Dance Theatre of Harlem. Photo: Jessica Dalene
Dance Theatre of Harlem returns to Guild Hall for a special evening celebrating the company’s extraordinary legacy through performance and conversation.
This intimate program features two acclaimed works from the company’s repertoire: Blake Works IV (The Barre Project)by internationally renowned choreographer William Forsythe and Higher Ground by Artistic Director Robert Garland. Created for Dance Theatre of Harlem, Forsythe’s Blake Works IV is set to the propulsive, intricately structured music of British singer-songwriter and composer James Blake, whose contemporary electronic soundscape inspires a dynamic reimagining of classical ballet vocabulary.
Garland’s Higher Ground draws on the music of Motown icon Stevie Wonder, weaving together songs including the title track “Higher Ground” and selections from Wonder’s seminal 1970s catalog. Through a vibrant fusion of ballet, social dance, and contemporary movement, the work reflects on themes of resilience, community, and social progress while exploring connections between past and present.
The evening also includes conversations with Artistic Director Robert Garland and members of the company, offering audiences unique insight into the creative process, the history and evolution of Dance Theatre of Harlem, and the artistic vision guiding the company today.
-
DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM
"What does dance give you? The freedom to be who you are and do what you want to do."
Arthur Mitchell
Co-Founder, Dance Theatre of HarlemDance Theatre of Harlem stands as a dynamic force in the ballet world, captivating audiences both nationally and internationally. Our repertoire is a thrilling blend of treasured classics, neoclassical masterpieces by George Balanchine and artistic director Robert Garland, and cutting-edge contemporary works that embody founder Arthur Mitchell's belief that ballet is for everyone. Through electrifying performances, community engagement, and arts education programs, Dance Theatre of Harlem champions the power of the arts to inspire and empower.
Since our founding in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, Dance Theatre of Harlem has been hailed as “one of ballet’s most exciting undertakings” (The New York Times). Inspired by the work of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Mr. Mitchell established a school to provide Harlem's youth with the opportunity to explore dance and the allied arts. Now celebrating over fifty-five years of excellence, DTH has evolved into a globally renowned ballet company, setting new standards in the performing arts and leaving an indelible mark on the world stage. Our extraordinary legacy continues to open doors for creative expression and artistic brilliance.
Explore our rich history and join us in celebrating the transformative power of dance.
Sponsors
Dance Theatre of Harlem Lead Sponsors: Bonita and Kevin Stewart
Dance programming is supported by Principal Sponsors SHS Foundation and the Straus Family Foundation, with additional support provided by Bonita and Kevin Stewart.
Performing Arts programs are supported by 2026 season sponsors Galia Meiri-Stawski and Axel Stawski, with additional lead support from Henry and Peggy Schleiff, The Melville Straus Family Endowment, Monica and Peter Tessler, and Vital Projects Fund.
Guild Hall’s Performing Arts programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
Additional support provided by Friends of the Theater: Natascia Ayers and Jim Ciquera, Bonnie and Joel Bergstein, Gene Bernstein and Kathy Walsh, Amy Cooney and Marty Feinman, John and Joan D’Addario, Suzanne and John Golden, Hilarie and Mitchell Morgan, Steve and Susan Pesner and Peace, in memory of Michéle Pesner, whose entire life was devoted to all aspects of culture, The Schaffner Family Foundation, Lisa Schultz and Ezriel Kornel, Stacey and Oliver Stanton, and Susi and Peter Wunsch.