Any lover of dance will tell you that the art form represents so much more than flailing limbs and gyrating hips. Dance is a dynamic medium that represents diversity, kinship and romance, and has sustained and evolved throughout human history. There is a reason why every ethnicity has incorporated this form of expression into its cultural framework: The need to shake it is universal.
Non-profit group DASSdance understands this notion like no other. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this local organization continually strives to expand the love of choreographed dance throughout local communities. One of the group’s hallmarks is its provision of formal dance education to individuals living in under-served neighborhoods.
So, how will DASSdance be celebrating their decade in the business? Here’s a hint: Dancing will be involved.
On April 22 and 23, the group will present ALL 4 1 Dancepalooza, a festival that will feature some of the Puget Sound’s most talented dancers and choreographers, all doing what they do best. For two funky nights, this celebration of human movement will be filled with breathtaking performances.
Local student troupes will be on hand, including Evergreen City Ballet, the Olympic Ballet Theatre, Whidbey Island Dance Theatre, Southwest Dance Center and DASS 2. Also scheduled to appear are several professional companies, such as Aerialist Jill Marissa, 127th St. Dance, Aerialistas and — last but not least — DASSdance’s own crew of talented dancers. Each set will showcase the work of a prominent local choreographer.
In addition to the performances, the festival will be offering master classes for aspiring dancers on April 23, from 1 to 4pm. For only $35, students can learn a variety of moves, ranging from ballet with Kevin Kaiser, jazz with Kabby Mitchell and choreography with Amy O’Neal. Daniel Wilkins, the artistic director and founder of DASSdance, will also be offering a course of his own: the contemporary-themed “All-Terrain Dance.” This unique form is modeled from Wilkins’ personal style – an eclectic blend of modern dance and ballet, infused with hip-hop, yoga and martial arts.
So get a move on and sign up today!
Tickets are available on www.brownpapertickets.com for the evening performances. It’s only $15 for general admission and $10 for students. You can also sign up for a class pass via DASSdance.
For more information about classes, call (206) 860-6020 or email info@dassdance.org
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