As a haven for the arts, it’s no surprise West Michigan is home to a vibrant and diverse dance scene.
We have a number of companies providing both classical ballet and contemporary dance at the highest level, constantly pushing dance to new spaces and new heights. Even Grand Rapids Ballet’s production of a classic like The Nutcracker is unique, original and innovative, a collaborative showcase of talent between the ballet, chorus and symphony.
From traditional ballet companies to modern collectives (many of which are both), here’s a look at some of the most prominent dance organizations in the region.
Grand Rapids Ballet / grballet.com
As the only fully professional ballet company in Michigan, Grand Rapids Ballet stands as a beacon of artistic excellence in West Michigan. Founded in 1972, the company has a long, rich history of presenting classic ballets like The Nutcracker, while also consistently embracing contemporary works that push the boundaries of traditional dance at the highest level. Their mission is to lift the human spirit through the power of dance, and they play a pivotal role in the community, frequently collaborating with other organizations—including a May performance, Be Here Now—and offering classes and outreach programs.
Deos Contemporary Ballet / deosballet.com
Deos Contemporary Ballet is a relatively new yet innovative force in the West Michigan dance scene. Focused on storytelling through ballet, Deos aims to make ballet more accessible and relatable to contemporary audiences. For instance, their December show was Cracked Nuts, an “adult” take on The Nutcracker. Their May show is Awaken Series 25, featuring new works from new voices. With a dedication to high-level artistry, this company blends classical ballet techniques with modern choreography to create fresh, thought-provoking performances.
Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers / wellspringdance.org
Located in Kalamazoo, Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers is a pillar in Michigan’s contemporary dance world. Founded by Cori Terry in 1980, the company has become renowned for its experimental and boundary-pushing choreography. Wellspring emphasizes collaboration with other art forms, often integrating live music and visual arts into their performances. The company is perhaps best known for hosting Midwest RADFest, a Regional Alternative Dance Festival that invites innovative, cutting-edge dancers and dancemakers from around the world. You can check out the 17th annual RADFest in February of next year.
CPR Dance: Inhale Movement / inhalemovement.com
CPR Dance: Inhale Movement, founded by choreographer Danielle Willson, creates performances that bridge the gap between dance and social justice. Known for their expressive and visceral choreography, CPR focuses on promoting awareness and dialogue around mental health, body image, and empowerment. The company’s work often involves community engagement, utilizing dance as a tool for healing and personal growth. Check their website for the new season.
Movement Reservoir Dance Company / movementreservoirdancecompany.com
Movement Reservoir was founded just a few years ago by Lachan Niedbala to provide a creative outlet for artists and increase the Kalamazoo community’s opportunity to experience dance. They strive to create a place for artists to express their artistic voices through dance while challenging themselves to grow in an uplifting environment.
C. Glass Dance Co. / cglassdanceco.com
C. Glass Dance Co. is a unique “semi-professional adult contemporary dance community,” led by Ciara Glass, open and inclusive to dancers of all types, whether it’s seasoned professionals or beginners taking their first steps. The company aims to create innovative, moving performances that inspire and challenge audiences, pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance by fusing technical precision with heartfelt storytelling. Their next big performance is Resuscitate on May 30-31, exploring the journey of releasing guilt, shame, and anger, allowing light and renewal to take their place.
Ballet Kalamazoo / balletkalamazoo.com
A pillar of the Kalamazoo dance community, Ballet Kalamazoo focuses on providing a nurturing environment for its students. Their seasonal performances, including the holiday favorite The Nutcracker, bring joy to audiences while providing valuable performance opportunities for local dancers.
Atelier Dance Company / atelierdanceco.com
Atelier Dance Company, based in Kentwood, was established in 2020 by Arye Shannon-Carmichael as “a place to fill my artistic void and purge my choreographic ideas.” The idea was to provide a place for artists who want more than an adult dance class but less than a professional career in dance. Their focus on creating a collaborative and artist-driven environment has earned them a loyal following. Check out their show Foundations and the stories that built us on May 17.
WMU Dance / wmich.edu/dance
Western Michigan University’s dance program is home to a thriving community of dance artists. WMU Dance regularly stages performances that blend a variety of styles, including ballet, modern, jazz, and experimental dance. Their performances showcase both student choreography and works from esteemed guest artists.
Dance in the Annex (DITA) / danceintheannex.com
Dance in the Annex, or DITA, is a contemporary dance collective based in Grand Rapids. Known for its cutting-edge performances and multimedia collaborations, DITA works at the intersection of dance, film, and visual art. The company strives to bring bold, avant-garde choreography to the West Michigan stage and often engages with themes of identity, technology, and the human condition. You’ll see them around town participating in dance festivals and other collaborative performances.
CARE Ballet / careballet.org
CARE Ballet is for everyone, but they focus on making ballet accessible to young audiences through family-friendly performances. CARE was founded in 1992 with the mission of introducing children to the joy of classical ballet in an educational and accessible way, through one-hour performances. Keep an eye out for their next season announcement.
