Festival Dance Blog

Spring Schedule!

2011-12-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

The new schedule is out!!

The Nutcracker

2011-11-29T12:01:00.000-08:00

By the Eugene Ballet brought to you by Festival Dance & Performing Arts!

THIS Sunday, December 4th 3:00 Beasley Coliseum

Clara dreams of her Nutcracker Prince, Giant mice appear from the fireplace and the comic Mouse King enters on a pirate ship. Skaters dance in a dreamy winter wonderland and Clara takes a magical trip in a balloon to the Sugar Plum Fairy's enchanted Land of Sweets. There's nothing like The Nutcracker! The Eugene Ballet Company is joined on stage by 57 students from Festival Dance Academy.

Get your tickets now! 800-325-7328

Festival Dance in the UI Homecoming Parade

2011-10-07T13:40:00.000-07:00

Anyone Can Join Festival Dance

Join us in the parade even if you
missed the dance class!

You have the option of sitting in the truck and/or walking while we toss candy to the crowd.

YOU CAN BE IN THE PARADE
EVEN WITHOUT DANCING!

We will need candy tossers, truck riders, banner holders, and
people walking with a smile.

HOMECOMING PARADE!!

To celebrate dance, movement, and fun, join us at the U of I Homecoming Parade "Viva los Vandals"!

It's fun for all ages!

The parade starts at 10:00am tomorrow. Arrive at/near the Rosauer's parking lot at about 9:45 and you will either see the Festival Dance truck with our banner on the front, or you can ask someone in charge what number we are. (Parade headquarters is under the tent.) You can find us based on that information relatively easily.

It will be great fun... we hope your whole family will want to participate. See you there!!

Festival Dance (208) 883-3267 or email Cindy@FestivalDance.org.

Visit www.festivaldance.org to learn more about

Festival Dance & Performing Arts.

Trey McIntyre Dance Company

2011-09-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

International choreographic phenomenon, Trey McIntyre gives dance a new look. Playful, creative, and unique, the company’s goal is to advance the form of contemporary ballet in innovative and groundbreaking ways. In December 2010, Trey McIntyre was named the United States Artists Wynn Fellow; the company was featured on PBS NewsHour with Jim Lehrer; and TMP was chosen by the U.S. Department of State as one of four American dance companies chosen to participate in DanceMotion USA. As part of this program Trey McIntyre Project will tour to China, South Korea, the Philippines and Vietnam in Spring 2012 serving as a U.S. Cultural Ambassador. But first, local audiences can experience this new dance sensation right here at the Beasley Coliseum!

Click here for Video

Festival Dance Student invited to Kirov Academy of Ballet!

2011-07-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

Festival Dance student, Simone Wulfhorst, had a chance to go to the Kirov academy of ballet in Washington D.C. this summer. Simone, daughter of Julie Parker and J.D. Wulfhorst, stayed in D.C. for three weeks and said she had a fabulous time and learned a lot. Shortly after Simone returned, she received a letter from the director of Kirov inviting her to the year round training program and boarding school. The director complemented Simone on her talent and advanced skills for her age as well as her spirit and attitude. Mother, Julie Parker, said ". . . as a student of Festival Dance in our little town Simone has learned so much from the school. Thanks. Festival Dance has made a big difference in her young life and helped her attain great skills already. Although I doubt she will start attending the Kirov year round this year, I hope that she can do so in the future."

From everyone at Festival Dance, congratulation Simone! We are so proud of you!

Music Man

2011-07-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

Festival Dance's summer workshop, Imagination Arts, will perform a mini musical of The Music Man at the Moscow Farmer's Market Saturday, July 16^th at 9:00. Participants are 12 local boys and girls. The workshop is from 9:00 to 1:00 every day this week at the Festival Dance studios on the UI campus in the Physical Education Building. The workshop instructor and choreographer, Crystal Bain, UI graduate now working in Coeur D'Alene, also former Festival Dance Faculty, teaches the children choreography, musical theatre, voice projection, rhythm, and general stage craft. Students will make some of their own costumes and "back drop" for the final show and keep the costumes and other crafts they make.

"This workshop packs in fun while teaching technical skills that will benefit young people by developing complex social and performance skills, confidence, and coordination," says Executive Director, Cindy Barnhart. "It's amazing to see the older students and the younger students working so well together, while learning and having so much fun with the funny story line of The Music Man."

The workshop will also perform the mini musical at the Moscow Farmer's Market August 27^th and at the Latah County Fair, as well as the UI Homecoming Parade.

Festival Dance Academy is the official dance school of Festival Dance and Performing Arts, a non-profit organization that supports cultural diversity, performing arts, arts education, and dance programs for youth. For more information, please contact: Executive Director, Festival Dance at 208-883-3267 or email Cindy@FestivalDance.org. Visit www.festivaldance.org to learn more about Festival Dance & Performing Arts

Ballet Princess Workshop and June Session Start Monday

2011-06-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

Do you know a Princess?

We have the perfect workshop for your little princess. In this fun, but disciplined dance workshop your princess will learn basic ballet positions, balance, point & flex, stretches, releve, plie, posse, tendu, chasse, hop & leap, marches & skips,
physical games, self confidence, performance basics, and more! Your little one won’t want to miss this sweet, dreamy workshop taught by Festival Dance Faculty, Connie Benson.

Princesses decorate their own Pink Tutu, Magic Wand, and
Tiara to take home on the last day. These embellished pieces of artwork will also be worn for the parent’s performance as well as at the Moscow Farmer’s Market June 18 at 9:00am.

