Our Mission

The Mission of Thomas/Ortiz Dance and the Ted Thomas Dance Foundation for the Public Inc. is to spread the art of dance across the country and around the world. The basic audiences of the Foundation’s activities range from socio-economically disadvantaged children in New York City to the communities of Southern Fairfield County, CT, where the Foundation is affiliated with the New England Dance Theatre.

Thomas/Ortiz Dance

presents the choreographic works of Ted Thomas and Frances Ortiz, with a focus on developing a musical, athletic and sensual approach to dance. Melding his urban athleticism with her Latin sensuality, to husband and wife team 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. Mr. Thomas and Ms. Ortiz try to inspire younger generations to participate in dance as an outlet for creative expression, and as a way of developing a healthy life style through the arts. Thomas/Ortiz conducts a wide variety of community-based outreach programs and activities, including classes, lecture demonstrations and workshops.

The Ted Thomas Dance Foundation

is the 501©3 non-for-profit organization whose mission is to facilitate the Thomas/Ortiz dance company to spread the art of dance across the country and around the world. The basic audiences of the Foundation’s activities range from socio-economically disadvantaged communities throughout the New England States, New York, New Jersey and abroad to all lovers of dance worldwide.