Despite the COVID-related challenges the dance industry has faced in 2020, dancers and choreographers have found unique ways to pivot to continue creating and sharing art. One of the predominant ways the industry has adapted is translating live shows to dance films for virtual audiences to view. By merging the arts of film, photography, and dance, Devin Muñoz’s Muñoz Motions captures the vibrancy and dynamism of live dance performances in an accessible and enduring manner. Being a dancer herself, Devin’s practice adds new layers of creativity, allows artists to hone in on their messages, and potentially reach larger audiences than imaginable.
Read MoreIf you would have told Ethan Rome before college that he would have a career in dance, he likely would have been a bit confused. What started as dabbling in his college’s breakdancing club has become an integral part of the dancer, choreographer, and DWC Director of Marketing’s life. From performing around the world to co-founding his own dance companies to overseeing Dancewear Center’s image, Ethan has acquired rich experience in the dance industry and plays a crucial role on the DWC team. Read on to learn more about how he got here.
Read MoreThe COVID-19 pandemic isn’t the only phenomenon that’s caused the dance community to be a bit disjointed. A culture of competition and perfectionism has permeated the dance world, causing many dancers to see others as rivals rather than peers. To help alleviate the challenges that this type of environment can bring about, 17-year-old Samantha Parr has created the organization Dancer for Dancer to unite the dance community through open discussions, mental health support, and mentorship. Through Dancer for Dancer’s Pal Program and with the help of Pal Program coordinators like DWC staff member Emma Neilson, the organization is providing connection and support to dancers worldwide.
Read MoreIt’s no secret that dance is a costly and demanding practice, often completely inaccessible to families and communities lacking sufficient funds and resources. For many aspirational youngsters, obtaining proficient dance instruction is merely a far-fetched dream. But thanks to the nonprofit organization Syncopation Dance Project, this dream of dance training and performing has become a reality for many. Under the dynamic and skillful leadership of Artistic Director Elbert Lubas, Syncopation Dance Project strives to bring dance education and performance opportunities to everyone, particularly to underserved members of the greater Seattle community.
Read MoreThe past year and a half has been undoubtedly replete with hurdles, as much of the local dance community was left jobless due to COVID-19. Yet, through the hardships that unfolded throughout the pandemic, many were able to find unique ways to fill the gaps they were witnessing in the dance world. Dwelling in isolation served as a time for reflection and deep contemplation about how to emerge back into the dance realm. From private coaching to cross-training, from rebranding to expanding, and bridging the divide between dance and theatre, these organizations and individuals have created new beginnings for themselves amid adversity, leaving the local dance community better than they found it. Read on to learn more about these local artists and their latest endeavors.
Read MoreThe past year and a half has been undoubtedly replete with hurdles, as much of the local dance community was left jobless due to COVID-19. Yet, through the hardships that unfolded throughout the pandemic, many were able to find unique ways to fill the gaps they were witnessing in the dance world. Dwelling in isolation served as a time for reflection and deep contemplation about how to emerge back into the dance realm. From private coaching to cross-training, from rebranding to expanding, and bridging the divide between dance and theatre, these organizations and individuals have created new beginnings for themselves amid adversity, leaving the local dance community better than they found it. Read on to learn more about these local artists and their latest endeavors.
Read MoreFor over 25 years, Evergreen City Ballet has provided high-quality dance education to the South King County community. Following “innovation, collaboration, and community building” as the pre-professional ballet school’s pillars, Artistic Director Bennyroyce Royon strives to redefine dance education in the PNW by centering a variety of cultural histories and promoting holistic training.
Read MoreArtistry in Motion (AIMco.) is an up-and-coming local dance company, founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic by Julius Juju Flores. AIMco. features mostly commercial dance, focusing on athletics and a showcase feel. As Julius likes to say: “it's a dance company but we're so much more than that.” On July 25th, AIMco. is having its live show “Artistry in Motion Collective: FROM THE TOP!” which will be a celebration of many dances and art forms, including wacking, voguing, and drag. Tickets are available here.
Read MoreFor an artform with a long history of exclusivity, accessibility can be a difficult topic for many dance studios. Counter to traditions of gatekeeping, elitist training, and a hyper fixation on perfection, local studio Issaquah Dance Theater (IDT) offers a dance class tailored for neurodivergent and physically disabled students. The Best of My Abilities (BOMA) is an inclusive dance program founded by dancer and paraeducator, Emmy Fansler.
Read MoreAmid the COVID-19 pandemic, dancers, choreographers, and dance viewers were all separated from one another, isolated to the confines of their homes, and stripped of the opportunity to perform and do what they love. Thus, in 2021, Karyn Tobin and Ian Howe decided to launch Apropos Motus
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