Transformative Change Through The Arts
Washington DC Theater Debut
From Concert Dance To DC Theater Scene
Dissonance Dance Theatre Principal Choreographer Shawn Short, joins the production team of Folger Theater’s Julius X, Directed by Nicole Brewer. Julius X is part of Folger’s 35th season (2025-2026).
“I’m excited for this oppotunity to return to theater. My humble beginnings was in theater, as a student at Howard University. I’ve worked at Adventure Theater, Catholic University of America’s Musical Theater, Kelsy E. Collie Children’s Theater Experience – formerly called Howard U Children’s Theater – but rarely in DC’s theater district.”, says Short. ” I’m excited to work with my friend Nicole, and the rest of the talented production team at Folgers.”
Learn more about Julius X in the coming months.
From DC 2 Dallas
In April 2025, Dissonance Dance Theatre’s Resident Choreographer Kareem B. Goodwin made his professional debut as Guest Choreographer with the internationally recognized Black dance company Dallas Black Dance Theater after nine years of choreographic development.
DC area family, friends, artists, and supporters gathered at the Publick Playhouse in Chevely, MD to see the premiere during DBDT’s tour engagement. We are so proud!
Dissonance Dance Theatre
Dissonance Dance Theatre is evolving! As we adapt to the changing arts landscape, DDT is launching an exciting new project-based model for our 2025-26 season.
We’re seeking versatile dancers trained in classical ballet, contemporary, jazz, and modern dance for a dynamic season of special projects. Upcoming collaborations include performances with the US Air Force Band, festival appearances, and engaging presenter partnerships across the region.
Our Impact
$2.8M Raised Since 2012
Through our transformative programming, and innovative leaderships, Ngoma Center for Dance continues to develop our communities with the support of our board, committees, patrons, and funders.
Areas Covered
Program Across Multiple States
Ngoma Center for Dance has served communities in Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Ohio, and California. Internationally, we have served participants in Canada, and Kenya.
People (Local)
Impact on the Region Since 2012
Ngoma Center for Dance has served more than 14K patrons and participants through its programs and performances.
Local Communities
Partnerships & Business Relations
Ngoma Center for Dance has built strong affinity, community, and industry relations through out the Washington, DC region. From Netflix, United States Conference on AIDS, Us Helping Us, American Psychological Association, Howard University, Catholic University of America, University of Maryland College Park, Joy of Motion Dance Center, DC Mayor’s Office, DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, Metro Weekly Magazine, and more Ngoma Center for Dance continues to bridge business through the power for creativity.
Every donation aids us in providing equity and access to many artists and families of varying backgrounds. Ngoma Center for Dance provides many programs and opportunities through the support of our generous funders, whom -without them – many artists (especially of color) would not have reached their dance dreams. DDT alumni have traveled forward to companies such as Momix, Virginia Ballet Theatre, Philadanco, Garth Fagan, Carolyn Dorfman Dance, UniverSoul Circus, Phoenix Dance Theatre (U.K.), and more…
The Ngoma School alumni roster has matriculated into Dissonance Dance Theatre trainees and apprentices. Many students have utilized Ngoma’s disciplined structure to excel in their secondary education toward acceptance into higher education.
Consider donating today, a smiling dancing face will thank you “ in step”. Click below.
Ngoma Center for Dance, the parent organization to Dissonance Dance Theatre, is a company of smart, ambitious artists, creatives, staff and administrators who work together for a common goal, dance. Together, we are building a better artistic future for our patrons, students and our communities around the Washington, D.C. area.
At Ngoma Center for Dance, we understand that an organization is only as good as its people. This simple fact is central to all that we do.
We call it “the Human Mindset” – an organization-wide commitment to attracting and developing artists (and staff alike) to insight, innovate, aid, and care. This talented being ultimately learns and grows, adding richness to our organization.
Washington DC
202-540-8338 (DC Office)
