Within Ohio’s cadre of performing arts centers, there is a strong and passionate dance community. Don’t miss out on a chance to see some amazing displays of both classic and modern dance, even if you yourself are saddled with two left feet. You may find yourself hesitant to check out a dance performance if you’ve never attended one before. If so, let us assure you that a high-quality dance recital can be a moving and unparalleled experience. Dance can be enjoyed by both men and women with a variety of interests and backgrounds. We’ve assembled an introductory guide to some of the big names in the state’s dancing community. There is plenty more to discover on your own, but we’ll leave that up to you.DANCECleveland is a perfect starting point for experiencing the many faces of modern dance. The company was founded by students who trained under dancer Gertrude Schurr in April 1955. In 1956, ten of these women formed the Cleveland Modern Dance Association. It’s one of the few organizations which brings the all-male Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo troupe, the modern dance of Pascal Rioult, and the narrative thread of Parsons Dance and East Village Opera Company to audiences.Pointe of Departure is a Cleveland-based collaboration between ballet dancers Karen Gabay and Raymond Rodriguez, formed in 2001 after a string of sold-out performances with violinist Lev Polyakin. Their work combines theatre, ballet, and music. Pointe of Departure has performed at venues including the Ohio Theater, the Evans Amphitheater, the Bolton theatre at the Cleveland Play House, and the Cleveland Museum of Art.Cleveland isn’t the only place to pursue a love of danceand there’s nothing to say you have to simply watch, either. Those interested in taking to the floor themselves should check out the Center Stage Dance Studio, with locations in both Northfield and Akron. The Northfield location was opened in 1988, and the Center Stage Competition Company attends at least four regional competitions and one national event per year. The company was a 2009 National Champion.Ohio has a statewide dance organization called OhioDance. Each year, the organization holds a festival, with 2011′s set to take place in Columbus, Ohio from April 29-May 1. The festival will feature an audition for professional dance companies, along with classes by dance professionals, panel discussions current trends, and an awards presentation.