Building a sustainable future for the arts
Our history and mission
Founded by choreographer and climate policy expert Diana Movius, Moveius Contemporary Ballet began as a small ensemble dedicated to exploring how ballet can speak to contemporary stories and urgent social issues. In 2015, that vision took root with the opening of Dance Loft on 14—a restored 1920s art-deco movie theater transformed into a vibrant arts hub in D.C.’s Ward 4. What started as a single rehearsal home has evolved into a community where artistry, access, and impact move in harmony.
Now celebrating its 10th Anniversary, Dance Loft + Moveius Ballet together represent a thriving arts ecosystem where the performing arts are a vital force for dialogue, belonging, and joy—where artists flourish, arts spaces cultivate vibrancy and sustainability, and thought-provoking programming engages with the political, social, and environmental issues that shape our shared world. The organization continues to grow—expanding its reach through education partnerships, artist residencies, and sustainable initiatives that strengthen and sustain D.C.’s creative future.
OUR MISSION
Dance Loft on 14 and Moveius Contemporary Ballet work collectively to expand arts access and create socially relevant and thought-provoking works.
Through Dance Loft, we provide affordable rehearsal and performance space, artist residencies, bilingual outreach, and inclusive dance education for youth and adults—sustaining and growing D.C.’s artistic ecosystem.
Through Moveius Ballet, our resident professional company, we push the boundaries of ballet—creating message-driven works that blend classical technique with contemporary depth, engage with climate and social issues, and showcase world-class dancers in D.C. and beyond, while extending our impact through school residencies and student field trip performances that connect young learners directly with the art of dance.
Together, we foster a welcoming, vibrant hub where artists, audiences, and students come together to experience dance as a catalyst for both personal expression and public dialogue.
Our Shared Values
Access — We believe dance and the performing arts should be accessible to all—regardless of age, background, or income.
Artistic Excellence — We foster and present work of the highest artistic caliber, while remaining welcoming and inclusive.
Community — We create space for people to connect through creativity and shared experience—a true home for DC’s performing arts community.
Dialogue & Impact — We believe that performing arts can and should contribute to dialogue about the most pressing issues of our time—sparking reflection, empathy, and action.
Education — We nurture the next generation of dancers and arts lovers through high-quality dance education programs, including community outreach and field trips that bring public school students to experience Moveius Ballet performances firsthand.
Artist-Centered — We champion local artists and provide the space, resources, and support they need to thrive.
Joy & Wellbeing — We celebrate the joy, vitality, and wellness that creative movement brings to individuals and communities.
NOn - DISCRIMINATION POLICY
Dance Loft on 14 is committed to recruiting and employing individuals without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, gender identity, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, pregnancy, familial status, ability, veteran status, sexual orientation, size, status with regard to public assistance, or genetic information.