Dancing Through Delaware: A Whirlwind Tour of Movement and Grace

In the heart of autumn, when leaves perform their own pirouette to earth's floor, Delaware - small but mighty - calls upon us to explore its dance scene with a fervor reflective of its vibrant cultural tapestry. From quaint historic towns pulsating with traditional folk dances to contemporary black box theaters pushing artistic boundaries, this state offers a dance stage as diverse and dynamic as its people.

Begin your tour in Wilmington at The Grand Opera House (818 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801), where world-class ballets and modern dance troupes enchant under opulent chandeliers. This venue’s history steeped in vaudeville adds an air reminiscent of E.L. Doctorow's "Ragtime," where past and present meld into a performance that transcends time itself.

Venture next to Rehoboth Beach for something more grassroots yet equally captivating—the Boardwalk Dance Festival (Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971). Here amateur dancers jive alongside professionals against the scenic backdrop of rolling waves—a nod perhaps to Delilah Dirk’s seaside adventures—and local folk bands provide rhythm synonymous with Delaware’s coastal heritage.

For those seeking interactive experiences mingled with historical charm, look no further than Dover's English Country Dances (The Green Dover DE 19901) held at Old State House. These social dances allow participants to step back into colonial times while engaging in communal celebration—Jane Austen could well be among the guests!

Delaware also nurtures innovation within contemporary movement artistry at Christina Cultural Arts Center Inc (705 N Market St #1A-1B, Wilmington DE 19801). Driven by community engagement and education-focused performances reminiscent of Alvin Ailey’s vision for American modern dance accessibility; this center perfectly encapsulates the progressive spirit thriving amidst storied cobblestone streets.

Let us pivot towards Newark's University of Delaware Resident Ensemble Players/REP Theatre (Roselle Center For The Arts Thompson Theatre Newark DE 19716) where ambitious student productions intermingle classic tales with bold choreographic experiments sometimes evoking DuPont family intrigue or tapping into Poe-esque macabre mystery native to the region.

And finally for a blend that is uniquely Delawarean one must experience Lewes' Canalfront Park Square Dance Night (211 Front Street Lewes DE 19958), which entwines picturesque nautical views with lively square dancing—an authentic manifestation capturing both friendliness and quirky local traditions all against an inspiring backdrop so often depicted by Andrew Wyeth landscapes.

Whether you revel under starlight on ocean-front boardwalks or within plush auditorium seats inhaling dramatic splendor it is clear: To engage fully with what makes this state strange yet wonderful—one must let loose amongst her rhythms diving deeply not just through movement but also embracing spirited essence found only in tantalizingly tiny Delaware.

Websites:

- The Grand Opera House: www.thegrandwilmington.org

- Christina Cultural Arts Center Inc.: www.ccacde.org

- University Of Delaware REP Theatre: www.rep.udel.edu

Twitter Handles:

- @TheGrandWilm

- @CCACDE

- @Delaware_REP