Melding his urban athleticism with her Latin sensuality, and their combined choreographic and musical sensibilities, Ted Thomas and Frances Ortiz founded Thomas/Ortiz Dance in 2001, introducing a fresh and emotionally engaging new vision to contemporary dance. The company of twelve dancers from culturally diverse backgrounds performs a repertoire which explores a multitude of thought-provoking and socially-relevant themes. For Love or Grace delves into issues surrounding sexuality and religion. Winter Sky exposes the effect of alcoholism on a relationship. Reflections depicts a young woman’s search for self-identity and self-approval. Reviewing a Thomas/Ortiz Dance showcase at the Merce Cunningham Studios in 2004, Christina Giraldi of Show Business weekly wrote: “Ethereal and rejoicing, intriguing, lighthearted, sexually charged, political, thoughtful – these are adjective that only attempt to describe the eclectic collection of pieces performed… Thomas/Ortiz is a young company which displays much talent and promise.”

Thomas/Ortiz Dance made its debut at The Bronx Academy of Art and Dance in 2001. The company has since performed at Joyce SoHo, the Puffin Room, Clune Center for the Arts (CT), DeBaun Center for the Performing Arts (NJ), as well as performances at Bridge for Dance, Dance Space Raw Materials, DanceNow Festival, “The Remember Project” for Dancers Responding to AIDS at St. Marks Church, and Dance for Life in Bryant Park – all in New York. Their last presentation at the Merce Cunningham Studios was singled out as a “critic’s pick” in Show Business Weekly.