History of Southold

In 1973, several dancers came together because they shared an important common bond — their love of dance.

The newly formed alliance made a commitment to respect distinct dance traditions by giving each artist the freedom to pursue her chosen idiom. Founding members included Ann Dunn, the company’s first Artistic Director, who was soon joined by Bonnie Boilini Baxter and Jill Engel Tulchinsky. Their vision guided the young company throughout its early years. Performances and classes were held at Dancenter, a 100-year-old church converted to dance studios and theater space. SDT remained there until 1981 when the company moved temporarily to Center Century before relocating to its current home at the Colfax Cultural Arts Center, a cooperative arts and neighborhood complex with national historic site status.