June 13-17th

11:00 to noon
University of Idaho PE Bldng
Studio 110

Ages 4 - 7
Cost: $65
(Includes tutu, wand,
and tiara to take home.)
Final Performance at Moscow Farmer’s Market June 18 at 9:00am.
We still have space! Sign Up Now

The June Dance Session begins Monday and offers Ballet, Jazz, and Celtic classes for all levels. Contact us to register or go to http://www.festivaldance.org/ to see the schedule and print a registration form.

Yours in dance,

2011 The Summer of Dance

2011-05-03T10:51:00.000-07:00

Dance is everywhere. It’s not just in theatres and on stages across the world- it’s on TV and billboards, in movies and all over the web. “So You Think You Can Dance” is now in its eighth season, Natalie Portman took home an Oscar for her portrayal of an obsessed ballerina in Black Swan, and let’s not forget High School Musical and the dance-filled “Glee”! Upcoming movies featuring dance include Footloose, Rock of Ages and Move. More and more dance clubs are being formed every year, and ballroom dance has been elevated to a competitive sport. Dance Schools are getting into the action by offering performance teams, team dance, performance based workshops, and other highly specialized groups that compete for top prizes.
Since the golden days of Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, and even before, there have been remarkable dancers in Hollywood, many of whom were trained as children in small, inconspicuous, dance studios run by a teacher that was passionate about dance. Today, with so much demand for dance, dance schools are hoping to ride the wave of interest.

Studios know that to produce talented dancers requires commitment from the dancer, the dancer’s care givers, and the instructor. Festival Dance Academy, a local dance school that is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2011-2012, has a tight curriculum for teachers to follow. It is important for a teacher to be personable, care about her students, and encourage excellence – both in the studio and out. An excellent dance education includes the development of properly executed dance technique as well as social skills, artistry, and above all confidence.

For the body, it is well known that dance develops coordination, flexibility, stamina, large muscle strength, small motor skills and control, rhythm, and balance. For the mind, dance develops concentration, discipline, focus, spacial awareness, and a mind/body connection.

To get started in dance, whichever genre is chosen, a summer workshop is often a wonderful way to test the waters. Workshops are a short, intensive dance experience that provides the new dancer the chance to explore dance without committing to a weekly class. Locally, dance workshop selections are rich and variable with options for all ages.

As early as May 23rd, one can begin a week long Celtic Dance workshop for the beginner or intermediate dancer. The same week is a Ballet workshop that is geared toward the dancer that has had a few years of dance to advanced dancers ages nine to adult. There is a very popular “Ballet Princess” workshop June 13-17 for ages four to seven, a mini musical performance workshop themed “The Music Man” July 11-15. A workshop based on the Broadway hit “STOMP” in mid July for students in 4th through 6th grades, and an annual intensive Ballet/Jazz workshop the last week in July called “Dance Idaho.” Many of the workshops perform their final showcase in dance presentations for the community at local Farmer’s Markets, fairs, and parades.

With dance options like these, it is now easier than ever to join into the dance craze while getting fit and connecting your mind to your body. Go to www.festivaldance.org for workshop and dance class schedules or call 883-3267.

We are living in scary times for the arts...

2011-04-25T14:04:00.000-07:00

We are living in scary times…Arts funding from every source has taken a beating, and in general, there is a feeling of unease in the arts world.

Festival Dance is feeling the uncertainty.
Through tough times and good times, we positively impact our community by educating youth in the arts and by providing diverse artistic opportunities that are accessible to all. By bringing world class performances to the area, providing free educational performances for 5,000 youth in 13 area communities, helping the universities with dance classes and programs for students, and offering dance courses in rural communities, we positively impact lives and our community.

Sadly Festival Dance ended last year with a $4,000 deficit. Because of the power of our programs and our strategic vision, we absorbed that loss while continuing to maintain and improve our existing programs that touch the lives of so many. We have made prudent choices and cut expenses where appropriate; however, due to circumstances beyond our control we are projecting an even larger deficit this year. With your financial support, you can help us reverse this trend. We are looking to you to help us continue to make a positive difference. Every dollar matters.
Already this year we have reached 8,600 people through our programs. Enriching lives is what we do.
This is what your contribution can do:

 $1,000 can allow us to offer free ballet classes in Lapwai, Idaho for an entire semester for all interested youth.

 $500 can pay for 6 hotel rooms to accommodate 12 professional dancers we bring to town to perform.

 $350 can pay for 15 Senior Citizens to attend a world class performance.

 $250 can pay for 10,000 post cards to advertise our enriching and diverse dance series.

 $150 can pay for a bus, driver, and fuel to bring 3 classes of 3rd graders to an educational performance.

 $25 to $100 can contribute to a dance scholarship for a student whose family is struggling financially.

Imagine the feeling you’ll get, knowing you have touched the lives of children and adults by making the performing arts more accessible, enhancing quality of life, and making a positive difference in these scary times. We appreciate your help.

To donate, please contact us at 208-883-3267.
Yours in dance-

Internationally Renowned African Dance Choreographer

2011-03-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

Lula Washington Dance Theatre To Appear In Pullman

2011-03-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

Sandwiched between tours of Russia and China, the Lula Washington Dance Theatre will visit the Palouse for a two day residency, which will include a public performance at Beasley Coliseum on Sunday, April 3rd at 3pm and two educational programs for area students on Monday, April 4th at Beasley and at Troy High School. The residency is sponsored by Festival Dance & Performing Arts with support from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Western States Arts Federation, and local assistance from the Latah County Community Foundation and the Moscow Hotel.

In addition to its recent successful tour of Russia, the Los Angeles based company has danced in over 150 cities in the United States, as well as abroad in Germany, Spain, Kosovo, Mexico, and Canada. The Russian tour follows Lula Washington Dance Theatre’s 2009 performance at the International Book Fair in Guadalajara, Mexico, where some 1,500 viewers stood for an entire two-hour concert without an intermission, and then screamed for more when the dancing ended.

