Lula Washington Dance Theatre (LWDT)

Los Angeles-based company Lula Washington Dance Theatre celebrates the legacy of Dr.  Martin Luther King, Jr. by offering a dance program in advance of the MLK holiday weekend.

Founded in 1979 in inner-city Los Angeles by Lula Washington and her husband, Erwin Washington, this vibrant troupe is known for powerful, high energy performances, unique choreography, and works that are rooted in African-American culture and history. 

Lula Washington Dance Theatre (LWDT) celebrates its 45th Anniversary in 2025. During its first three decades LWDT danced across the globe, from the United States to Russia, China, Brazil, Kosovo, Germany, and other countries. In addition to performing, the company has a passionate commitment to education and community outreach both at home and on tour. LWDT operates its own dance school and studio in South Los Angeles, where 100 inner city youth study dance all year long. The students perform in LWDT’s Youth Dance Ensemble and in an annual Youth Dance Recital in June; a Summer showcase in August; a Dance All Day Festival in October; and an annual Kwanzaa Festival in December. Many LWDT Company dancers received their start in dance at the LWDT school.