Cincinnati has had no resident modern dance company for a long time. But that's changing with the arrival of the brand-new MOVING ART: DANCE COMPANY. Founded by COLLEEN MCCARTY, the ensemble has announced a four-show season for 2004-2005, opening at Gabriel's Corner in November and culminating with performances in the second annual Fringe Festival in June 2005. Antioch College alumna McCarty's name is familiar from her recent atmospheric work during the first Cincinnati Fringe Festival with Rebecca Vie Parker under the name "Mokshayoho." The two will collaborate with other movement artists to create diverse works of stylistic and elemental fusion. McCarty says, "You can expect to see yoga mixed with dance, choreography with improvisation, music with movement, and breath with song." During its premiere season, the company will operate under the umbrella of Cincinnati Experimental Arts (CineX), another brainchild from Jason Bruffy, the driving force behind the Fringe Festival. (See additional information in Curtain Call, above.) Moving Art: Dance Company is seeking show and season sponsorship. Info: www.moving artdance.com.

Wondering what Cincinnati Ballet has been doing during its "off season"? Twenty-two dancers recently performed at the prestigious VAIL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF DANCE in Colorado. Originally an intensive dance workshop presented by the Bolshoi Ballet, the Festival has evolved over its 15-year existence into a higher-profile, international forum for tried-and-true classics and newer works. One performance highlight was a Cincinnati Ballet-commissioned work from sought-after choreographer Trey McIntyre. Set to dramatic music by Kronos Quartet, the piece explores Latin culture and relationships with passion and humor. The world premiere work proved instrumental in securing the Ballet's invitation to the Festival.

Ever seen the film Strictly Ballroom? Here's the real thing: CINCINNATI DANCESPORT's seventh annual competition is Thursday-Sunday at the Holiday Inn Resort at Cincinnati Airport. In addition to glittering costumes and glamorous makeup, the dancing is spectacular. Serious Professional, Pro-Am and Amateur competitors take to the floor in varied styles of Latin, waltz, even social salsa. Tickets for different sessions are available for spectators. It's a rare opportunity to experience ballroom dance live and up close! Friday evening features an after-hours salsa party (11 p.m.-2 a.m.). Info: 513-281-5500.