Company founder and director, Lula Washington is a much honored national dance treasure, who is fulfilling her vision of creating a dance company that performs the works of leading African American choreographers as well as her own pieces reflecting Black culture and history. Recently she received notice for her assistance in the movie “Avatar,” for which she created cultural/ritual movements including war scenes, hunting and large dance sequences for the motion capture technology.

Lula is admired as a teacher, leader, dancer, and choreographer with a very unique style and approach to dance. Stylistically, Lula fuses African and Afro-Haitian dance. She also incorporates the dance styles of gospel church, classical ballet, modern, street, theatrical, hip hop, while drawing from various ideas and issues. Her works have been praised by critics for their strong political and social commentary, as well as their avant-garde composition and their roots in African-American culture.

Prior to “Avatar”, Lula choreographed Disney’s The Little Mermaid movie. One of the songs that she choreographed, “Under The Sea”, won an Academy Award. Lula has been the subject of several nationally broadcast news stories including a PBS special that focused on her choreography for “Gospel Kwanzaa” – a blending of gospel and African dance in salute of the Christmas and Kwanzaa holidays.

In 1983, Lula established her own dance school that provides low cost and free dance classes to neighborhood children through an after school program called “I Do Dance, Not Drugs!” Remembering her own impoverished childhood, she wanted to make dance classes affordable for and accessible to children from low income neighborhoods, where her studio is based. Since then, the School has taught dance to over 45,000 inner-city students.

The April 3rd performance will present a wide spectrum of dance styles and themes, including the social commentary piece, “We Wore the Mask;” a jazz piece, “Thanks and Praises;” a high-spirited “Ode to the 60’s;” a tongue in cheek comment on contemporary culture, “WWW.Connections.2010;” and a breathtaking solo, “Angelitos Negros,” by legendary African American pioneer choreographer, Donald McKayle.

“We are thrilled by the opportunity to finally present this internationally acclaimed dance company for both public and educational programs,” said Festival Dance executive director, Cindy Barnhart. “We have been trying to bring them here for several years, and finally a northwest tour has come together.”

Tickets for the April 3rd matinee performance of Lula Washington Dance Theatre are available from Festival Dance office, Beasley Coliseum and TicketsWest outlets. Prices are $14 to $28, with discount for groups of 10 or more. WSU students will be admitted free.

The Princess and the Pea

2011-03-13T09:21:00.000-07:00

Lula Washington Dance Theatre

2011-03-09T15:39:00.000-08:00

Lula Washington, award winning artistic director, who helped create the choreography for the Na’vi in James Cameron’s blockbuster “Avatar,” is bringing her internationally renowned dance company for its premier Great Performances appearance. Lula Washington Dance Theatre has performed from the Kennedy Center to the Olympics, and is popular for its dynamic, energetic dance that ranges from humor and fun to strong emotional themes of Black history. These terrific dancers are sure to delight area audiences with their signature blend of African, jazz, contemporary dance, ballet and hip-hop.

Call 1.800.325.7328 or 208.883.3267 for tickets! Visit festivaldance.org for video.

WSU Students FREE!

Tickets are $28-$14.

58 Students Cast in The Princess and the Pea!

2011-03-01T13:16:00.000-08:00

58 Students were cast at auditions at the Moscow High School Auditorium Monday, Feb. 28th at 4:00.

96 students participated in the audition. The audition was set up as a free theatre workshop, so even the students that weren’t cast in the show learned stage craft from the Missoula Children’s Theatre directors, Alea Figueroa and Rob Yoho. It was a wonderful time!

Jack Frost: Jennifer Harrington, Prince Iceman: Hunter Gould, Storm King: Abe Foster, Snow Queen: Jamie Newsome, Glacierdom Phony Princesses: Amelia Steele, Adrianna Kauffman,

Leprechauns: Aidan Barnhart, Angela Paparazzo, Wesley Kirkland, Ariane Peterson

Princess Full Size: Victoria Gregory

Pea: Tara Petersen

King Size: Caleb Stucki

Queen Size: Helena Kirkland

Riverdom Phony Princesses: Kasancra Carston, Reese Miller

Glacierdom Citizens: Yvette Bonney, Nadine Abdel-Rahim, Susanna Fender, Megan Brown, Maggie Daqwkins, Lydia Williams, Brynlee Pupunu Laura Kirkland, Katherine Allen, Cary Jeffrey, Elijah Altman

Riverdom Citizens: Hayley Knott, Samantha Allen, Colin Walker, Alli McIlroy, Hannah Heaton, Marissa Weir, Patrick Robichaud, Isaac Falen, Simone Wulfhorst, Mariah Suquet, Kaylee Mordhorst

Dust Bunnies: McKae Sorenson, Madison Bellknap, Madeline Withrich, Mya Tyson, Amelia Black, Corey Mordhorst, Kenna Pupunu, Emmett Brooks, Rebecca Kirkland, Maddei Lester, Shafer Dickus, Michael Bellmore, Ashlyn Walker, Dillon terry, Ali Terry, Geneva Gregory, Kalena Suquet.

The pianist is Natalie Williams. Helen Smith is the Special Festival Dance Assistant.

Festival Dance and Performing Arts brings Missoula Children’s Theatre to Moscow every year as part of their Youthreach programs that promote the performing arts and touch the lives of 5,000 students annually. Festival Dance’s Youthreach programs focus on cultural diversity, accessibility to the arts, nurturing local talent, community involvement and artistic excellence.

Alea and Rob arrived in Moscow Sunday evening with a set, lights, costumes, props and make-up, everything it takes to put on a play. They will be staying at the home of Patricia Nelson, who is a retired 2nd grade Moscow school teacher.

