Rosy Simas Danse

Support Rosy Simas Danse 

Who We Are:

Rosy Simas Danse is a Native led contemporary dance and art organization dedicated to creating transformative work at the intersection of movement, sound, and visual art. Rooted in Native cultural values, we honor the connections between people, land, and histories. Our work is more than dance—it’s an embodiment of storytelling, a space for reflection, and a shared experience of our humanity.

What We Do:

For over a decade, Rosy Simas Danse has been creating groundbreaking performances that center Native voices. Our work transcends the traditional stage, offering immersive experiences that invite audiences into a sacred and contemplative space. We provide opportunities for Native and BIPOC artists to develop and share their craft through our Artist Residency Program, which has supported emerging and established artists in creating meaningful new work. Each year, we bring together a diverse community of collaborators and audiences to witness, connect, and heal.

What We're Doing Now:

Our 2026 project A:gajë:gwah dësa’nigöëwë:nye:' (i hope it will stir your mind) is two distinct shows under the same title taking place at the Walker Art Center: an installation in the Walker's Burnet gallery opened February 12 and will run through July 2026; and a dance theatre performance on the Walker's McGuire stage made its world premiere May 13 - 16. 

The third part of the work is an ongoing program of community engagement events focusing on cultural exchange between Hodinöšyö:nih artists/scholars and the Twin Cities Native community. All events are free, some events and workshops are specifically for Native people.

Karen Ann Hoffman at the Walker Art CenterIn February 2026, Karen Ann Hoffman (Oneida Nation of Wisconsin), gave a lecture on raised beadwork at the Walker on Feb. 21, and led a two-day workshop on moccasin making workshop at RSD Studios on Feb.22 - 23.

On March 19, the Walker hosted Seneca Nation filmmaker Terry Jones' Haudenosaunee Micro-Short Film Program. Jones' 2016 film Corn Soup for My Brother was screened, followed by a community reception featuring traditional corn soup and strawberry drink.

Frazer Sundown leads a cornhusk twining workshop for Native people at Rosy Simas Danse studios. Frazer Sundown (Oneida Nation Turtle Clan) led a public workshop at the Walker on the practice of cornhusk twining on April 9, followed by a two-day intensive for Native people at RSD on April 11 and 12. 

June 12 - 14, our guest is Penny Minner (Seneca Turtle Clan), known for black ash splint basketmaking and cornhusk doll making. She will lead an art making event for the general public at the Walker Art Center on Friday, June 12, and a two-day intensive  basketmaking workshop for Native people, taking place at RSD studios, June 13 - 14.  

Traditional singer and dancer Sherri Waterman-Hopper (Onondaga Nation Beaver Clan) will lead a workshop on smoke dance for the Native American community at the Minneapolis American Indian Center of July 1, and for the general public at the Walker Art Center of July 2. 

Additional events featuring Hodinöšyö:nih culture-keepers, curators, educators, and artists are also planned.

Our partnership with the Walker Art Center is a powerful opportunity for us to present new work in an internationally recognized venue, amplifying Native and BIPOC voices and connecting with broader audiences. This residency will allow us to expand our artistic reach and deepen our engagement within the community, creating space for reflection, dialogue, and healing.

We are excited to continue our Native & BIPOC residency program with two resident artists: Alys Ayumi Ogura and Sequoia Hauck. 

In 2026, RSD will enter its third year of accessibility planning. We have made great strides over time, and this year we intend o conduct a formal feasibility study to determine where we need to be in the future to ensure that our programs are accessible for the communities we are in relation with.

Your Impact:

Your support will directly fund artist residencies, workshops, and performances that uplift Native and BIPOC voices. Together, we can ensure that our space remains a vibrant, inclusive home for creativity and community. Join us in making this vision a reality—support Rosy Simas Danse today!