Under the Artistic Direction of Dan Youmans, The Atlanta Jazz Theatre, Inc. was the first dance company in Atlanta devoted entirely to the study and performance of Jazz Dance. AJT is comprised of the Junior, Intermediate and Senior Companies, and within the Senior Company is a Professional Ensemble. Each year, nationally known guest choreographers are invited to expose our dancers and our audiences to various styles of Jazz Dance.

Since 1971, the Company has traveled from New York to Miami for performances, and the Junior Company has presented its “History of Jazz” dance showcase for nearly every public school, private school, and retirement center in the metro area. AJT’s recognition extended beyond the dance world in 1983 when it was officially commended by Governor Joe Frank Harris and the Georgia State assembly as the official Jazz Dance Company of Georgia. Mr. Youmans and the dancers of the Atlanta Jazz Theatre were invited to Barcelona , Spain to close the ceremonies of the Paralympic games and welcome the world to Atlanta . Mr. Youmans also served as Master Choreographer for the Atlanta Paralympic Games in 1996.

The Atlanta Jazz Theatre emphasizes versatility and its repertoire includes a range of dance mediums from Classical Ballet and Modern to Tap and Contemporary Jazz Dance. The company is presented in full concert each year. In 1999 AJT added the “Ballet Ensemble” to its performance opportunities. Auditions are held each Spring for the upcoming season . Auditions are open to all eligible dancers in the Atlanta area.