DC Dance Collective's Resident Companies
DC Dance Collective strives to allow its artists an unprecedented amount of freedom in which to explore the creative process. As part of this continuing goal, we are proud to have several professional performance companies and movement education programs in residence at the studio.
Each program approaches the creative and educational process in their own fashion. Below are brief descriptions of the ideologies of each, as well as links to obtain additional detailed information.
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Ancient Rhythms Dance Troupe
The word "dance" comes from the sanskrit word "tanha", which means "the joy of life". In the Middle East, "dance" is derived from Arabic "raks" and the Turkish "rakkash" meaning "to celebrate". It is this joyful collective energy that Ancient Rhythms Dance Troupe share in their performances, reflecting dance as an expression of human beauty. Ancient Rhythms Artistic Director, Karen McLane (Najwah) began studying the art of Middle Eastern Belly Dance over twenty years ago and performed as a soloist in hundreds of shows the world over. Through her long years of teaching, several of her students excelled in the art and thus, Ancient Rhythms Dance Troupe evolved. They boast a wonderfully diverse group of performers from ages 17 to 54. The members of Ancient Rhythms believe that the movements of Middle Eastern Belly Dance are so deeply rich and inherently natural to a woman's body that they can move you to transcend and transform.
An original story as told through Middle Eastern Dance. Through the mystical and magical journey of a spoiled princess long ago and far away, the universal message is conveyed that the Light is ever present, we have only to remember. The production is funded in part by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities in appreciation of our efforts to promote the culture and the traditional dance of the Middle East.
More Information at: www.najwah.com
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Gotta' Dance Performance Company
We perform rhythm and Broadway tap numbers, as well as showcase the talents of other dance companies performing a variety of dance styles including hula, flamenco, hip hop, swing, ballroom, break dancing, and jazz. We dance at festivals, community centers, and outreach events. We even do flash dance mobs.
Our group was founded by a collective love of the art of tap dance and the desire to share it with the community. We have entertaining, family-friendly routines to present to a variety of organizations. We are a fun-loving group of people who would love to tap for you! Please contact us if you would like us and our dancing/singing friends to put on a show for you or even a flash dance mob. We would also love to hear from you if you or your group would like to join us in our next show or you are a dedicated tapper interested in joining Gotta Dance.
Please look at our photos and videos on our website at www.gottadancedc.com, and like our Facebook page.
If you would like to join our company or have us perform at your next event, give us a call -- because we Gotta' Dance! Contact Andrea at (301) 229-6957, or reach us at DC Dance Collective (202) 362-7244.
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Studio G dance group at DCDC
Studio G is a resident group at DC Dance Collective with dancers from all around the DC Metropolitan area. Our members have experience performing individually in small solo performances or in medium sized groups for ensemble pieces. Our members have performed for a variety of venues including corporate functions, fundraisers, festivals, and private parties. Dance styles available within Studio G include popping, locking, house dancing, bboying, to name a few.
If you looking for a performance or private lessons, contact us at studiog@dcdancecollective.com -
Capital Funk
More Information at: www.capitalfunk.com

