If you're looking to collaborate with or commission a choreographer who understands the pulse of contemporary dance, these five New England-based artists are shaping the scene with distinct voices and bold ideas.
The New England Contemporary Dance Scene
New England's contemporary dance landscape is a vibrant tapestry of independent choreographers, repertory companies, and educational institutions. From Boston's urban energy to the region's quieter corners, artists here are pushing boundaries, blending disciplines, and engaging with social themes. This region is known for its strong emphasis on collaboration, community engagement, and the fusion of traditional techniques with innovative approaches. Whether you're a dancer seeking new opportunities, a presenter looking for fresh work, or a student exploring the art form, these choreographers represent the diverse and dynamic nature of the field.
How We Evaluated These Choreographers
To bring you this list, we looked at each artist's creative scope, their engagement with the local community, and the clarity of their artistic mission. We considered the range of their performance and choreographic work, from site-specific pieces to collaborations with established companies. We also noted how each artist communicates their vision and connects with audiences and collaborators. Each of these choreographers stood out for their unique contributions to the region's dance ecosystem, whether through innovative spatial explorations, historical research, or a commitment to collaborative processes.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five choreographers we're highlighting, each with their own focus and strengths.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Pantos Project Dance | Pre-professional training and dynamic performances |
| Sophia Hancock | | Spatial experimentation and collaborative creation |
| Boston Dance Theater | International repertory and community engagement |
| Rachel Linsky | Historical and cultural storytelling through dance |
| Lacey Sasso | Socially relevant contemporary dance and teaching |
A Closer Look at Each Choreographer
#1 Pantos Project Dance
A screenshot of the Pantos Project Dance website.
Founded by Kat Pantos, this Boston-based company has been a fixture in the New England dance scene since 2012. With a B.S. in Dance Performance and Management from Plymouth State University, Pantos has toured nationally and worked with renowned artists like Robert Battle. The company performs across New England and New York, including at Jacob's Pillow, and is known for its educational programs and annual intensives. Pantos's choreography is sought after for its stimulating and artistically challenging nature, making her a key figure in the region.
#2 Sophia Hancock |
A screenshot of the Sophia Hancock website.
Sophia Hancock is a choreographer and dancer based in Merrimack, NH, whose work explores how bodies navigate and reshape space. Her recent pieces, such as Concurrent Divergences and An Inner Place, have been presented at festivals and museums, including the Tang Teaching Museum. She is currently developing a collection titled 'to fade,' which will be performed at events hosted by Tess Saoirse Dance Company and The Hartford Dance Collective. Hancock's background in dance and computer science informs her unique spatial approach, and her commitment to collaborative processes sets her apart. She has performed with notable companies like BalletX and worked with choreographers such as Adam Barruch and Larry Keigwin.
#3 Boston Dance Theater
A screenshot of the Boston Dance Theater website.
Under the co-artistic direction of Jessie Jeanne Stinnett and Itzik Galili, Boston Dance Theater is the city's first contemporary dance repertory company with international leadership. They are dedicated to presenting works of socio-political relevance, often in non-traditional venues like libraries and galleries. BDT's mission includes building a strong local dance community through performances, education, and outreach. Their trainee program and public classes offer pathways for emerging dancers, making them a cornerstone of Boston's dance ecosystem.
#4 Rachel Linsky
A screenshot of the Rachel Linsky website.
Rachel Linsky is a Boston-based choreographer and director of ZACHOR Dance Projects, a company that preserves Holocaust survivor testimony through dance. Her work also weaves Yiddish folk dance into contemporary practice, creating a unique fusion of history and movement. Linsky has presented at venues like the Boston Center for the Arts and MIT, and her dance films have been featured in international festivals. She is a recipient of fellowships and grants from organizations like the New England Foundation for the Arts, underscoring her impact on the field.
#5 Lacey Sasso
Lacey Sasso is a dancer, choreographer, and teacher with a rich performance history, including stints with Push Factor Dance Company and Undertoe Dance Project in New York City. She founded Sasso & Company, a Boston-based contemporary dance company, in 2014, which has performed at festivals like Dance Astoria and Jose Mateo's Dance for World Community. Sasso's choreography is known for its socially relevant themes and collaborative process. Now based in the UK, she continues to teach and create, bringing a transatlantic perspective to her work.
How to Choose the Right Choreographer for Your Project
When selecting a choreographer, consider the style and themes that resonate with your vision. If you're looking for site-specific or spatial work, Sophia Hancock's approach might be a perfect fit. For a company with a strong educational component and a track record of performances, Pantos Project Dance offers a robust option. If you're interested in works with socio-political relevance and international connections, Boston Dance Theater is a compelling choice. For those drawn to narrative and historical themes, Rachel Linsky's work is deeply moving. And if you value collaborative processes and socially conscious dance, Lacey Sasso's background is noteworthy. Think about the scale of the project, the audience you want to reach, and the kind of creative partnership you're seeking.
Streamlining Your Search for Dance Talent
Finding the right choreographer can be time-consuming, but you can streamline the process by using online platforms and social media to discover artists. Start by searching for hashtags like #NewEnglandDance or #ContemporaryDance to see who's active. Many choreographers maintain websites with portfolios and contact information, making it easy to reach out directly. You can also use tools like Google Alerts to stay updated on new works and performances in your area. Once you've shortlisted a few candidates, review their past work and reach out for a conversation to see if your visions align.
The Future of Dance in New England
These five choreographers represent the breadth and depth of contemporary dance in New England. From the spatial explorations of Sophia Hancock to the historical narratives of Rachel Linsky, each artist brings a unique perspective that enriches the region's cultural landscape. Whether you're a dancer, presenter, or enthusiast, engaging with their work offers a window into the innovative and collaborative spirit of the field. As the scene continues to evolve, these voices will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future.