“As a retired teacher, I think it’s great that Festival Dance brings in the Missoula Children’s Theatre to provide a free theatre experience to local children, so I help out any way I can. Opening my home to the directors is a way for me to do my part,” says Patricia Nelson.

Alea and Rob rehearse the 58 students throughout the week for the 2 performances on Saturday, March 5th at 3:00 and 7:00. Ticket prices for the Saturday show are: adults $6, children & students $4 and can be purchased at the door or at Bookpeople in Moscow. All MCT shows are original adaptations of classic children’s stories and fairytales.

Also included in the residency are three enrichment workshops presented by the Tour Actor/Directors. These will take place in classrooms in Troy, and Moscow. Creativity, social skills, goal achievement, communication skills and self-esteem are all characteristics that are attained through the participation in this unique, educational project.

The Missoula Children's Theatre (MCT), the nation’s largest touring children’s theatre, has been touring extensively for 35 years now from Montana to Japan, and will visit nearly 1,300 communities this year with 47 teams of Tour Actor/Directors.

Great Performances Season 2011-2012!

2011-02-23T18:04:00.000-08:00

Next year's season is AWESOME!

Trey McIntyre Dance Company
Sunday, October 2, 3:00 pm
Beasley Coliseum

Eugene Ballet's “Nutcracker”
Sunday, December 4, 3:00pm
Beasley Coliseum

BYU Ballroom Dance Company
Saturday, March 24, 3:00pm
Beasley Coliseum

Juan Siddi Flamenco Dance Company
Sunday, April 1, 3:00pm
Beasley Coliseum

Info will be on our web page soon, so check http://www.festivaldance.org/ often!

An Dochas and the Haran Irish Dancers Coming Soon!

2011-02-07T14:19:00.000-08:00

The “wearing o’ the green” will come early this year. Instead of waiting until St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th to hear and enjoy Irish music and dance, area residents can celebrate the Celtic spirit at a dynamic performance of An Dóchas and the Haran Irish Dancers on Sunday, February 20th 3pm at Beasley Coliseum in Pullman. The performance is the third offering in the Festival Dance & Performing Arts 2011-2012 Great Performances Series.

Awarded the 2006 Celtic Instrumental Album of the Year, An Dóchas delivers soul stirring fiery Irish music along with musical accompaniment for the fast-paced hard shoe step dancing of the Haran Irish Dancers. An Dóchas, Gaelic for “The Hope,” captivates audiences of all ages with their lively interpretations of traditional and contemporary original Irish music. For the six member band, a driving rhythm section of guitar, bass, and drums supports an array of traditional instruments including Uilleann pipes, whistles, bodhran, fiddle, and mandolin. The band incorporates moving ballads as well as rowdy comical vocals into their sets creating an emotional dynamic performance to accompany explosive Irish step dancing.

The Haran Irish Dancers have been performing for over a decade. The dancers’ tours have included stops in Austria and Japan and multiple trips to the Irish Step Dancing World Championships. Home based north of Spokane, An Dóchas and the Haran Irish Dancers have performed to sold out audiences throughout the U.S.

Adding a home made touch to the program, three groups of Irish dancers from the Festival Dance Academy will join in the performance, dancing to music of An Dóchas. These dancers are taught and coached by instructor, Katie Bouma. In addition, Haran Irish dancers will teach a free master class at noon on the Beasley Coliseum stage. The class is open to students who have had three years of Irish dance training. The class is limited to 30 participants on a first-come; first served basis. To sign up, email Maureen@festivaldance.org and leave your name and phone number.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer this fantastic Celtic ensemble for the region,” says Festival Dance executive director, Cindy Barnhart. “Whenever we survey our audience, we get many requests for Irish dance and music. And our last Celtic program performed by Trinity Irish Dance, was a sell out hit.”

Festival Dance is dedicating the performance to the memory of recently departed community leader, Jeff Martin, former C.E.O. of Gritman Medical Center. The Celtic Celebration is funded in part by a grant from the Inland Northwest Community Foundation.

Tickets for the February 20th performance are priced at $ 28 to $ 14. WSU students are admitted free through support by WSU VPLAC. Corporate Sponsors are: Idaho Public Television, Gritman Medical Center, KQQQ News Talk, National Endowment for the Arts, KHTR Hit Radio 104.3, Idaho Commission on the Arts, and MyRadio 102.5. Tickets are available at Beasley Coliseum, Festival Dance Office and Tickets West outlets.

See you there!

Festival Dance has a New Intern!

2011-01-26T16:54:00.000-08:00

My name is Kaylee Suto and I am interning with Festival Dance for Spring 2011. I am a student at the University of Idaho majoring in Public Relations with a minor in dance. I am so excited to be a part of this fantastic organization that provides so much to the community.

I am a huge fan of the arts, especially dance. I began dancing at the age of 12 at a local studio in my hometown of Sandpoint, Idaho. It was through the school's middle school and high school dance teams that drove my love for the artistic and competitive aspects of dance. I was able to use my talent in the Junior Miss Scholarship Program where I won the 2007 Sandpoint Junior Miss title and choreographed the following year's program. In high school I also enjoyed teaching a young girls dance class with a friend. As I moved into my college dance career I have been able to encounter many growing experiences with dance through the University. I was a member of the University's dance team for two years, and have been involved with Dancers, Drummers, and Dreamers within the dance program. I have also auditioned for the television show So You Think You Can Dance and in just about one month I will be auditioning for Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship dancer productions. As you can see, dance is a huge part of my life!

It is an amazing opportunity I have with Festival Dance to incorporate my love of dance with my career choice. If you are ever passing through the PEB please stop by the Festival Dance office in Room 203, I would love to say Hi!

