Dance Prism, founded in 1982 by Scott Ranagan and Mary Demaso, is a classically focused ensemble that includes in its standard repertoire both such narrative ballets as The Nutcracker, Variations on Make Way for Ducklings the irresistible whackyness of Dance Prism's most popular family oriented ballet, A Tea Party with Alice in Wonderland, and original neoclassical works. In past years, Dance Prism has premiered The Magic of Merlin, a ballet derived from the legends of King Arthur and his mentor, the fabulous wizard Merlin; original productions of Peter Pan and Aladdin; and assembled mixed repertory programs that have included Hansel and Gretel, The Sorcerer's Apprentice, and the Russian tale of The Firebird. More recent seasons have included the iconic romantic ballets Giselle and La Sylphide, a rollicking version of Don Quixote, and the company's first full length Swan Lake. The 2015-16 Season commenced with a sparkling production of Cinderella, the most magical of fairy tales, and concluded with a new setting of A Midsummer Night's Dream in the spring. A new production of Sleeping Beauty and Dance Prism's premiere of Romeo and Juliet are planned for the 2016-2017 Season.
The primary purpose of the company is to bring the spectrum of ballet into the communities of New England. Its touring schedule regularly includes appearances in such venues as Worcester's Mechanics Hall, the Collins Center in Andover, and the Jackson Arts Center at Bristol Community College in Fall River. The company also provides performances, lecture demonstrations, and workshops for a number of private and public schools and retirement communities throughout the region.
Dance Prism is composed of approximately 25 professional dancers and apprentices, supplemented for larger productions such as The Nutcracker by serious ballet students who audition annually for the company. Dance Prism's casts include dancers based throughout the northeast region and eastern seaboard.
Dance Prism is a performance organization only.
