OmniArts has 20 programs available in Dance. Programs in this area include artists proficient in ballet, cultural dances of India, Africa, and Latin America, as well as modern dance.

Welcome to the Ballet

Two adult dancers are involved in this program, which consists of 2-3 ballet pieces, including a pas de deux. A lecture-demonstration is presented, with the help of their ballet students, to show what a ballet class is like. Their repertoire includes dances from “Swan Lake,” “The Nutcracker,” “Sleeping Beauty,” and some original pieces choreographed by Mr. Johnston. There is a question and answer period.

On Stage

This dance program introduces concepts of space, time and energy through modern, tap, ballet or ethnic dance. A narrator introduces and discusses each dance presented and leads audience participation activities. The presentation encourages appreciation of design, form, self-expression and the power of dance. The company includes excerpts from their current repertory and entertains questions after the presentation.

Ballet

This duo explains many aspects of ballet dancing and performs dances from different ballets, including some from the “Nutcracker.” They demonstrate steps, giving their French names and English meanings. They also show a shortened version of a ballet class, with barre work, jumps, stretches and partnering. They usually include the students, and let them inspect a pair of pointe shoes. Questions are taken at the end.

Dancing Between the Lines

This performance features a solo dancer/artist-educator who uses personal stories and folk tales such as “And the People Could Fly” to highlight the themes of positive self image and the strength/energy of empowering words. Ms. Boyd employs modern dance, improvisation, theatrical movement gesture and storytelling that engage, educate and empower and includes audience participation.

Detroit-Windsor Dance Co. Quartet

This 3-4 member company offers educational programs that utilize lecture and costumed dance demonstrations. The company has a varied repertoire ranging from American contemporary dance to the dramatic or abstract. Universal themes are explored with vitality and strength. The program ends with a question and answer exchange.

Kids 'N Motion

This professional company presents an action-packed and athletic presentation designed to inspire and educate students about the art of dance. Using narration and audience participation, the Eisenhower Dance Ensemble encourages boys and girls to become involved and excited about movement. Audiences are also treated to the thrill of a live performance with excerpts from the company’s current repertory of contemporary choreography. The dancers definitely inspire children in learning, creating, and enjoying dance.

African, Hip Hop, Modern, Plus

This 2-woman duo introduces basic dance movements (ballet, modern, jazz), with an emphasis on African styles. Visual aids are shown and various instruments (drums, shekere, bell, maracas, etc.) are demonstrated. The audience participates with calls and responses.

Scottish Dance

This program takes students on a journey of Scotland through history, music, dance and song. The students see 3-5 Highland and National dances performed and hear the history of how they originated. They may learn to dance the Highland fling. They are also introduced to the ancient bagpipe, the wearing of ancient garb and a dozen Gaelic words. There is a “sing along” at the end. Student dancers are part of the program.

Dancing Through Time

These energetic dancers take the audience on a visually-oriented tour of dance through the ages. They perform and talk about the history of a variety of dance forms, opening with a clever tap routine. They go on to discuss and perform ballet, pointe, lyrical dance and hip-hop, or jazz. There is audience participation and several costume changes.

Native American Dance & Culture

This cultural presentation interweaves dances with Native American beliefs (especially respect for the earth) and language. The dancers are a full-blooded Winnebago Indian, and his wife, a Paiute. Their daughter may join them. They explain and demonstrate the dance styles they perform, including men's and women's traditional, men's fancy dance and women's jingle dress style. Various artifacts from different tribes across the US and Canada, such as instruments, baskets and dream catchers are also shown. Audience volunteers are chosen to dance while wearing some outfit pieces. There is time for questions at the end.