Business Details
Premier Contemporary Dance Company in Dallas, TX
Bruce Wood Dance is a contemporary dance company dedicated to harnessing the transformative power of dance to entertain, enrich, and heal. Founded on the artistic legacy of Bruce Wood, a nationally acclaimed choreographer, the company is led by Artistic Director Joy Bollinger, a recognized leader in the Dallas arts community. Our repertoire features 35 commissions from renowned choreographers and masterworks by icons like Lar Lubovitch and Twyla Tharp, reflecting a commitment to innovation and diversity in dance. We tour nationally, offering performances, workshops, and educational programs that engage audiences of all ages. Recognized as Best Dance Company by D Magazine multiple times, we prioritize community impact through initiatives like free performances for underserved groups and outreach programs addressing social justice.Our productions, described as emotionally charged and highly kinetic, celebrate the human experience through movement. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, we rely on donations to sustain our mission of making dance accessible to all. Our team of professional dancers and educators brings decades of combined experience, ensuring artistic excellence and educational value in every program. We maintain partnerships with cultural institutions and educational organizations to expand our reach and deepen our impact. Through rigorous touring and community engagement, we strive to be a beacon of artistic expression and social connection in Texas and beyond.
Services
Contemporary Dance Performances
Dance Education Programs
Community Outreach Initiatives
Choreography Commissions
Master Classes
Dance Intensives
Emerging Choreographer Mentorships
Film Screenings
Behind-the-Scenes Events
Touring Performances
Highlights and features
- We are a six-time Best Dance Company award winner by D Magazine.
- Our artistic director was named one of Dallas' 78 Women Who Make Great by D Magazine.
- We maintain a diverse repertoire featuring 35 commissions by acclaimed choreographers.
- Our national touring program reaches audiences across Texas and at major U.S. festivals.
- We offer free community engagement experiences for underserved populations.
Services
Contemporary Dance Performances
Our contemporary dance performances feature emotionally charged choreography that combines technical precision with storytelling. Audiences experience dynamic movement and innovative staging that explores human themes. The company presents both classic works and new commissions at venues across Texas and nationally.
Dance Education Programs
We offer comprehensive dance education through master classes, intensives, and workshops led by professional artists. Programs develop technical skills, choreographic abilities, and performance experience for students of all levels. Our instructors include company dancers and guest artists from across the dance world.
Community Outreach Initiatives
Our outreach initiatives provide free dance experiences to underserved populations through performances, workshops, and social justice programs. We partner with recovery centers, schools, and community organizations to make dance accessible to all. Initiatives include anti-racism discussions and healing-focused dance activities.
Choreography Commissions
We commission contemporary choreographers to create innovative new works that expand our artistic repertoire. The company has produced 35 commissions from acclaimed artists, maintaining a balance between established masters and emerging voices. These works form the core of our performance seasons.
Emerging Choreographer Mentorships
This program supports the growth of young choreographers through mentorship with professional artists. Participants receive guidance on creating works for showcases, college auditions, and professional settings. The mentorship includes feedback sessions and access to rehearsal resources.
People
Joy Bollinger
Artistic Director/Resident Choreographer
Joy Bollinger, a D Magazine 78 Women Who Make Dallas Great honoree, leads the company with artistic vision. She has expanded the repertoire through strategic commissions and maintains Bruce Wood's legacy while guiding new creative directions.
Bruce Wood
Founder/Artistic Director
Bruce Wood (1960-2014) was a nationally acclaimed choreographer who created 80 works during his career. His artistic legacy forms the foundation of the company, emphasizing dance's power to connect and heal through emotionally charged movement.
Gayle Halperin
Booking Contact
Gayle Halperin manages performance bookings and venue partnerships for the company. She facilitates connections between the dance company and presenting organizations to expand the company's touring reach.
Pam Deslorieux
Development Contact
Pam Deslorieux coordinates donor relations and corporate partnerships for Bruce Wood Dance. She manages legacy giving programs and facilitates in-kind contributions to support the company's mission.
Olivia Davis
Education Outreach Coordinator
Olivia Davis directs community education programs including weekly classes at recovery centers and schools. She implements outreach initiatives that make dance accessible to diverse populations through technique instruction and performance opportunities.
Questions
What type of dance does Bruce Wood Dance Dallas perform?
We specialize in contemporary dance featuring innovative choreography that combines emotional depth with athletic movement.
Do you offer community outreach programs?
Yes, we provide free dance education, performances, and social justice initiatives through our outreach programs.
How are donations used?
Donations support our mission to present world-class productions and free community engagement experiences.
Are you on the Texas Commission on the Arts Touring Roster?
Yes, we've been on the roster since 2016 with booking fee support available for presenters.
Can students participate in your programs?
We offer master classes, intensives, and mentorship opportunities for emerging choreographers and dancers.
Videos
Reviews (1)
S. H.
Jul 18, 2019
Report
New York's Joyce Theater gave you a standing ovation of the whole house because you were astounding. Thank you!
