ARGA NOVA DANCE is the official name of the organization known as Beckles Dancing Company. The acronym ARGA is explained below. The company, whose major focus is the development of artists and repertory, also includes two other important undertakings: The Barefoot Brigade, a coalition of Modern Dance professionals and enthusiasts, promotes the vitality and viability of Modern Dance; and the South Dallas Dance Festival aims to promote pride, sharing and nurturing of the artform in the area. A preliminary search is underway for a facility to develop a school to support the training of bodies and minds, for NDC and others.

The André R. George Association was founded in 1997 to support and promote dance and related Arts and Issues. It presents dance companies, festivals, lectures, etc. that build community and understanding. ARGA is dedicated to the memory of André R. George, the gifted dancer, teacher and choreographer and founder of Nova Dancing Company. We support local dancers, choreographers, composers and other artists with performance collaborations, open discussion forums, class offerings and by building a network of administrative and artistic support for the entire community of Dallas performing artists. In 2000, we were approved as ARGA NOVA DANCE, a 501 (C) 3 not-for-profit organization.

Shinea C. Wright, President
Loris Anthony Beckles
Deborah A. Espie
Solomon Espie
Louis W. Henry
M. Mercedes Jaramillo-Mc Curley
Kamyar P. Kadivar
Michael Mc Curley
Lou Propst
Mary Lois Sweatt

ADVISORY BOARD
Vicki Meek
Karen Bower Robinson
Amanda Stone

ADMINISTRATOR
Tina Mullone-Carter

The James L. Halperin Foundation
South Dallas Cultural Center, City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs
Texas Commission on the Arts
Individuals in the Star System

ARGA NOVA DANCE also produces the annual South Dallas Dance Festival and edits the Black Dance Review. Please click on the links below for more information.

Photos by: 5 Angle Images / Stan R. Davis