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About Us
Our Mission & Purpose
Changing lives...one dance at a time
Owensboro Dance Theatre (ODT) enriches lives and strengthens community well-being through the transformative power of dance.
As a nonprofit organization, ODT is committed to providing exceptional performance experiences, innovative educational programming, and inclusive access to the arts. From beloved productions like The German American Bank Nutcracker to dynamic collaborations such as Ignite featuring Giordano Dance Chicago, ODT brings world-class artistry to the region while nurturing local talent. Through outreach initiatives including Dance to Learn, Moving Minds, Experience the Show, and Dance for Health, ODT integrates dance into classrooms, healthcare, and community spaces—promoting creativity, education, and physical and emotional wellness for individuals of all ages and abilities. Guided by a belief that dance is for everyone, ODT continues to serve as a catalyst for artistic excellence, education, and connection across Western Kentucky and beyond.
Our History
The dream of Joy Johnson, Karen Carothers, and dedicated dance patrons in the community became a reality in 1982 with the founding of Owensboro Dance Theatre, Inc. (ODT). Karen and Joy envisioned a company that would provide high-quality performances for a diverse and growing audience while offering dance education and outreach programs to enrich community life and strengthen the cultural environment of the region.
Now in its 44th season, ODT proudly stands as the only non-profit, pre-professional dance company in Western Kentucky, recognized for its passion for sharing the joy and benefits of dance with individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
ODT trains young dancers in a variety of disciplines and offers clinics and workshops open to aspiring dancers throughout Western Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Each season, the company presents three major productions—The German American Bank Nutcracker, In Concert, and more—featuring ODT company members, local dancers, and guest artists from nationally recognized professional dance companies.
After serving as Co-Artistic Director for many years, Karen Carothers retired in 2009 but continues to teach at ODT’s home school, Johnson’s Dance Studio. Throughout its more than four decades, ODT has reached over 800,000 individuals and proudly graduated more than 250 alumni, many of whom have gone on to share their love of dance as teachers, studio owners, and professional artists.
Natalie Lopez, an ODT alumna, now serves as Assistant Artistic Director (since 2021), while fellow alumna Jennie Boggess has led ODT’s development efforts since 2014. Bonnie Marks, former Executive Board President and long-time volunteer, became Executive Director in 2021. In 2024, ODT welcomed back Jaysie Beth Royal as Strategic Operations Director, further strengthening the organization’s capacity to serve the community through innovative programming, partnerships, and strategic growth.
For 44 years, Owensboro Dance Theatre has continued its long-standing legacy of artistic excellence, education, and community engagement—keeping Owensboro the heart of the arts in Western Kentucky.
Now in its 44th season, ODT proudly stands as the only non-profit, pre-professional dance company in Western Kentucky, recognized for its passion for sharing the joy and benefits of dance with individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
ODT trains young dancers in a variety of disciplines and offers clinics and workshops open to aspiring dancers throughout Western Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Each season, the company presents three major productions—The German American Bank Nutcracker, In Concert, and more—featuring ODT company members, local dancers, and guest artists from nationally recognized professional dance companies.
After serving as Co-Artistic Director for many years, Karen Carothers retired in 2009 but continues to teach at ODT’s home school, Johnson’s Dance Studio. Throughout its more than four decades, ODT has reached over 800,000 individuals and proudly graduated more than 250 alumni, many of whom have gone on to share their love of dance as teachers, studio owners, and professional artists.
Natalie Lopez, an ODT alumna, now serves as Assistant Artistic Director (since 2021), while fellow alumna Jennie Boggess has led ODT’s development efforts since 2014. Bonnie Marks, former Executive Board President and long-time volunteer, became Executive Director in 2021. In 2024, ODT welcomed back Jaysie Beth Royal as Strategic Operations Director, further strengthening the organization’s capacity to serve the community through innovative programming, partnerships, and strategic growth.
For 44 years, Owensboro Dance Theatre has continued its long-standing legacy of artistic excellence, education, and community engagement—keeping Owensboro the heart of the arts in Western Kentucky.