About Ascend

ASCEND is a mixed-repertory dance concert featuring original and restaged works by local choreographers Katie Cook, Caroline Crutcher, Elizabeth Harris-Timm, Allie Larson,  Amanda Moder, Laura Watkins and the REACH students from Bliss Dance Space. Joining the choreographers and cast of 40 local dancers is 2022 Minnesota State Arts Board grant recipient, composer and creative artist Kevin Dobbe, and soprano Carla Thelen Hanson.

Rochester Ensemble of Dance

Our mission is to foster the artistic development of our community members by engaging them in meaningful dance performances that celebrate the arts and culture throughout Southeast Minnesota.

We fulfill our mission by creating classical and contemporary dance productions that challenge local dancers both as performers and choreographers while also providing outreach and educational opportunities to youth organizations in SE MN.  Additionally, we benefit the community at large by providing accessible, affordable, family-friendly performances.