Same Planet Different World Dance Theatre (SPDW), led by artistic director Joanna Rosenthal, is a Chicago-based contemporary dance ensemble that has built a strong reputation for work that is evocative, entertaining and engaging. SPDW has received critical acclaim for its varied repertory and powerful performers. SPDW presents the choreography of artists from across the country, both seasoned veterans as well as up-and-coming innovators, with styles that range from classical to post-modern dance. The diverse spectrum of work can range from humorous satire to high-octane virtuosity, but never ceases to delight audiences with performances that are dynamic and inspiring. Contributing artists include Peter Carpenter, Faye Driscoll, Jan Erkert, Carl Flink, Ashleigh Leite, Molly Shanahan, Jeff Hancock, Shirley Mordine, Sam Watson, Shapiro and Smith Dance and to name a few.

The company self-produces two shows a year and participates in festivals throughout the Chicago area and elsewhere. SPDW has also performed in Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, St. Louis and New York. SPDW was one of the award winners of the Joyce Foundation’s A.W.A.R.D. Show! Chicago in 2010. SPDW was one of the companies featured In HMS's Chicago Dance Project, which aired on Chicago PBS, Channel 11 in 2005. SPDW was also listed as one of the best dance performances of 2008 by New City. SPDW has appeared on Chicago’s WLS –Channel 7 and WGN –Chanel 9.

SPDW Dance Theatre is responsible for the Guest Artists Project, a program that commissions national artists to conduct workshops and set new work on the company, and the High School Performance Series which benefits local area high school students by offering workshops and performances. The company is also part of Urban Gateways and holds open company classes at Visceral Dance Center.