FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 23, 2022
CONTACT: Johanna Tschebull
Washington, DC – Dance/USA, the national service organization for dance, announced today the recipients of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Female Choreographers in Ballet Initiative, generously supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. With this initiative, Dance/USA will address ongoing inequities in the dance ecosystem and amplify the creative voice and vision of BIPOC female choreographers.
Building on past partnerships and initiatives, and in line with Dance/USA’s mission to champion an equitable and inclusive dance field, Dance/USA awarded grants to mid-size member ballet companies to support newly commissioned works by BIPOC female choreographers for the 2022-2023 season. Selected by a peer panel, the funded choreographers and companies are Sidra Bell at Nashville Ballet, Sidra Bell at Nevada Ballet Theatre, Natrea Blake at Orlando Ballet, Rena Butler at Oklahoma City Ballet, and Stephanie Martinez and Caili Quan at Sacramento Ballet. Learn about the choreographers here.
Dance/USA Executive Director Kellee Edusei commented, “I’m thrilled to uplift these creative and insanely talented artists! It’s vital for the future of our field to amplify their voices and weave new connections and relationships across the ecosystem. We’re grateful for the support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation to launch this initiative.”
About Dance/USA
Propelled by our belief that dance can inspire a more just and humane world, Dance/USA will amplify the power of dance to inform and inspire a nation where creativity and the field thrive.
Established in 1982, Dance/USA champions an inclusive and equitable dance field by leading, convening, advocating, and supporting individuals and organizations. Dance/USA’s core programs are focused in the areas of engagement, advocacy, research, and preservation. Learn more about Dance/USA at danceusa.org.
