Regional Dance America

Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre is a member of Regional Dance America and has been awarded the most prestigious status of "Honor Company" since it joined in 1990.

Regional Dance America (RDA) was founded in 1988 to promote the artistic development of dance companies throughout the United States, continuing the important work that was started in 1956 by the National Association of Regional Ballet (NARB). The NARB contributed to the decentralization of dance and, under its auspices, regional companies grew in stature and quality nationwide. The five regional organizations of RDA (the Mid-States, the Northeast, the Pacific, the Southeast, and the Southwest) were established under the guidance of the NARB. Over 200 companies, including more than 2 dozen nationally recognized professional groups, have been NARB or RDA member companies. The main objectives of RDA are to promote its mission on a national level, to define and maintain the artistic standards of quality to which the regional organizations are held, and to provide uniformity of major policies amongst five regions.

Every year in each of the regions, member companies share four days of classes, lectures, seminars and social events. Evening performances are held showcasing the member companies, demonstrating the growth they have achieved throughout the year. Since 1990, RDA has been honored to sponsor an exhibition performance at the USA International Ballet Competition held every four years in Jackson, Mississippi. RDA’s most significant project is its sponsorship of the annual Craft of Choreography Conference. Through the Conference, RDA focuses on the development of the fundamental underpinnings of the art of dance – choreographers and dancers.

RDA has and will continue to be an organization dedicated to promoting the artistic development of regional dance companies throughout the United States.