As the summer sun beats down on the nation's capital, the city's vibrant dance scene is heating up with a slew of exciting performances. From contemporary and ballet to hip-hop and folk, there's something for every taste and style. Here are some of the summer's best dance performances in Washington, D.C., and beyond.
**Washington, D.C.**
1. **Ailey II**: The renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's junior company brings its dynamic fusion of modern, jazz, and African dance to the Kennedy Center's Eisenhower Theater. June 14-15.
2. **The Washington Ballet's 'Cinderella'**: The company's beloved production of Prokofiev's classic ballet returns to the Warner Theatre, featuring stunning costumes and sets. June 21-July 7.
3. **BalletX**: This innovative Philadelphia-based company brings its eclectic repertoire to the National Theatre, showcasing the work of choreographers such as Troy Schumacher and Matthew Neenan. July 11-13.
4. **Dance Theatre of Harlem**: The iconic company returns to the Kennedy Center's Eisenhower Theater with a program featuring works by George Balanchine, Alvin Ailey, and other renowned choreographers. July 25-27.
**Beyond Washington, D.C.**
1. **New York City Ballet's 'Summer Festival'**: The company's annual summer celebration features a range of works by Balanchine, Robbins, and other masters at the David H. Koch Theater. June 18-July 21.
2. **American Ballet Theatre's 'Romeo and Juliet'**: The company's production of the classic ballet, featuring music by Sergei Prokofiev, comes to the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. July 1-27.
3. **The Joffrey Ballet's 'Giselle'**: The company's production of the romantic ballet, featuring music by Adolphe Adam, is a must-see at the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago. June 20-30.
4. **The National Dance Company of Wales**: This esteemed company brings its critically acclaimed production of 'The Rite of Spring' to the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York City. July 10-13.
**Outdoor and Free Performances**
1. **The National Mall's 'Dance on the Mall'**: This free outdoor festival features performances by local and national companies, including the Washington Ballet and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. June 22.
2. **The Kennedy Center's 'Millennium Stage'**: This free performance series features a range of dance companies and styles, including hip-hop and contemporary. Ongoing throughout the summer.
Whether you're a dance aficionado or just looking for a fun and exciting summer activity, these performances are sure to delight. So mark your calendars, grab a ticket, and get ready to experience the best of dance in Washington, D.C., and beyond!