Free Dance Classes in January & Workshops!

2011-01-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

Free Classes at Festival Dance Academy for the month of January!

Is your child interested in learning ballet, tap, Jazz, or Celtic dance? Bring them to classes free for the month of January! Bring a friend, too! Just go to www.festivaldance.org, click Classes, then have a look at the schedule of your choice. Once you've chosen the class(es) you'd like to try, click Registration and print the registration form and bring it with you to class.
We'd like to give everyone the opportunity to experience the joys of dance, so please spread the word. If you think someone you know may be interested in this offer, we would be happy for you to forward this post.
This offer is for New Students Only except for students in the Genesee classes. All Genesee classes and workshops are free for the month of January for all students. See the flier below.

Reminder:

Festival Dance Academy Classes resume January 12th.
(Classes in Genesee resume January 11th.)
*Classes will be held on Martin Luther King Jr. Day., Monday, January 17th.
We're looking forward to a wonderful spring semester of dance, discovery, and creativity at Festival Dance. Join us!

Music video - Joy to the World!

2010-12-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

Joy to the World was a wonderful performance of dancers, musicians, and vocalists to celebrate the holiday season! This video features pictures and video that were taken by parents of the dancers as well as C. Rod Bacon, professional photographer. ENJOY!

Local Dancers Have Fun With the Eugene Ballet

2010-11-02T17:22:00.000-07:00

As you know, many local dance students had the opportunity of a lifetime to perform onstage with the Eugene Ballet in October. The Cinderella performance was amazing! Jailyn Knott and Hailey Knott were 'Pages' in the production and obviously had a wonderful time! (They are not related!)

Cinderella in the PULSE

2010-10-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

We are so happy to have the article about the Eugene Ballet's "Cinderella" performance in the Moscow-Pullman Daily News PULSE section! Click Here to read the online version.
Festival Dance's mission is to bring world class performing artists to our area to enhance the quality of life of the people on the Palouse and the L-C Valley. Professional dance performances provide cultural diversity and economic vitality to our communities.

Cinderella is Sunday, October 24th at 3:00. We are sold out in the office, so you should call 800-325-7328 to order your tickets or you can still buy tickets at the door.

See you there!

"Cinderella" - Eugene Ballet coming soon!

2010-10-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

Eugene Ballet Cinderella

If the Slipper Fits, Marry the Prince!
Enjoy the classic tale of Cinderella, with music by Sergei Prokofiev, fanciful sets, elaborate costumes, and plenty of drama and romance. The comedic antics of the ugly stepsisters contrast with the enchanting grace of Cinderella and the romantically handsome prince. Beautifully danced with perfection, this ballet performance is a special fairy tale treat for your little princess, and will impress and inspire people of all ages with the beauty of the ballet!

Click Here to watch the video.

Free Dance Classes at the BellTower

2010-09-27T17:03:00.000-07:00

Free dance classes going on now at the BellTower in Pullman.

Beginning Ballet Teen-Adult Monday 3:45-5:15
Tap 1 Monday 6:30-7:30
Ballroom Dance Class Tuesday 6:30-7:30
Ballroom Dance Party Tuesday 7:30-9:30
Celtic 1 Wednesday 4:15-5:15
Modern Dance Thursday 5:00-6:00
Beginning Ballet Teen-Adult Friday 3:30-5:00

For updates on our classes, text 'festdance' to 91011, or call Festival Dance at 208-883-3267.

Festival Dance in Pullman!

2010-09-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce dance classes at the BellTower in Pullman! We will offer Beginning Ballet for ages 14-Adult, Tap, Adult Tap, Beginning Celtic for all ages, Ballroom Dance, and Modern. Classes begin next week, on Monday, Sept. 27th and all classes are FREE THE FIRST WEEK! For updates on our classes, text 'festdance' to 91011.

The Ballroom classes are on Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 followed by a dance party! For updates about our ballroom classes and dance parties, text 'ballroom' to 91011.

Reply to this blog and I'll send you the schedule!

KLEW-TV and Jayanthi Raman Dance Co.

2010-09-20T12:50:00.000-07:00

The Jayanthi Raman Dance Company performance was a great success at bringing people together and enhancing understanding of the Indian culture.

Here's the KLEW-TV piece that ran in the eveing news last week. http://www.klewtv.com/news/local/103009384.html?video=pop&t=a

We're so happy we got news coverage!

Tri-State sold to Crown Enterprises Inc., Sportsman & Ski Haus.

2010-09-10T13:42:00.000-07:00

One of Festival Dance's corporate sponsors, Tri-State, has been sold to Crown Enterprises Inc., Sportsman & Ski Haus. But Tri-State will not change, according to former owner Gerard Connelly. And hopefully the new owners will continue to support local non-profit organizations as Gerard always has. Thank you for the support Tri-State!

Click Here for Story

Dancers from India next Tuesday!

2010-09-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

Festival Dance Faculty for 2010-11

2010-09-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a wonderful group of talented and beautiful instructors we have for this year!

Classes begin next Tuesday, September 7th and will continue through December 17th, with no classes the week of Thanksgiving.

Registration forms and information are at
http://www.festivaldance.org/ - just click the Classes tab.

Have a fantastic and SAFE Labor Day weekend!

FREE Dance Workshops!

2010-08-27T07:08:00.000-07:00

Not only will young dancers perform Little House on the Prairie, the mini-musical, tomorrow (Saturday) morning at the Moscow Farmer's Market (9:00) but we're offering two free dance workshops later in the afternoon at the beautiful dance studios on the UI campus in the PE Building!

