Dimensions Dance Theater

Dimensions Dance Theater in Oakland creates, performs, and teaches traditional and contemporary dance that centers on African American and African diasporic culture and experiences. Dimensions’ professional company presents two to four productions each year, often combining elements of dance, music, storytelling, and spoken word. The organization serves over 1,000 youth annually in after-school and out-of-school programs that provide dance education, cultural field trips, and performance opportunities. The organization also serves adult community members through community dance classes. Support of Dimensions Dance Theater aligns with the Performing Arts Program’s Communities strategy.

Dimensions Dance Theater’s public performances featuring African, jazz, and modern dance forms reach more than 7,500 people each year. In addition, its Rites of Passage program provides dance instruction to 900 students in Oakland public schools; 150 students attend after-school classes at the organization’s downtown dance studio. Beyond imparting formal dance technique, the company engages youth in developing original works of choreography that address issues in their lives, including teen pregnancy and conflict resolution.