carolyn dorfman dance
We are dedicated to the creation and presentation of contemporary dance that reveals the individual uniqueness and ultimate commonality of the human experience.
about us
Carolyn Dorfman Dance explores the fullness of life and moves people to connect to our common humanness, build understanding, and face barriers together through innovative and expressive contemporary dance.
Through the powerful choreography of founding Artistic Director Carolyn Dorfman and diverse artistic collaborators, CDD celebrates the trials and triumphs of the human story. Our long history is a journey of growth, change, and innovation through storytelling and employment of multiethnic dancers skilled in reflecting our common social connections. Our one-of-a-kind dance experiences open dialogue, and create bridges between artist, audience, and each other.
Through the creation of new work, live performance, education, and community programs, CDD moves minds, hearts, and bodies. We affirm the power of dance as a metaphor for life’s delicate balance; the individual and community existing in relation to one another in harmony and peace. CDD’s dance entertains, enlightens and encourages humans to engage in working towards a better today and a more equitable tomorrow.
We Say Yes! Come Move Human with CDD.
our mission
CDD opens dialogues between artists and audiences. Through performance, education, and community programs, we affirm the power of this dynamic art form to entertain, enlighten, engage, and connect with the communities we touch.
Carolyn Dorfman Dance creates works that speak to contemporary issues and tell individual stories revealing our common humanity. As dance is a metaphor for life, so CDD’s work opens dialogues, builds understanding and bridges within and between communities. This work demands highly skilled dancers who are extraordinary human beings, bringing passion and compassion to the work.
The Vision
cdd collaborates with diverse, innovative artists to create work that crosses cultures and arts disciplines, breaking down barriers of all kinds.
cdd’s touring company is recognized for its exceptional repertory, artists, and specialized methods of creating and presenting work.
cdd sets the standard for connecting the community by creating meaningful audience-artist interaction. CDD presents arts education, youth development, and community programs which heighten appreciation for dance at very deep levels.
cdd is an organization that embodies a humanist view in its art and practice. CDD has always embraced the practice of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company is known for supporting human resources at the highest level and provides an environment where artists, staff, board, and supporters are valued and respected and where each can reach their greatest potential.
Core Values
Connection and collaboration has been a way of life individually, organizationally, and artistically for Ms. Dorfman and Carolyn Dorfman Dance. Our core values are the operating philosophy and principles that guide CDD.
we value and honor:
mutual respect
humanness
collaboration
connecting people from all backgrounds
the importance of community
balance of the individual and the community
education
the intrinsic value of art
making an impact
integrity
loyalty
history, family, and tradition
the process is as important as the product
striving for excellence
Carolyn Dorfman Dance is supported in part by the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation; New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State; New Jersey Arts and Culture Recovery Fund; Henry S. and Mala Dorfman Foundation; the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation; Gregory S. Gallick M.D. and Staff; Jeff and Leah Kronthal/Kronthal Family Foundation; Dr. Ann Stock and Arshad Zakaria/Zakaria Family Foundation; New Jersey Cultural Trust/Department of State; The Hyde and Watson Foundation; and E.J. Grassmann Trust; among other generous foundations, corporations, and individual donors committed to Carolyn Dorfman Dance’s artistry and programming.
Carolyn Dorfman Dance is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, as defined by the Internal Revenue Service. Donations are tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations.
