A part of the community since 1963, the mission of Southern Danceworks is to advance dance as a major art form, contributing to and enriching the life, culture, and community of Alabama. As Alabama’s oldest professional modern dance company, Southern Danceworks offers a wide variety of acclaimed programs with “an overarching commitment to quality at the highest level” (The Birmingham News). Under the direction of Artistic Director Germaul Barnes, the company presents repertory concerts with works by regional and nationally renowned choreographers. As part of its outreach program, Southern Danceworks holds educational performances for schools, master classes, and teacher workshops based on the National Standards for Dance Education and state dance curricula.