Biography
- Founded in 1991 by Ellen Sinopoli, a prominent figure in contemporary dance with a career spanning four decades of performance, choreography, and pedagogy.
- Resident company at The Egg (Albany) since 1992, meaning frequent performances and collaborations within a major regional arts hub.
- Current artistic leadership continues to push accessible, community-centered dance through site-specific works and touring in non-traditional venues.
- Awards and honors include WTEN Educator of Excellence (2002), Albany/Schenectady Arts Awards (2000), and 100 Women of Excellence (2000). In 2024, Ellen Sinopoli received the Brightheart Fellowship from the Paideia Institute; in 2025 she was named an NYS choreographer initiative artist.
Discography Highlights
- Choreography in collaboration projects and multimedia pieces that pair dance with live music and visual art—ongoing explorations with film and sculpture in development for 2026 screenings as part of The Wells Project/Slipping into One.
- Notable collaborations include a 2025 partnership with Musicians of Ma’alwyck for the piece Celebrated Emblems, performed in Albany and Schenectady.
- Seasonal repertoire emphasizes community-accessible works and rotating programs across a variety of spaces, emphasizing performative immediacy and audience engagement.
Upcoming Tour & 2025–2026 Season
- The 35th anniversary season (2025–2026) features 35 free performances across the Capital Region in libraries, parks, galleries, farmers markets, and beyond, with a kickoff in early 2025–26 at venues like Universal Preservation Hall (Saratoga) and The Arts Center of the Capital Region.
- Each date presents a rotating program designed to be location-responsive, ensuring fresh experiences with each stop.
- Season runs September 2025–June 2026. Expect a calendar of performances that highlight community spaces and accessible programming for diverse audiences.
Social Media & Contact
Venue Context
- Residency and performances often occur at The Egg (Albany), a central venue for contemporary dance and performing arts in upstate New York, known for its distinctive space and broad audience reach.
- Partner venues in the 2025–2026 season include Universal Preservation Hall (Saratoga), The Arts Center of the Capital Region, libraries, parks, galleries, and community spaces—emphasizing accessibility and site-specific presentation.
Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time attendee, ESDC offers an approachable way to experience bold contemporary dance with a local flavor. Secure your seats for engagements in intimate libraries and open-air venues alike, and join the Capital Region’s most dynamic dance program in a year of movement, collaboration, and community.