Dominique Hamilton’s journey in the world of dance is a powerful testament to passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the arts. From humble beginnings in Dayton, Ohio, to performing on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, Dominique has established herself as a dancer, choreographer, and leader. Her story is one of innovation, resilience, and a deep connection to her roots, particularly in her ongoing work to uplift underserved communities.
At the heart of Dominique’s current efforts is the Harold S. Jones Fine Arts Center Ballet & Contemporary Dance Program. This initiative is more than just dance training—it’s a holistic development platform that provides young dancers from underserved Black and Brown communities with access to technical dance instruction, life skills, character-building, and professional development. The program’s mission extends beyond the dance floor, nurturing the mind, body, and soul of the next generation of artists and leaders, aiming to inspire them to make transformative changes in the arts and beyond.
Dominique’s love for dance began at Jeraldyne’s School of Dance in Dayton, where her raw talent and determination quickly set her apart. She furthered her education at Stivers School for the Arts before attending Howard University, where she not only thrived academically but also co-founded I.Am.We, the university’s first contemporary dance company. Graduating magna cum laude with a BA in Political Science/Pre-law, Dominique’s journey has been marked by trailblazing accomplishments and dedication to uplifting the arts community.
Her career has taken her to international stages, where she has collaborated with renowned artists like Mary Mary, J. Cole, Wale, Natalie Cole, Dionne Warwick, and Shirley Caesar. Her versatility and creative power have been showcased through her collaborations with global brands like Under Armour and MTV, as well as through her appearances in film, television, and major publications. A significant chapter in her career was her time as a principal dancer with Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, where her powerful performances captivated audiences around the world.
Dominique’s work as a choreographer has received widespread recognition. Her award-winning choreography has been showcased on prestigious platforms, including the Youth America Grand Prix, Universoul Circus, and the Miss Intercontinental Pageant. Her work has graced stages like the Kennedy Center and Harris Theater, and her reputation as a visionary in the performing arts has earned her teaching positions at leading universities like Georgetown, Howard, Loyola, and Southern Illinois University.
One of her most notable honors was her invitation to the “Celebration of Black Women in Dance” hosted by former First Lady Michelle Obama. This moment, along with the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities’ commission of her premiere work Hey Black Child, cemented her place as a creative leader. Her expertise was further recognized when she was appointed to the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events Advisory Committee, a role that amplifies her influence on arts policy and development.
In recent years, Dominique has transitioned into arts management, combining her knowledge of performance with business acumen. As the co-founder and CEO of Dance Connect Worldwide, a premier production house and staffing agency, Dominique has created over 80 job opportunities for artists, supported numerous creative projects, and reached over 30,000 audience members. Her leadership continues to shape the industry, providing vital resources and opportunities for artists of color.
At the core of Dominique’s success is her unwavering faith. She credits her strong belief in God and draws inspiration from her family, including her husband, Elijah Hamilton, whose roots are in Southern Illinois, and their two daughters, Genesis and Eden. Her journey from a student of dance to a global arts leader is a testament to the power of faith, family, and an unyielding dedication to artistic excellence.
Dominique Hamilton’s impact on the performing arts will continue to inspire future generations of artists. Her influence, felt in classrooms, on stages, and in communities worldwide, serves as a reminder that with faith, passion, and resilience, artists can change the world.
