Dance of every persuasion thrives in this tropical paradise. A major unifying force is Miami Dance Futures (MDF), an organization dedicated to the support and growth of dance in Florida. This group encourages and promotes young Florida artists with financial and technical support. By commissioning innovative cross-cultural artistic works, MDF provides opportunities for dancers to make contributions to their communities. Contact MDF at: 300 Northeast 2nd Ave., Miami; (305) 237-3582.

Here are some other important dance establishments.

Ballet Flamenco La Rosa
555 NE 17th St., Miami Beach
(305) 757-8475 or (305) 672-0552

This professional company presents Flamenco dance in a theatrical setting as an ever-evolving art form. The group features company dancers and international guests at performances throughout the year. Many are held at the Colony Theater. Appealing to a broad audience since1985, the company is critically acclaimed in the artistic mainstream as well as in the Flamenco clubs of Little Havana.

Miami City Ballet
2200 Liberty Ave., Miami Beach
(305) 532-4880

This world-class professional ballet company performs a repertoire of works by contemporary and classical choreographers. Arriving in 1985, it is Florida's first major fully professional resident ballet company. Performances are held at the Jackie Gleason Theater of the Performing Arts, as well as in other venues.

Miami Hispanic Ballet
900 S.W. 1st St., Miami
(305) 549-7711

This group presents classical and other diverse dance forms, as well as multicultural art programs. It produces the widely acclaimed annual Miami International Ballet Festival.

Cuban Dance and Music Center
4545 N.W. 7th St., Suite 13, Miami
(305) 863-2151

The works of Cuban choreographers are performed in this small venue.

Iroko Dance and Performance Center
1860-A West Ave., Miami Beach
(305) 604-9141

Haitian and Afro-Cuban dances are performed in this intimate space.