About Us
Company d of Memphis, Tennessee, is a nationally recognized dance company of young adults with Down syndrome under the artistic direction of choreographer Darlene Winters. Founded in 2001, Company d is committed to inspire, empower and teach individuals with Down syndrome who have an inherent aptitude for the performing arts.
Through weekly class rehearsals and dedicated practices, the dancers have developed into a company that performs to a variety of music represented by classical ballet, jazz and modern dance. Moreover, Company d members have learned to work as a team, united in “one movement” through discipline and commitment.
Learn More About Company d“If I could tell you what I mean there would be no point in dancing.”
– Isadora Duncan
The School
Company d develops self-esteem, self-advocacy self-confidence within the community of dancers through both the discipline and creativity of dance. Students in the program experience personal, social, emotional, and cognitive growth through the process of arts education.
Although Company d falls under the umbrella of dance, there is a continued focus on developing life skills, such as committing to a project, following complex directions, responding appropriately to corrections and learning how to work and move as one. Their “one movement” has in turn created a support group for and fellowship among the parents. The dancers have become role models for younger children with special needs and increased community involvement and acceptance.
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Experience
Company d in collaboration with the International Down syndrome Coalition (IDSC) produced their first music video to “Who I Am” by Sarah Conant, composer and recording artist.
The IDSC initiated a call for an original song to be a voice for individuals with Down syndrome and to celebrate World Down Syndrome day March 21. Selected from hundreds of submissions, “Who I Am” is upbeat and conveys the essence of spirit and individuality. Company d dancers and videographer Lacey Winters created a music video that expresses a harmony between the rhythm of the choreography, the personality of the dancers, and the lyrics of the song.
Company d in the PressView Media Gallery