Cultivating Excellence. Inspiring Artistry. Shaping the Future of Dance.

Katherine Smith Contemporary Dance Ensemble (KSCDE) is dedicated to the pursuit of artistic excellence, creative expression, and the continued evolution of dance. Through disciplined training, artistic exploration, and meaningful performance opportunities, we empower today's dancers to become tomorrow's professional artists, leaders, and innovators in the dance community.

Rooted in a shared passion for the preservation, appreciation, and advancement of dance, KSCDE is committed to cultivating an environment where artistry thrives, talent is nurtured, and dancers of all generations are inspired to reach their fullest potential. As an established and evolving dance institution in the Washington Metropolitan area, KSCDE serves as a platform for emerging, pre-professional, and professional artists to grow, collaborate, and showcase their artistic voices.

As an open and inclusive performing ensemble, KSCDE creates opportunities for dancers to expand their artistic experiences through live performances, community outreach initiatives, cross-disciplinary collaborations, and partnerships with established professional artists. Ensemble members engage in dynamic choreographic experiences featuring original works by the Artistic Director and distinguished guest choreographers, encouraging versatility, creativity, and artistic excellence.

KSCDE is more than a dance ensemble; it is a multi-generational artistic community built on three fundamental objectives:

1. ADVANCING ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE
To provide advanced-level youth dancers with opportunities to strengthen their technical abilities, expand their artistic expression, and develop the discipline, confidence, and versatility necessary to pursue professional dance careers.

2. ELEVATING THE ART OF DANCE
To encourage, challenge, and support the continued growth of professional and emerging dancers throughout the Washington Metropolitan area, creating pathways for artistic advancement and professional development.

3. SUSTAINING THE ARTIST WITHIN
To provide adult performing artists with a meaningful platform to continue refining their craft, maintain their artistic presence, explore new creative possibilities, and pursue or rediscover their passion for dance.

Through education, performance, collaboration, and community engagement, KSCDE remains committed to preserving the art of dance while creating opportunities that inspire the next generation and sustain the artistic journeys of those who continue to make dance their passion, profession, and purpose.