BAAND Together: A Celebration of Dance and Diversity in NYC

As the sun sets over Lincoln Center, the air vibrates with anticipation. Five of New York City’s most acclaimed dance companies are set to share the stage for the fifth annual BAAND Together Dance Festival, an event that celebrates the resilience, creativity, and diversity of the arts. Amidst the jazz notes echoing through the atrium, the unmistakable rhythms of modern dance meld with the classical elegance of ballet, reflecting a spirit of unity forged through adversity.

The Significance of BAAND Together Dance Festival

Founded in the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, the BAAND Together Dance Festival emerged as a beacon of hope. Eduardo Vilaro, artistic director of Ballet Hispánico, states, “This festival began as a gesture of hope during a time of crisis. It has since transformed into a community celebration, showcasing the very essence of what makes New York extraordinary.” With a strong emphasis on community and inclusivity, the festival aims not just to entertain but also to educate and engage.

The festival runs from July 29 to August 2 and features an exciting lineup of performances that highlight the unique artistry of each company. Despite their distinct styles, the five companies—Ballet Hispánico, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, and Dance Theatre of Harlem—come together to present an exquisite program, curated collaboratively. Attendees will be treated to a blend of classic repertoire and innovative works, embodying the New York dance scene’s rich tapestry.

Five National Treasures on One Stage

• Ballet Hispánico: Celebrating Latinx culture through ballet, the company offers a dynamic intermingling of genres.
• Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: Known for its powerful storytelling through contemporary dance, it showcases the African American experience.
• American Ballet Theatre: Renowned for its classic and theatrical ballet traditions, ABT remains a pillar of excellence.
• New York City Ballet: Famed for its innovative choreography, this company is synonymous with George Balanchine’s vision.
• Dance Theatre of Harlem: A leader in promoting diversity in dance, it reimagines ballet with a fresh perspective.

Each evening’s performances will not only highlight individual artistry but also spotlight the collaborative spirit that the festival embodies. Matthew Rushing, co-artistic director of Alvin Ailey, elaborates, “This convergence is a moment for us to transcend our individual identities and create something larger than ourselves.” According to studies by the National Endowment for the Arts, collaborative artistic endeavors can lead to a significant increase in community engagement, highlighting the unique role arts play in society.

Engaging the Community Beyond the Stage

This year, for the first time, attendees will have the opportunity for an off-stage peek into the creative processes of these iconic companies. A free panel discussion on July 29 will feature the artistic leaders of each company, moderated by Shanta Thake, the Ehrenkranz Chief Artistic Officer of Lincoln Center. This conversation will elucidate the challenges and triumphs of working collaboratively in a sector that has undergone significant transformation.

The daily dance workshops in the David Geffen Hall lobby will further democratize the art form, inviting audiences of all ages to participate. From hip-hop to classical ballet, these workshops will offer a hands-on experience, emphasizing that dance is not just for spectators but also for creators. Susan Jaffe, artistic director of American Ballet Theatre, notes, “The future of dance lies in its accessibility. Workshops like these can inspire the next generation of artists.” Research from the Arts Education Partnership confirms that participatory arts experiences significantly enhance creativity and problem-solving skills in youth.

A Glimpse into the Future

The trajectory of the BAAND Together Dance Festival highlights a significant shift in the approach to community engagement within the arts. The festival not only champions individual artistic expression but also fosters an environment that encourages collaboration across diverse dance forms. As the artistic directors of the participating companies have articulated, this is about more than just the performances; it is about crafting a narrative that resonates with the city’s multifaceted identity.

“These performances are a reminder that the arts are a vital force that brings people together and lifts us all,” state the artistic directors. As New Yorkers and visitors prepare to gather at Lincoln Center this summer, they will not merely witness an event, but rather partake in a larger conversation about unity, diversity, and the intrinsic value of the arts in forging community bonds. In an age where division can often seem more pronounced, the BAAND Together Dance Festival stands as a tribute to the power of collaboration and creativity, emphasizing that even the most disparate movements can harmonize into a symphony of shared human experience.