Established in 1997, Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre (GHDT) was founded by Gregory Hancock in Carmel. Originally from Kansas, Hancock moved to the area with family as a young man. GHDT was born from his love of the arts and theater. A personal love of musical performances transitioned to theater, and on to professional work in visual arts. The GHDT team is now celebrating its 26th season.
As a resident company at the Tarkington at The Center for Performing Arts, the company has been heavily involved in the development of the arts in the local community. Hancock says GHDT was able to participate in the planning process of The Center, and is grateful that the company has since been the resident professional dance company with the Tarkington.
Each season, GHDT performs three to four performances at The Center, with the final performance for the 2023-2024 season being “SAGAS AND SUPERSTITIONS” on June 7 and 8. The company now hosts an additional performance space, The Florence Theatre. Named after Hancock’s mother, this theater is a smaller, more intimate setting within the academy of GHDT.
GHDT recently wrapped up “The Wild West” three-week performance at The Florence Theatre. The smaller environment presents a unique experience for the audience as the performers are able to engage directly with the guests. Additional performances at The Florence will be hosted periodically through the coming months.
GHDT will present “FABLES AND FOLKLORE” at The Tarkington April 5 and 6. “FABLES AND FOLKLORE” will feature the world premiere of “GOLEM.” Inspired by Jewish folklore surrounding the golem of Prague, this original work by Hancock tells the story of a mud creature crafted by a rabbi to defend the Jewish ghetto of Prague from persecution. GHDT brings elements of this story into our current world, where once again, the world needs golem-like protection from sometimes-invisible enemies. A timely tale, “GOLEM” utilizes a solar eclipse as a metaphor where light is overshadowed by darkness, but then reappears as a sign of hope and survival. Featuring both melancholy and joyful klezmer music, “GOLEM” utilizes layers of musical and theatrical nuance to tell a tale from the past, yet direct a voice to the present. The production is presented in partnership with the Jewish Community Center of Indianapolis.
Also on the program is the long-awaited return of GHDT’s production of “PINOCCHIO,” a theatrical masterpiece created by Hancock and inspired by the classic Italian tale. Featuring a cast of colorful characters in a steampunk setting with theatrical choreography, this version weaves a cautionary tale of love and sacrifice into the visual storytelling. Joined by characters Geppetto, the Cricket and the Blue Fairy, PINOCCHIO, a puppet who magically becomes a real boy, sets out on his own to discover the world and experiences consequential adventure.
The Academy of GHDT – the training facility for youth dancers – opened in 2010 as an affiliation of GHDT nonprofit organization. A variety of dance genres are taught at The Academy of GHDT by the talented company dancers. Youth classes are taught in the evenings throughout the week. Several youth dancers have graduated out of the program at The Academy and moved into a professional role within the GHDT company. Many dancers within the company go on to competition. However, the main focus of GHDT is to build a solid foundation of technique and skill for those students looking to move into a professional performance career.
Collaboration is a goal both within GHDT as well as with other performing arts organizations in the area. One such experience is that of a performance created and directed by Hancock and performed with the Carmel Symphony, “La Casa Azul.”
Upon the passing of Christel DeHaan, a local businesswoman and philanthropist, GHDT was awarded a legacy gift from the Christel DeHaan foundation to continue its work in the community. Because of this exceptional gift, Hancock says the organization is strengthened, enriched and inspired. Humbled by the generous gift, the company seeks to continue the legacy of philanthropy into future generations.
To find details on upcoming performances and to purchase tickets, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org, thecenterpresents.org, or The Center’s box office at 317-843-3800.