At 1:00 Karissa Jacobs will teach a Kinderdance/Movement/Creative class that is especially for the young dancer age 4-7. At 2:00, Shannon Dake will teach a fun, active Jazz/Hip Hop class for ages 7 and up. And yes - it's all completely free- no pre-registration necessary.

This is a great time to come meet our newest faculty members and enroll for your fall dance classes. We'll be happy to answer any questions about class placement, dress code, etc.

Have a great day dancing!

Guest Blog by Mauri Knott FDPA Parent and Board Member

2010-08-19T12:34:00.001-07:00

Why my daughters dance...
Doesn't every little girl dream of being a ballerina, tap dancer, or performer? I know I did and know my stepdaughter (8) and my daughter (4) do. What is it about dance that draws us in? At my daughters ages I believe it is the magic of dance. The gracefulness and beauty of ones body in motion, the thrill of donning their leotards and performing, and in their own words the "fun".

I on the other hand have very different reasons why my daughters dance. I can see past the pink tutus and polish and know that they are gaining a sense of belonging and accomplishment, a trusted relationship with a caring adult, self confidence and presence and composure, and a healthy but beautiful outlet for their energy.

Whatever the reason maybe I encourage you to give your daughters the great opportunity to DANCE!

Jayanthi Raman Dance Company

2010-08-18T17:00:00.000-07:00

Jayanthi Raman Dance Company will be at the WSU Beasley Coliseum Tuesday, September 14 at 7:00 to perform “Shrishti–Creation.” Described as “an elegantly musical dancer,” Master dancer/choreographer Jayanthi Raman, brings together a brilliant cast of dancers and musicians from India. Exquisite choreography, authentic costumes and jewelry, and elaborate lighting add to the beauty and artistry of this show that dazzles audiences and breaks down cultural boundaries between people.

Tickets are $14-$25 from Festival Dance or 800-325-7328
Video: Jayanthi Raman Dance Company

Register Now for Fall!

2010-08-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

Fall dance classes are about to begin!

· Limited class sizes for personalized instruction

· Emphasis on technique and dance skill sets

· Outstanding professionally trained instructors

· Resident dance studio at the University of Idaho

· Classes in: Moscow, Troy, Lewiston, Genesee, Lapwai, Orofino

· Youth Outreach programs in Latah County & North Idaho

· Recipient of state and national grants

· Member of local and national arts organizations

· Exciting performance opportunities!

Go to our website to download all studio schedules and registration forms! Classes start September 7th!

www.festivaldance.org

Hawaiian Birthday Party

2010-07-18T22:52:00.000-07:00

Hawaiian Birthday Party

Today we had the annual Hawaiian Birthday party at Patricia Nelson's home for Aidan Barnhart's 10th Birthday. Most the girls at the event are Festival Dance students. Aloha!

Our Upcoming Season!

2010-06-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

Video of our upcoming season. We Bring You the World! From authentic dancers from East India to the choreographer of the box office hit movie AVATAR, we bring the performing arts to the people that live in the Palouse and L-C Valley to enhance quality of life and cultural diversity. Go to www.festivaldance.org to learn more about each show.

Yours in dance,

Advertise with Festival Dance

2010-06-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

Our season program is a gorgeous 16 page full-color mag that is distributeted for one year in the Palouse and L-C Valley. We print 4,000 copies; deliver them to audiences at the Beasley and at all our shows.

Best value around - $150 for a business card size (2.5 high x 3.5 wide) advertisement. Support the arts, Festival Dance, and advertise your business. Call Cindy at 208-883-3267 to discuss your design options.

Amanda gets married!

2010-06-04T15:37:00.000-07:00

Amanda and Ryan Souza got married May 29th on Waimanalo Beach in Hawaii. We are so happy for them! Have a look at this beautiful bride. She is having a wonderful time- much deserved time off- and enjoying a fantastic honeymoon in Hawaii. (Wish I were there! This rain is depressing!)

Amanda will be returning to work June 14th- which is the first day of the June dance session.

Aloha!

Job Opening at Festival Dance - Admin. Assistant

2010-06-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

Festival Dance is now acception applications for Administrative Assistant!

30 hours a week (3/4 time), with some nights and weekends.
$12 per hour ($18,000 per year)
http://ow.ly/1SDdA

Join a vibrant arts non-profit organization with a wide array of activities and programs! Learn about the performing arts, help with educational youth programs, work with young dancers and their parents, and become involved with a sucessful and influential organization. Creativity is rewarded, flexibility is possible, and fulfillment is ensured!

Organizational skills are a must, analytical thinking and computer expertise is required.

Have a look at the position description, then contact Cindy@festivaldance.org

Free Ballroom Dance Class!

2010-03-31T11:59:00.000-07:00

Festival Dance is proud to offer a FREE ballroom dance class open to all community members. The class is this Saturday, April 3rd at the 1912 Building from 6:30-9:00. Bring your partner or come solo and we'll find one for you!

Instructors Sarah Bloomsburg and Scott Doughty will teach you how to dance like a pro in this fun, energetic class. We hope to see you there!

Sherry Zunker - Here At UI Dance!

2010-02-26T10:35:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ecf8wfrlOw4

Sherry Zunker is the Founding Director of Aylet Creative a newly formed entertainment division of Aylet Incorporated. Sherry has developed a creative entourage that consults and facilitates new artistic and entertainment products. Her creative team is also an entertainment resource, which nurtures and connects talent to the professional world. Ms Zunker is perhaps best known for her work as Co-Artistic Director of River North Chicago Dance Company. Sherry joined River North Chicago as artistic director in 1990. She choreographed numerous works for the company, one of them being the signature piece “Reality of a Dreamer” which also became the finale piece for the award winning televised documentary of the same name. Sherry also commissioned the work of many choreographers to compile the Company’s diverse, engaging repertoire. Ms. Zunker has set her works on several companies including The Joffrey Ballet of Chicago and Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago.
Her choreography and direction outside of the concert dance realm encompasses musical productions, commercials, music videos, and live industrial shows. During the last decade Ms. Zunker has conceptualized, choreographed or directed over 30 production shows for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line.

