MISSION.
VISION.
HISTORY.
MISSION
Nickerson-Rossi Dance is dedicated to advancing the art of contemporary dance
through professional performance, education, therapeutic programs, and community engagement.
Rooted in artistic excellence, Nickerson-Rossi Dance creates transformative dance
experiences, from unconventional spaces, the stage, and the classroom, empowering
individuals to connect, express, and grow through bold choreography, civic
engagement, and accessible programming. The company inspires people of all
backgrounds to experience, share, and shape the evolving landscape of dance.
VISION 2025 - 2030
Nickerson-Rossi Dance envisions a world where dance is a powerful force for
connection, expression, and transformation. We aim to expand the reach of our
professional performances to global stages, captivating audiences through emotionally
resonant and artistically exceptional works.
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Through comprehensive education programs, we will continue to empower young
people with equitable access to high-quality dance training, mentorship, and opportunity
through the arts. By commissioning new works from emerging and established artists
through the International Dance Festival, we will foster a dynamic platform for
innovation, representation, and creative risk-taking in contemporary dance.
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As we grow, we foresee the expansion of our dedicated dance theater—an anchor for
community, creativity, and performance—allowing Nickerson-Rossi Dance to deepen its
impact and engage larger audiences with immersive and inclusive programming that
reflects the evolving landscape of dance.
HISTORY​
2012-13
NRD debuted at the Palm Springs Annenberg Theater, marking the company’s first major performance venue.
Commissioned by the Palm Springs Art Museum Arts Council, leading to an early breakthrough performance.
2014-15
Embarked on its first East Coast tour, including performances in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and New York.
Named a Top Pick at the LA Dance Festival by PerformingArtsLive.
2016
Officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Launched the first Palm Springs Dance Festival, serving as Creative Director of Dance at the Annenberg Theater.
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Performed in the Fluid Art Series at Palm Springs Art Museum
2018-19
Established a modern dance curriculum at Princeton Ballet School, bridging classical and contemporary training.
2020
Launched Palm Springs Dance Academy, the official training school of NRD.
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Partnered with the Riverside County Office of Education.
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Expanded the Dance Festival into the Palm Springs International Dance Festival, presenting in Philadelphia, PA.
2021
Opened
Nickerson‑Rossi’s Dance House, the only dedicated dance venue in Coachella Valley.
2022
Promoted the 10-year anniversary of the company through expanded festival, educational, wellness, and repertory programming.
2023
Unveiled a third studio facility off El Paseo in Palm Desert, increasing access for Coachella East Valley youth and program expansion.
2024
Nickerson-Rossi Dance awards officially over $750,000 in various scholarships for college, summer training, and Academy programming.
