Introducing RJDT

Today marks the day that Ruby Josephine Dance Theater officially launches into the public sphere. This company has been a long time coming, and is such a culmination of works, people and places that I have had the incredible fortune of gathering and experiencing. As a brand new company, I aim to build its foundation with core values of authenticity, inclusivity, bravery, curiosity and imagination. With these in mind, here are the intentions & future projects for RJDT:

-To create contemporary dance-based performance work that is theatrical and emotionally resonant to its audience, appealing to dancers and non-dancers and people from different backgrounds & perspectives.
-To host classes & workshops grounded in contemporary dance technique, focusing on physical and emotional expression and finding ones own voice through movement.
-To bring together both international & local communities through collaborations and events.

If this sounds like something you want to be a part of, there are so many ways to join in and support this new work, including following us on instagram, sharing our website & social media with friends and family, contributing foundational financial support, and signing up for our newsletter. This company would not be possible without the support I have already received from community members in the Twin Cities and around the world. Special thanks to the incredible group of dancers who will be featured in this company’s premiere production, scheduled for early February 2024, and a big thank you to several local institutions: Hothouse Minneapolis, Zenon Dance School, and Karen Charles of Threads Dance Project for their constant uplifting of my work.

I cannot wait to share more projects and events that are upcoming in the very near future for RJDT, and to see this company build and grow.
Thank you for being here.
Stay tuned.

-Ruby Josephine Smith, founder & artistic director