Tickets On Sale Now!

2010-02-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

Tickets for Cirque D'Or, Golden Dragon Acrobats are on sale now! All TicketsWest outlets, or call 800-325-7328. $14-$30

March 28, 3:00
WSU Beasley Coliseum

Click for video.

FREE Dance Workshop!

2010-02-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

The University of Idaho Center for Dance is bringing world-renowed Jazz Dance artist Sherry Zunker to the Inland Northwest! Besides teaching movement clinics for the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and choreographing a dance for the university, Zunker will be teaching a Jazz Dance Workshop geared towards upper level jazz dancers and teachers the weekend of Jazz Festival. This workshop is free to the public. Included in this workshop will be a Jazz Dance Pedagogy class for current and future jazz dance teachers and an open rehearsal of Zunker choreographing a lively new dance to the song, Sind Sing Sing.

25 dancers only. Pre-registration is requested. Those needing accomodations for the weekend should visit the Jazz Festival website at www.uidaho.edu/jazzfest. For more info please contact Greg Halloran at halloran@uidaho.edu.

Funded throught the University of Idaho Center for Dance by the Florence Wasmer Fund for the Arts and Culture of the Inland Northwest Community Foundation.

VPLAC Supports Cirque D'Or!

2010-02-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

WSU's VPLAC has decided to sponsor Cirque D'Or as well as Manding Jata. VPLAC (Visual, Performing, Literary, Arts Community) provides support to local arts organizations - and boy are we thankful for the funding!

VPLAC has a 25 year history of bringing thought-provoking, art, cultural events, and unique personalities to the Washington State University campus. VPLAC is committed to sponsoring programs that embody the increasingly diverse artistic and cultural influences we find in today’s world. In tandem with multicultural student organizations and WSU liberal arts disciplines, VPLAC searches for the best concerts, recitals, lectures, films, readings, events, performers, and exhibits to connect WSU and our Palouse regional community with the world at large.
In addition, VPLAC awards several competitive grants annually to directly support student-produced cultural events and other WSU functions.

Is is a pleasure working with the committee and co-chairs, Jerry McCollum and Dan Watson.
http://ow.ly/12Lnk

A simple way to support the performing arts...

2010-02-03T14:55:00.000-08:00

We have something new and exciting we'd like to share with you! It's the new Festival Dance and Performing Arts Association toolbar - once added to IE or Firefox, each time you shop at more than 1,300 stores (from Amazon to Zazzle!) a percentage of your purchase will automatically be donated to Festival Dance and Performing Arts Association - at no cost to you (and you may even save money as the toolbar provides coupons and deals as well!). The toolbar also has a search box and each time you search the Internet, about a penny is donated to Festival Dance and Performing Arts Association.

http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/university-of-idaho-festival-dance-and-performing-arts-association

Gearing up for the Chinese Acrobats!

2010-02-01T14:39:00.000-08:00

We are getting very excited about the Golden Dragon Acrobats! This is a part of Festival Dance that I LOVE! Bringing world-class performances to the area is so rewarding. The Golden Dragon Acrobats will be presenting Cirque D'Or; representing the best of a time honored tradition that began more than 27 centuries ago. The company has traveled around the world to all 50 states and to over 65 countries performing their awesome feats of athleticism. Acrobatics, exciting costumes, traditional dance, ancient and contemporary music, and theatrical techniques all combine to present a show of exquisite skill and beauty. And I mean exquisite. Awe inspiring! Watch the video for spine tingling and jaw-dropping proof!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRHoJZMJZxo

Yours in dance,

A Holiday Gift for Festival Dance

2009-12-15T09:15:00.000-08:00

As you know, Festival Dance & Performing Arts does a lot to promote the arts and dance in our area. In fact, we touch the lives of 15,000 people annually with our performances, dance courses, outreach programs, community shows, and community involvement. As always, the key to our success is our broad reach - and our scope of programs. In other words, people. The more people that know about what we do, the more funding we receive and the more lives we can touch.

Would you like to give a gift to Festival Dance this holiday season?

You can! Just forward this blog post to a friend (or two or three) to introduce them to Festival Dance. Who knows? Maybe they will enjoy what they read as much as you do, and they will become a new fan of our programs.

Happy Holidays!

Yours In Dance............

Give the Gift of Dance!

2009-12-10T16:12:00.000-08:00

Pick up a coupon for 50% off dance classes and give the gift of dance to a loved one! Festival Dance is offering new students half off tuition in January. After the first month, cost will be $32/month for Kinderdance and Pre-Ballet and $36/month for all other classes.

Most parents and grandparents spend above $50 for holiday gifts for their loved ones. But what about giving 'the gift of dance'? One hour of dance every week, is only $36 per month. You could give three months of dance for under $100!

We accept new students through January. Classes begin the week of Jan. 11. Classes will run through May with a recital in May. Coupons are available to use in a gift card for a holiday gift for your loved one.

Festival Dance is the area's largest and oldest dance school. Our mission is to offer quality dance instruction in a warm, supportive atmosphere. We have been in residence at the University of Idaho since 1974 and have received many state and national awards and grants for our work with young people. Festival Dance teaches dance in Moscow, Lewiston, Lapwai, Troy, and Genesee.

Free Holiday/Open House Performance!

