ABOUT DDP

We promote gender equity in the dance industry, including but not limited to ballet companies, by providing a metrics based analysis.

Through our research, programming, resources, and advocacy, DDP showcases and uplifts women throughout the dance industry.  We focus on leaders, both artistic & administrative, and artists of merit: choreographers, photographers, lighting, costume, set designers, and commissioned composers.

HISTORY OF THE PROJECT

DDP began as an independent project researching the lack of new female choreographic works. We also examine gender imbalance in artistic and administrative leadership in dance companies, venues, and organizations. Our research has focused on examining productions by companies generally rooted in or greatly influenced by the European classical form. With over 2,300 records of choreographic works in the database and counting, the Project is currently expanding to house records of ballet festival repertoires and leadership, choreographic fellowships, ballet competitions, summer intensives, musical compositions that accompany dance works, production staff, boards of directors, and initiatives by companies to promote an equitable environment.

With this expansion, we seek not only to continue informing diversity but also to ensure the fiscal and operational transparency of ballet companies.

The “ballet world” has only recently begun to discuss gender inequality in leadership. We use our data to enrich conversations that create change. Through our original research and information derived from the Listening Tour, we highlight companies and initiatives that are making concrete gains in promoting female choreographers and women in leadership positions. Through sharing the results of our data analysis and acquired insight from the Listening Tour, DDP designs programming specifically tailored to the needs of up-and-coming female talent in ballet.

Founded and established by Elizabeth Yntema in 2015 as a simple database, DDP has operated as an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit since April 2019. By issuing data reports, advocacy, and programming, DDP raises awareness related to gender equality, primarily in areas of leadership and choreographic opportunities.

Dance Data Project® solicits and accepts donations that are consistent with its mission. Donations will generally be accepted from individuals, partnerships, foundations, government agencies, or other entities, without limitations. In the course of its regular fundraising activities, Dance Data Project® will accept donations of money as well as in-kind services such as research help.