FAIR ACCESS TO ART & EDUCATION
Based in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, Cora Dance creates exceptional dance experiences while addressing barriers that restrict individuals from accessing the art form.
ABOUT CORA DANCE
Started in 1998 as a professional dance company, Cora Dance performs the works of choreographer and educator Shannon Hummel. Her “common ground” model of artmaking is reflected in nuanced, emotionally accessible dances embraced by diverse audiences from across the city and the US. With the power to touch audiences everywhere, Cora has prioritized bringing its work to communities that lack access to live performances.
In 2009, Cora opened a studio in Red Hook and established a pay-what-you-can school for dance. The high-quality programming gives priority to NYCHA and Section-8 residents and homeless families to ensure the maximum amount of access to dance education and performances for those who are usually obstructed financially. Through identifying and removing barriers, such as dance attire, shoes, meals, application assistance for middle schools, high schools, and colleges; mentorships, and internships, Cora Dance has ensured positive outcomes for its students.
Though based in Red Hook, Brooklyn Cora Dance has also prioritized bringing dance programs to isolated rural areas and plans to establish ongoing programming, specifically in the Appalachian regions of NC, VA, and WV. Through this work, they hope to bring together youth company members and rural teens to explore individual experiences of home, create work focused on local identity, and collaborate on shared presentations delving into what it is to call America home.
SUPPORT CORA DANCE
Thank you to everyone who purchased a Model One or a Model One BT in the month of April and helped us support Cora Dance. You can still support them directly at the link above and help them achieve their goal of equitable access to the art of dance.
Tivoli Audio became involved with Cora Dance through our friend, Kelly AuCoin. Watch our Behind the Dial Episode to learn more about his connection to this organization and more.