of talent possible. We also knew that young men and boys did not have many role models to emulate and we wanted to help present and develop excellent male dancers for the future.  We set about to create a dance festival, at that time biennial, that would feature male dance artists performing pieces from choreographers of all sexes. We also encouraged the interaction of professional artists with the male dance student.   In finding the most diverse artists possible, we set out with the intention of making this festival available to the widest possible audience, providing tickets to communities under duress, most especially underserved youth and people living with HIV and AIDS.  We also recognized the need for educational workshops where male choreographers and teachers could share their expertise in public forums for male dance.

As part of the growing nature of society, the large role the arts plays in humanity, and in recognition of the nuances of gender expression in our field we expanded our scope in 2018 to celebrate all male-identifying individuals.  We believe it is our responsibility to engage with the cultural conversation and give it platforms to exist and be showcased in all its beautiful forms. 

Recognition

We are very grateful for our MEN IN DANCE Volunteer Board who help us accomplish and realize our vision for our Festival and Showcase performances. We would also like to recognize the City of Seattle Civic Partners Program for being a Grant founder of both of our events. And, most importantly, to thank our long term supporters and friends. You have been with us from the beginning, and it is because of them that we thrive today!