Cleo Parker Robinson Dance - Denver, Colorado

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance: A Legacy of Dance and Performance

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD) stands as a cornerstone of the performing arts community in Denver, Colorado, and a nationally recognized institution dedicated to preserving and promoting African and Afro-American dance traditions. Established in 1973 by the visionary choreographer and dancer, Cleo Parker Robinson, the company has evolved from a small studio into a vibrant dance school, a respected non-profit organization, and a dynamic performing arts theater. Located at 119 Park Ave W, Denver, CO 80205, United States, CPRD offers a unique and enriching experience for both aspiring dancers and audiences alike.

Location and Facilities: The company’s address provides access to a fully equipped facility designed to foster artistic growth. It boasts a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors. A wheelchair-accessible entrance further demonstrates a commitment to accessibility and welcomes individuals with diverse needs. The theater itself is well-suited for a variety of performances, offering a comfortable and engaging environment for audiences, particularly families – it’s widely regarded as good for kids.

History and Mission: Cleo Parker Robinson, a graduate of the Katherine Dunham School of Dance, brought with her a deep understanding of African dance techniques and a passion for sharing this rich cultural heritage. Initially focused on teaching and performance, CPRD quickly gained recognition for its authentic and powerful interpretations of traditional dances, alongside original works that blended diverse influences. The organization’s mission is to educate, inspire, and preserve the art of African and Afro-American dance, fostering cultural understanding and celebrating the dynamism of the human spirit. Throughout its history, CPRD has been instrumental in nurturing countless young dancers, many of whom have gone on to achieve success in professional dance companies and careers.

Performance Style and Repertoire: CPRD’s performances are characterized by their technical brilliance, emotional depth, and vibrant storytelling. The company’s repertoire encompasses a broad range of styles, including traditional African dances, jazz, modern, and contemporary works. They frequently feature music from various African cultures, creating immersive and captivating experiences. Their dedication to maintaining authentic techniques, while simultaneously exploring innovative choreography, has garnered them critical acclaim and a loyal following. The company consistently strives to deliver high-quality performances that resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Educational Programs: Beyond its professional performances, CPRD is deeply committed to providing educational opportunities to the community. The dance school offers classes for students of all ages and levels, from beginner to advanced. These classes cover a wide range of styles, including ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and African dance. CPRD's instructors are highly skilled and experienced, dedicated to fostering a supportive and encouraging learning environment. The school also offers workshops, master classes, and summer programs, providing opportunities for students to expand their knowledge and skills.

Contact Information: Individuals interested in learning more about CPRD can easily connect through the following channels: Phone: 3032951759. The company’s website, cleoparkerdance.org, provides comprehensive information about upcoming performances, classes, and educational programs. The organization also maintains an active presence on social media, sharing updates and engaging with its community.

Community Engagement: CPRD actively engages with the Denver community through outreach programs, partnerships with local schools and organizations, and participation in cultural events. They are dedicated to making dance accessible to all and fostering a greater appreciation for the arts. The company’s commitment to community involvement reflects its values of inclusivity, cultural exchange, and social responsibility.

Positive Feedback: Customer reviews consistently highlight the exceptional quality of CPRD’s performances and the dedication of its staff. The average opinion is 4.5/5, reflecting a widespread appreciation for the company’s artistic vision and commitment to excellence. Attendees often praise the energy and passion of the dancers, the beauty of the choreography, and the overall immersive experience. The positive feedback demonstrates CPRD's success in creating a truly special and memorable experience for its audiences. Many patrons express a desire for the company to continue its legacy and remain a vital part of Denver’s cultural landscape.

👍 Reviews of Cleo Parker Robinson Dance

WrldTraveler18

5/5

Recently attended their Dance 💃 Fest + it was INCREDIBLE!! Located in Benedict Paek this was my first adventure w/Cleo, as I’ve heard nothing but amazing things!! What wonderful performer + Cleo is an incredible speaker…

Orie

5/5

It's so sad to see it go... forever I love, respect and appreciate that space. The dance, the art the celebration of love. May every art head remember that oasis, and keep thriving! Allllllllll the love to everyone 🥰😍😘🤩

Jessica C.

5/5

We recently attended our first performance at Cleo Parker Robinson Dance for the final matinee of "Granny Dances To A Holiday Drum." The performance was outstanding! There is something in this show for everyone -- the multicultural representation of different faiths and winter celebrations is a much appreciated addition to our city's list of holiday events and entertainment, and one we hope to make an annual tradition for our family for years to come. It was refreshing to see a range of ages, ethnicities, body types, and styles of dance represented on stage. Bravo!

Perhaps even more noteworthy than the amazing performance itself, was the ethic of care, inclusivity, and accommodations made by the staff to ensure that ALL patrons can attend and enjoy the performance. The reserved seating of the first few rows for the elderly and people with disabilities is much appreciated. A member of our party is visually impaired and she was able to have a front row, up close viewing of the show and we were all able to sit together. I also left a bag of unique and special merchandise behind that was kindly turned into the staff. I was contacted less than 24 hours after the performance and was able to retrieve it during business hours.

It is obvious that everyone connected to Cleo -- from the ushers, to the vendors in the lobby, to the performers on stage -- shares a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. This Five Points neighborhood gem is a beacon of hope, joy, and light. We can't wait to return for another performance in 2024!

Stephen M.

5/5

An absolutely incredible place. We take our kids to a variety of classes here throughout the year. If you have kids under the age of ~10 I can’t possibly put into words how much I recommend West African Drums with Mr. Koffi. Every now and then your kids are fortunate enough to have those teachers that they will remember for the rest of their lives and Mr. Koffi is one of those humans and teachers.

Ruth O.

4/5

The Sadie Belly Dancing show we went to was excellent but it was sweltering hot in there and was a humid day to boot. Thus the 4 stars. A few large, we'll placed fans to move the air would have made a huge difference for all including the amazing performer's.

Erin T.

5/5

Max was subbing for Victoria in Creative today. He was absolutely patient and delivered kid friendly and accessible dance information. Thank you so much for our class today! I hope we’ll get to take class with you again!

Danielle

5/5

My daughter has taken the 3-4 yo creative dancing class, and I was really impressed with the teachers — they’re super fun and patient. And she had a great time, even though she was nervous about it beforehand.

Deborah V.

1/5

Never been here but sympathize with Chris Hinds. Boycott this and other places that are not wheelchair accessible. I broke my leg in 5 places and my strurnum in a car accident in 2014. Was wheelchair bound in Denver for 10 weeks.
Was amazed at how unacessible this city is to people with disabilities. My ordeal only lasted for 10 weeks for others this is a lifetime.

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