A Hop, Skip, and Jump Away: Where to See Dance Performances in NYC
From classical to conceptual, you’ll love New York’s premiere dance venues.
New York City has no shortage of options for live entertainment, from underground comedy clubs to interactive theater and Broadway spectaculars. Among this smorgasbord of shows, dance and movement-based art abound. Whether you’re looking for ballerinas en pointe or want a peek of the latest in experimental choreography, here are some of the best places to see and celebrate dance in the Big Apple.
1. The Joyce
Dubbed “the international leader in dance presentation,” the Joyce has been around since 1982. The Joyce doesn’t limit itself to one genre of dance; instead, it hosts a wide spectrum of groups from all over the world. This season, sample contemporary ballet, ensemble-based modern, or traditional hula, on top of groups specializing in jazz, tap, and swing.
The Joyce is located at 175 8th Avenue.
2. Lincoln Center
A sprawling 16.3-acre arts complex, Lincoln Center hosts 11 resident arts organizations and a rotating schedule of additional programming. Currently, the Center is hosting multiple festivals that celebrate cutting-edge dance and experimental choreography. Lincoln Center is also home to the New York City Ballet’s famed production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. For something a bit more out-of-the-box, check out Paul Taylor Dance Company’s modern repertoire.
Lincoln Center is located at 10 Lincoln Center Plaza.
3. Brooklyn Academy of Music
Heading to Brooklyn during your visit to NYC? Stop by the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM). This multi-genre, multi-theater arts space showcases a wide variety of music, cinema, theater, performance art, and, yes, dance. BAM’s dance programming skews more toward the experimental; this season includes performances from Big Dance Theater, a unique physical theater venture, and DanceAfrica, the largest African dance and music festival in the country.
BAM is located at 30 Lafayette Avenue in Brooklyn.
4. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
In 1958, the choreographer and performer Alvin Ailey founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater to provide a home for his acclaimed company of black modern dancers. Since then, the theater has blossomed into a full-blown cultural and community center, with shows choreographed by Ailey and others running regularly.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is located at 405 West 55th Street.
5. Company XIV
Mixing burlesque, drag, classical ballet, and modern dance, Company XIV have been performing their unique and ambitious productions for years — but only recently opened a venue of their own. Head to Bushwick this winter to catch the company’s latest production: The Nutcracker Rouge, a saucy, “adults-only” take on the George Balanchine classic.
Company XIV’s Théatre XIV is located at 383 Troutman Street in Brooklyn.
6. New York Live Arts
No dance company blends the theatrical with the musical quite like New York Live Arts (NYLA). Led by award-winning artist and choreographer Bill T. Jones, NYLA offers a diverse range of performances, from showcases featuring their emerging artist residency program to a multidisciplinary dance production infused with gospel singing. You may even see an original piece choreographed by Jones himself.
New York Live Arts is located at 219 West 19th Street.
7. Gibney Dance
Part training center, part performance venue, and part dance ensemble, Gibney Dance seeks to “bring the possibility of movement where it otherwise would not exist” in underserved shelters and schools. The focal point of this season’s roster is the DoublePlus series, in which established artist-curators pair two emerging dance talents, mentoring them in the creative and developmental stages of dance.
Gibney Dance is located at 280 Broadway.
The best way to experience dance is to see it live. Book your stay now at one of Affinia’s midtown locations to enjoy world-class performances at these incredible venues, and take advantage of our Suite Shopping Spree to receive 25% off suites and a $50 American Express gift card.
