Cleveland's Place in America's Dance Legacy

Join Cleveland Dance Movement for an inspiring two-day celebration of Cleveland's Place in America's Dance Legacy, featuring master classes, engaging discussions, speakers and interactive workshops led by influential figures in the dance world.

Saturday kicks off with a Contemporary Master Class by choreographer and former dancer with Bill T. Jones, Antonio Brown, followed by a deep dive into the history of modern dance with Catherine Meredith, Visiting Assistant Professor of Dance at Kent State University. Legendary dancer and choreographer Dianne McIntyre will share her creative journey and teach movement in her signature style. The first day will culminate in a panel discussion on the history of dance companies in Cleveland. Ending with a Meeting and Greet Reception.

Sunday offers a master class with Princess Grace Honoraria Emani Drake of Deeply Rooted Dance Theatre. Local artists will lead an insightful panel discussion exploring the impact on cultural influences in dance. Sunday offers a unique opporunity with Dianne McIntyre and Antonio Brown as they led a choreography workshoop, concluding with a showcase of participants' creations. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate the art of dance!

Enrollment for dancers available for one or both days. Also a lecture pass available for community members. All full day tickets include a boxed lunch. Selection picked upon ticket purchase.

Day 1: Saturday, September 27, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Welcome and Registration

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Contemporary Master Class

Dance Faculty: Antonio Brown, Choreographer and former dancer with Bill T. Jones

11:30-11:45 AM Break and grab boxed lunch

11:45 AM - 12:45 PM The Evolution of Modern Dance

Speaker: Catherine Meredith, Kent State University

An exploration of pivotal historical periods in dance, focusing on the modern dance pioneers and their lasting impact on contemporary styles. This discussion could examine the groundbreaking contributions of influential figures including Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, José Limón, Merce Cunningham, and Lester Horton. Providing an understanding of modern dance history makes it easier to see how these styles evolved and how the visionary artists of each era left their mark.

12:45-1:00 Break

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Dianne McIntyre: Sounds in Motion Dance Legacy

Speaker and Dance Faculty: Dianne McIntyre

Join an engaging and interactive lecture with the legendary dancer and choreographer Dianne McIntyre as she shares insights into her creative process and illustrious career. Through a mix of photos, videos, and personal reflections, Dianne will discuss her groundbreaking movement styles, her journey as a dancer and choreographer, and the evolution of her career path. She will also provide a sneak peek into her upcoming show, presented by Dance Cleveland in November at Playhouse Square. She will also teach movement sharing her unique style. This is a unique opportunity to connect with one of the most influential figures in modern dance and gain a deeper understanding of her artistic vision and legacy.

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Break

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Historical Influences on Dance in Cleveland

Guest Speakers: Dianne McIntyre, Kathy Karapedies, Dr. Margaret Carlson

Discussion delves into how Cleveland has played a pivotal role in shaping American dance history through its pioneering arts institutions. From the Cleveland Ballet and Cleveland Modern Dance Association to the iconic Karamu House, Verb Ballets, and Footpath, Cleveland has been a hub for innovation and creativity in the dance world. Explore the rich legacy of these institutions and their lasting impact on modern dance, both locally and nationally.

4:30 PM - 5:00 PM Meet and Greet Reception

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Welcome and Registration

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Contemporary Master Class

Dance Faculty: Imani Drake, Company Dancer Deeply Rooted

11:30-11:45 AM Break and grab boxed lunch

11:45 AM - 12:45 PM How Culture Shapes Dance, Identity, and ExpressionFacilitator:

Guest Speakers: Talise Campbell, Samuel McIntosh, Antara Datta

This insightful panel discussion explores the profound role of cultural influences in shaping dance practices. Discover how cultural dance forms have not only preserved traditions but also inspired contemporary dance forms, fostering a deeper understanding of identity, storytelling, and artistic expression.

12:45-1:00 PM Break

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Choreography Workshop

Dance Faculty: Dianne McIntyre, Antonio Brown

In this dynamic choreography session, participants will break into small groups to brainstorm and create their own movement phrases, guided by the expertise of renowned choreographers Dianne McIntyre and Antonio Brown. Over the course of 45 minutes, participants will draw inspiration from the instructors’ creative insights and leadership, exploring new ways to express ideas through dance. This hands-on, collaborative experience is perfect for dancers of all levels, offering an opportunity to learn, create, and connect in an inspiring environment.

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Break

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Final Choreography Showcase

Participants share their initial ideas and receive constructive feedback from peers and instructors.

Info: An exploration of pivotal historical periods in dance over lunch, focusing on the modern dance pioneers and their lasting impact on contemporary styles. This discussion could examine the groundbreaking contributions of influential figures including Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, José Limón, Merce Cunningham, and Lester Horton. Providing an understanding of modern dance history makes it easier to see how these styles evolved and how the visionary artists of each era left their mark.

Info: Join an engaging and interactive lecture with the legendary dancer and choreographer Dianne McIntyre as she shares insights into her creative process and illustrious career. Through a mix of photos, videos, and personal reflections, Dianne will discuss her groundbreaking movement styles, her journey as a dancer and choreographer, and the evolution of her career path. She will also provide a sneak peek into her upcoming show, presented by Dance Cleveland in November at Playhouse Square. She will also teach movement sharing her unique style. This is a unique opportunity to connect with one of the most influential figures in modern dance and gain a deeper understanding of her artistic vision and legacy.

Info: Discussion delves into how Cleveland has played a pivotal role in shaping American dance history through its pioneering arts institutions. From the Cleveland Ballet and Cleveland Modern Dance Association to the iconic Karamu House, Verb Ballets, and Footpath, Cleveland has been a hub for innovation and creativity in the dance world. Explore the rich legacy of these institutions and their lasting impact on modern dance, both locally and nationally.

Info: This insightful panel discussion over lunch explores the profound role of cultural influences in shaping dance practices. Discover how cultural dance forms have not only preserved traditions but also inspired contemporary dance forms, fostering a deeper understanding of identity, storytelling, and artistic expression.

Info: In this dynamic choreography session, participants will break into small groups to brainstorm and create their own movement phrases, guided by the expertise of renowned choreographers Dianne McIntyre and Antonio Brown. Over the course of 45 minutes, participants will draw inspiration from the instructors’ creative insights and leadership, exploring new ways to express ideas through dance. This hands-on, collaborative experience is perfect for dancers of all levels, offering a unique opportunity to learn, create, and connect in an inspiring environment.

Info: Participants share their initial ideas and receive constructive feedback from peers and instructors.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Pivot Center for Art, Dance and Expression, 2937 West 25th Street, Cleveland, United States