By Walter Rutledge
Thera Ward has had a varied performance career based on her ability to broaden her artistic horizons. At 13 she made her debut as one of Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) founder Arthur Mitchells’ Baby Ballerinas. By 17 she was touring the world performing principal roles with DTH and helping to crack ballet’s color glass ceiling.
After her 11-year association with DTH Ward expanded her artistry into musical theater. Developing both her vocal and acting skills she made her broadway debut in the Tony and Grammy Award winning musical Black and Blue. and appeared in the Paris production of CATS,
Dancers, like all athletes, reach a point where physical prowess has surpassed its zenith and career changes becomes inevitable. Some choreograph, others teach and a few gifted artists find a way remain theatrically relevant. Through her association with Jamel Gaines and his company Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet Ward has found a welcoming and nurturing environment to share her professional talents with audiences and the next generation of performers.
Her upcoming performance in Remembering, Gaines annual Black History multimedia manifesto, will wow audiences. Ward’s statuesque presence and stage command make her an imposing and powerful interpreter of Gaines theatrical truth.
Thera Ward – A Dancer For All Seasons
O&A NYC Editor-in-Chief Walter Rutledge discussed Ward’s illustrious and ever evolving career. We spoke on the eve of her 2026 performance in Remembering, which will take place on Friday February 13th 7:30pm at the BAM Fisher Fishman Space.
