Call Now
Website
Call
Business Details
50 Years
experience
Dallas Black Dance Theatre | Premier Dance Company in Dallas
Dallas Black Dance Theatre has been a transformative force in the dance world since 1976. Founded by Ann Williams, we are the oldest continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas, dedicated to preserving cultural heritage through contemporary modern dance. Our ensemble of full-time professional dancers performs a diverse repertoire spanning classical, modern, jazz, African, and spiritual works by renowned choreographers. Through our official school, Dallas Black Dance Academy, established in 1973, we cultivate the next generation of dance artists while offering classes for all ages and skill levels. Our mission extends beyond performance, serving as a powerful advocate for cultural preservation in North Texas and beyond. With decades of experience, we combine artistic excellence with community engagement, offering educational programs, outreach initiatives, and performances that inspire audiences.

Our commitment to innovation is evident in our seasonal productions, including signature series like KALEIDOSCOPE and PRISMATIC, which celebrate cultural diversity and artistic discovery. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on community support to sustain our programs, offering membership benefits and donor recognition to those who share our vision. From our historic home at 2700 Ann Williams Way, we continue to break barriers through dance, fostering inclusivity and artistic expression. Our leadership team, including Academy Director Katricia Eaglin, brings deep industry expertise and a passion for nurturing talent. Whether through our main company, DBDT: Encore!, or our youth performing ensembles, we remain committed to excellence in dance education and performance.
Services
Dance Performances Dance Education Cultural Preservation Community Outreach Youth Programs
Details
  • Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
  • We have over 45 years of experience as Dallas' oldest professional dance company.
  • Our three-tiered organization includes a renowned academy and youth development programs.
  • We offer culturally significant performances that preserve African-American heritage.
  • Our professional ensemble features full-time dancers with international training.
  • We provide community-focused programming with educational outreach to local youth.
Services
Dance Performances
Our professional dance company presents diverse performances featuring contemporary modern dance, classical works, and culturally significant pieces. Audiences experience innovative choreography from nationally recognized artists across multiple annual seasons and special events.
Dance Education
Dallas Black Dance Academy offers comprehensive dance instruction for all ages and skill levels. Our curriculum includes ballet, modern, jazz, and African dance techniques taught by experienced instructors in a supportive learning environment.
Cultural Preservation
We maintain and promote African-American cultural heritage through dance. Our programming preserves traditional works while creating new pieces that reflect contemporary cultural narratives and historical significance.
Community Outreach
Our outreach initiatives bring dance education to local communities through school partnerships, public performances, and scholarship programs. We develop young talent and make dance accessible to diverse populations across North Texas.
Performance Ensembles
We offer multiple performance opportunities through our main company, DBDT: Encore!, and youth ensembles. These groups provide professional development for emerging dancers while delivering high-quality performances at local and regional events.
People
Ann Williams
Founder
Ann Williams founded Dallas Black Dance Theatre in 1976 after a successful dance career. She established the company to preserve African-American dance heritage and create professional opportunities for diverse artists in Dallas.
Katricia Eaglin
Academy Director
Katricia Eaglin directs the Dallas Black Dance Academy, overseeing dance education programs. A former professional dancer with DBDT, she brings extensive performance experience and local knowledge to youth development initiatives.
Questions
What types of dance does Dallas Black Dance Theatre perform?
We perform contemporary modern dance with repertoire including classical, jazz, African, and spiritual works by nationally recognized choreographers.
Does Dallas Black Dance Theatre offer dance classes?
Yes, our official school Dallas Black Dance Academy offers classes for all ages and skill levels in multiple dance disciplines.
How can I support Dallas Black Dance Theatre?
Support through memberships, planned giving, matching gifts, or community rewards programs helps sustain our artistic and educational initiatives.
What is the history of Dallas Black Dance Theatre?
Founded in 1976 by Ann Williams, we are Dallas' oldest continuously operating professional dance company with a focus on cultural preservation.
Where are performances held?
Performances take place at venues including the Majestic Theatre, Moody Performance Hall, and Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas.