
Ruth Mitchell Dance Theatre is comprised of professional and pre-professional dancers who perform to rave reviews throughout the Southeast. Producing three performances each year, RMDT provides the community with thrilling dance entertainment showcasing multiple genres.
RMDT dancers train under the guidance of exceptionally qualified teachers at Georgia Dance Conservatory (GDC) located on the Historic Marietta Square. Additionally, our dancers benefit from training with award-winning choreographers, professional performers, and seasoned technical and creative staff from across the nation. Master classes in all forms of dance are offered throughout the year.
One of the most valuable aspects of training at RMDT is the opportunity for many students to gain stage experience at a young age. Performing before a live audience teaches stage decorum, instills confidence, and eases the transition from student to professional.
RMDT Artistic Director, Lisa A. Toups is an award-winning choreographer and instructor with over 30 years of experience. Ms. Toups was recognized at the International Dance Festival in Los Angeles for her unique style of choreography. She is a former faculty member of the Governor’s Honor Program and Pebblebrook High School’s Program for Excellence in Performing Arts in Cobb County. Ms. Toups is also the director of the Georgia Dance Conservatory (GDC).
RMDT exposes children to professional quality dance by partnering with the Marietta After-School Program, The Arts Academy at Hickory Hills Elementary in Marietta, and the Woodruff Arts Center’s Young Audiences in educational systems throughout Georgia.
RMDT is a Regional Honor Company in the Southeastern Regional Ballet Association (SERBA). SERBA is one of five divisions of Regional Dance America (RDA), a national association of ballet companies founded in 1988 to promote the artistic development of dance companies throughout the United States and maintain artistic standards of quality. The organization offers instruction, scholarships, awards, and performance opportunities.
SERBA member companies meet annually for four days of classes, lectures, seminars, and social events. Evening performances showcase member companies and demonstrate the growth they have achieved throughout the year. RMDT adjudicates several pieces for performance at the annual SERBA festival held each spring. RMDT has been a member of the SERBA since 1989.
For dancers seeking a professional career, Ruth Mitchell Dance Theatre, in conjunction with Georgia Dance Conservatory, provides the training and performance opportunities required for excellence ~ on and off the stage.

