Blog

Uplifting a Community Through Inclusivity and Collaboration

People feel comfortable within their comfort zones. Here in the Seattle dance scene, it’s natural to flock to micro-communities of people who have similar interests as you. Nonetheless, such divisions can foster a competitive atmosphere in a world where dancers increasingly need the support of each other. Marlo Martin, artistic director of eXit SPACE, is interested in disrupting this dominant script, uplifting dancers, and fostering cross-community collaboration through her work at eXit SPACE.

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Behind the Scenes with Elizabeth Bonar

Putting together a dance production can be a stressful experience for a choreographer and director. When putting the final touches on choreography, managing dancers, and carrying out other tasks, lighting design and stage management can slip to the back of choreographers’ and directors’ brains. Nonetheless, lighting design, stage, and house management are important parts of a production to consider, as they can greatly benefit the experience of a production for audience members and dancers alike when considered in detail. Elizabeth Bonar wears many hats as a local dancer, choreographer, teacher, lighting designer, and stage manager. Tune into Tea & Tendus at DWC Renton on March 13 at 5:30 PM to hear more about Elizabeth’s expertise and ask questions about all things “behind the scenes.”

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Bringing People Together at All-4-1 Dancepalooza

It’s no secret that the dance world today is riddled with competition. Whether it’s the stages of dance competitions or within the crowded studio of an audition, dancers are often encouraged to pull out their best skills to win over the hearts and minds of judges, casting directors, and audiences across the globe. Within a competitive world, it’s easy to lose sight of the supportive communities that dance can foster. Daniel Wilkins of DASSdance strives to promote an inclusive and celebratory environment at All-4-1 Dancepalooza, a dance festival showcasing over a hundred young artists in the greater Seattle dance community March 12-13, 2022.

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Laying the Groundwork for Legacy

I’m sure I’m not alone when I say that since 2020 hit, my construct of time has been distorted into a brand new reality… one where each day, week, month, and year seems to blend together. Every year, I look forward to carving out time to reflect on the past year and write my review of our accomplishments; however, this year I’ve been dragging my feet, mostly because 2021 has felt more like the third book in a long series than a stand-alone novel.

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Breaking the Mold to Cement a Place for Oneself

Operating in an industry with rigidly defined expectations and boundaries can take a toll on a person, particularly during an impressionable period in one’s life like childhood. Local dancer and choreographer Robbi Moore opens up on defying the status quo in the dance industry and providing transparency to performers.

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Mental Health and the Importance of Cultural Competency

From as early as I can remember I wanted to move. I felt a connection to music and energy through the floor that I couldn’t explain. When I look back on the things that shaped me, dance has been a constant. Through dance I found a voice and a method of expression that I couldn’t recreate

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Providing Holistic and Evidence-Based Care

Preparing to dance safely long-term involves more than just what happens in the studio. Engaging in activities that promote holistic physical and mental wellness are important supplements to a dancer’s career. Dr. Paulina Tselikis and the rest of the team at The PATH Rehab & Performance know this well. Paulina and the rest of the specialists at The PATH are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to achieving their personal athletic goals, whether that’s coming back after an injury, preventing one from occurring, and more.

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Just Graduated High School… Now What?

First of all, congratulations! Graduating high school is no easy feat and I’m proud of you for coming this far. The doors of opportunity have swung wide open, and taking the leap might feel daunting, but you are not alone! I’m here to offer some guidance, describe what may lie behind each door, and let you know that you’ve already done so much that has prepared you for this moment.


So many doors, so many unknowns!



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“Flight Flock” and Intentionality Behind Movement

In our daily lives, movement is a constant occurrence. Whether it’s cars passing one another on the street or people strolling through a park, it seems as though folks are always in motion. What makes dance so special, particularly to Alexandra Sipe, is its process of systematizing this movement and utilizing it to move through time and space with others. Seattle-based artist and instructor Alexandra Sipe opens up about her fascination with this process, along with her dance journey and upcoming projects.

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Competition and Convention Prep

You may know the simultaneously exciting and stressful feeling of walking into a convention ballroom room bright and early on a Saturday morning. You immediately feel the rush of energy and nerves surrounding you. If you are anything like me, you can't wait to spend the weekend learning from amazing instructors and meeting new people. But what can you do to ensure that you make the most of your time? The right preparation can make a world of difference when it comes to long weekends of conventions or competitions.

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