What is Terpsicorps?

Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance is a professional contemporary ballet company that brings together exceptional artists from across the U.S. and beyond. Every summer, we converge in North Carolina to present thought-provoking and entertaining works of dance theater to the communities of Asheville and Winston-Salem.

In the Words of Our Audience

“Over the years, Terpsicorps has annually repeatedly created and performed for the community of Asheville, touching the city’s soul. What Terpsicorps has created over its 20+ years has been deep, enriching and so contributory to the city. Terpsicorps IS Asheville. The company speaks to the city’s essence and this particular performance (Appalachian Phoenix) spoke deeper to its heart.”
— Asheville Audience Member

“Thank you for a phenomenal evening here in Winston Salem! To attend a performance that was funny, and uplifting, with fantastic choreography, amazing live music and professional dancers was just what we needed!”
— Winston-Salem Audience Member

A Gift to the Heroes of Hurricane Helene

Watch Appalachian Phoenix online, honoring the courage and resilience of our community. This video from our 2025 Season is a tribute to the individuals and communities who inspired the work. Thank you for your courage, generosity, and resilience.

ANNOUNCING Season 2026

Designed to bring our audiences contemplation, inspiration and joy

Winston-Salem: 7:30PM, July 16–18, 2026 at The Hanesbrands Theatre

TICKETS ON SALE SOON!

Asheville: 7:30PM, July 23–25, 2026 at The Diana Wortham Theatre

FEATURING ANOTHER EXCITING WORLD PREMIERE BY HEATHER MALOY PLUS THESE AUDIENCE FAVORITES…

Moving Forward Post-Helene

Terpsicorps has faced many challenges over the past 21 years, but our director, Heather Maloy’s unwavering passion and tenacity have always seen us through. Her creativity never rests, and her dedication to creating beautiful, meaningful work for the unique and empowered people of North Carolina promises a performance experience not to be missed.

Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene’s impact on the local economy, Maloy was, and is, determined to move forward.

“When Terpsicorps held its first performances after COVID, the joy and sense of renewed community that it brought to our audiences was palpable. Any doubts about the importance of the arts in our lives melted away during that run of shows, and despite the new challenges we will surely face raising funds in Asheville this year, we know that moving forward is the right decision for the mental health and happiness of our community and the audiences we serve.” - Heather Maloy, October 2024

And she was so right. The 2025 Season, featuring Appalachian Phoenix, was the most successful set of performances the company has had in its 22 years, not to mention an intensely healing experience for the community. Thank you for standing by us!

Here are four ways our loyal fans can help

1 - Take care of yourself! If you live in WNC, even if you came out of this event with your property intact, you are not unscathed. This has been a traumatic event for us all. As we lift each other up, we must remember to care for ourselves as well.

2 - Purchase a Ticket for the community - Terpsicorps acknowledges that while ticket prices are essential for our organization’s survival, they can also be a barrier for some members of our community. Experiencing the joy, unity, and healing of a Terpsicorps performance should not depend on one's ability to pay for a ticket. Please consider sponsoring a ticket or multiple tickets for those who deserve to share the joy of AscenDance but whose participation might otherwise be out of reach.

3 - Support the artists and small businesses that make WNC the uniquely magical place we hold so dear. Whether you live in the area, or far away, there are ways you can help by clicking the links below to find an opportunity that speaks to you.

4 - Don’t forget about the arts organizations that you hold dear. Even if an organization did not sustain physical damage, it is losing income as we speak. Especially with the current threats to the National Endowment for the Arts. After you give to support those most in need, try and reserve a small amount towards the future you want to see. Do you want North Carolina to remain a community that is vibrant, filled with performing arts organizations that give you joy? So do we!

Let’s work together to get normalcy back in our lives. Thank you in advance for supporting our community and understanding the importance of art!