Billy Blanken founded Sheep Meadow Dance Theatre (SMDT) in 2016 as a medium for exploring movement through a socially-engaged dance practice with a focus on classical ballet. The project provides collaborative works incorporating high-quality production value, including projection and project mapping, practical effects, world class costumes, digitally animated painting, and collaborations with musicians, designers, composers and visual artists. With exposure to a wide range of movement in his career, Mr. Blanken creates choreography that is theatrical, polished, and classically informed with a contemporary aesthetic. HIs mission is to provide accessible high quality dance performance for all, regardless of socio-economic background.
SMDT is named after the 15-acre park in the center of Manhattan's Central Park. This area is a cardinal point of calm and gathering for generations of New Yorkers. Mr Blanken found inspiration in its history: shepherds tending the land, concerts, celebrations, acts of patriotism and protest. SMDT creates space for collaboration, dialogue, and reflection. Blanken’s commitment to representation is evident in his approach, amplifying audiences and artists who identify as LGBTQIA+. He champions dance as a fundamental human right, amplifying its accessibility and significance for all.
SMDT has been featured in Dance Magazine, Dance Informa, Dance Enthusiast, and Huffington Post. They have performed at Dixon Place, the Hudson Guild Theatre, the KnJ Theatre, Greenspace Studio, Triskelion Arts, Dumbo Dance Festival, the Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre and others. In 2022, the company created 'Tchaikovsky and More' at the Irondale Center for Candlelight Concerts. SMDT partnered with Lauren Woods and 10Kproductions on the film 'Body Tides' (2020). It has been featured at film festivals and galleries in Connecticut, Alabama, Korea, and New York. SMDT has produced four full evening length Seasons. In 2023, they received support from NYFA for the creation of SEASON IV at Culture Lab LIC
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