Lula Washington Dance Company Returns to the Historic Masonic Theatre Next Week

The Alleghany Highlands Arts Council announced today that the Lula Washington Dance Theatre (LWDT) will return next week to continue its impactful residency within the Arts Council’s Lighthouse Project. The visit will culminate in a public performance on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Historic Masonic Theatre as part of the Performing Arts Series.

 

One of Los Angeles’s longest-running touring dance companies, LWDT first visited the region in May to conduct workshops centered on two of Lula Washington’s signature works, “Search for Humanism” and “Open Your Eyes.” During those initial visits, the company engaged residents at Alleghany High School, the Sharon Senior Center, Boys Home, and the YMCA.

 

Participants of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds shared personal stories and explored themes of transformation, healing, resistance, empathy, and compassion, addressing the central question: “What is the future of humanity if we can’t find common ground?”

 

Following those civil discourse exercises, the LWDT creative team returned to their Los Angeles studio to translate the notes, experiences, and voices of Alleghany Highlands residents into a brand-new contemporary dance piece. The resulting work will premiere during Tuesday’s public performance and will feature several local community members appearing on stage alongside the professional company.

 

The evening promises dynamic storytelling through contemporary and modern dance. In addition to the locally inspired premiere, the repertoire will highlight works by Co-Founder and Artistic Director Lula Washington, American classics by Donald McKayle and Martha Graham, and choreography by Associate Director Tamica Washington-Miller.

 

Prior to Tuesday, the company will also conduct a series of outreach activities with various community sectors across the area. Local dance students have been offered free admission that can be accessed through their respective dance studios.

 

Activities for this project are funded by a grant from the Alleghany Foundation, with additional general operating support provided by the Virginia Commission for the Arts.

 

Tickets for the performance are $20. To purchase tickets or to find more information, visit Arts4AllAlleghanyHighlands.com or call the Arts Council at 540-962-2787.