2009-12-10T16:08:00.000-08:00

Holiday Open House Performance
Thursday, Dec. 17 at 6:30pm
UI PEB Studio 110
At Festival Dance, we like to celebrate the holidays with our free Holiday Open House Performance that is an exciting chance for Festival Dance Academy students to show off dances and steps they have learned in a casual recital format. UI studio 110 converts to a curtained "theatre" and provides a great venue for this free event that is open to the public. The show starts at 6:30 and will include tap, jazz, hip hop, Celtic, and ballet soloists/duets. Join us for entertainment and refreshments!

Our Sponsor - KLEW-TV is doing great things!

2009-12-08T17:00:00.000-08:00

2009-12-04T13:11:00.000-08:00

Festival Dance is proud to present:

The Nutcracker! Eugene Ballet, Dec. 6th,
3:00 at the Beasley Coliseum

Call 800-325-7328 for tickets! (We're sold out at the Festival Dance office.)

It is because of the generosity of our local sponsors that we can bring world-class events to our area. Please support the businesses that support the arts in our community!

Our show is sponsored by:

NWPR

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSPpWIKTqCg

The Lewiston Tribune and the Moscow-Pullman Daily News

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ab88nY9wcHk

Tri-State Outfitters

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QTqMZRET4I

And KLEW -TV

(Video coming soon)

2009-11-30T17:42:00.000-08:00

Join Us! Festival Dance Academy students present a Living Window Display in the Moscow Chamber of Commerce Window, Wednesday, December 2nd, 5:00-8:00. Plan to stop by!
This display will add to downtown holiday ambiance and will provide an exciting experience for dancers and community members! Free hot chocolate and a candy cane will be available to those who stop by. Dancers will pose in costume in the lavishly decorated Chamber of Commerce display window facing Main Street. The window will depict a warm holiday scene that includes atree and sparkling lights! Dancers pose beautifully and do repetitive movement/poses that give the effect of the animated holiday window displays from the past. There will be chairs on the side walk, holiday music, and hot chocolate and candy canes as long as they last. Bring your whole family to see this spectacular event! (Young children LOVE to interract with the dancers!)
Go to http://www.youtube.com/festivaldance to view a video of the window display. Go to http://www.festivaldance.org/ for more information about Festival Dance & Performing Arts.
Come downtown to see the City of Moscow's Light Up the Night Parade! Rumor has it that this is the largest holiday parade yet! It starts at 7:00, Wednesday, December 2nd. See you there!

Living Window Display - Join Us!

2009-11-09T15:56:00.000-08:00

At Festival Dance, December is Very Busy...so mark your calendar now!
Since the holidays are fast approaching, we want you to know about all our activities planned for December, so you can plan your holiday entertainment!

1. Festival Dance has rented the Moscow Chamber of Commerce window to create a "living" holiday display using Festival Dance students to help promote The Nutcracker show, and to add holiday charm to lovely downtown Moscow. The "Living Window Display" will be from 5:00-8:00 December 2nd. Be sure to stop by the window to have a look at this incredible event! Click here to watch a video. Seriously - you gotta have a look at how neat this is! Festival Dance will also participate in the "Light Up the Night'" parade in a decorated truck! Read Below for more info.

2. Festival Dance is giving our area an early Christmas present! We are sponsoring a full production of Eugene Ballet's critically acclaimed Nutcracker for the first time in five years! Click here to watch a video. Don't miss this elaborate ballet December 6, 3:00 at the WSU Beasley Coliseum. Tickets are $25 for adults, students and children are only $16. To make the show even more festive, the professional Eugene Ballet dancers such as the Sugarplum Fairy will be available in the lobby after the performance to meet and greet audience members. Children can get their pictures taken with the characters, and receive finger puppets as a holiday gift from Festival Dance.

3. We like to celebrate the holidays with our free Holiday Open House Performance that is an exciting chance for dancers to show off dances and steps they have learned in a casual recital format on December 17th at 6:30. UI studio 110 converts to a curtained "theatre" and provides a great venue for this free event that is open to the public. Join us for entertainment and refreshments. Read below for more info!

Take it from me, you will enjoy every event we have planned! Get Ready, Get Set, Go!

The Nutcracker - Eugene Ballet

2009-11-04T12:30:00.000-08:00

Watch video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aM0VSLiz0ok&feature=player_embedded#

Hugely entertaining to young and old alike, this lavishly staged, costumed, and beautifully danced ballet will fulfill your every expectation and more. Welcome the holiday season with this magical production designed by former Disney artist, DonCarson. The enchanting story of Clara’s night-time dream of visiting The Kingdom of the Sweets with a life-sized nutcracker soldier is magically performed with sophistication and whimsy.

Because of the lavish sets and costumes, and the family friendly traditional story, this is a performance to bring your children, grand-children, and friends! Children will receive a gift of a holiday finger puppet as well as a chance to meet and take a picture with the characters after the show!

This is a great holiday experience you don't want to miss!

See you there!

Thank You, Advertisers!

2009-10-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

A video that features all the businesses that advertise in our gorgeous season program!
Thank You!

What About These Dancers?

2009-10-22T17:26:00.000-07:00

Tapestry Dance: The Souls of Our Feet. Phenomenal!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QfSWrDli_8

Wish we could bring them in for our 2010-2011 season......

Two videos to bring you happiness!

2009-10-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

After you watch the video below, which will give you a laugh, an ongoing smile, and an appreciation for human ingenuity, be sure to click the link below the embedded video to watch a touching video about an autistic basketball player.

Remember, the only live person is the guy in the middle, the rest of them are puppets!

This next video is so touching. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZtU676jA_k

See you at the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet this Sunday at 3:00!

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet

2009-10-05T14:18:00.001-07:00

Look at this picture. Really look at it. Look at the arch of her back reflecting the arch of her foot. Look at his low, controlled position. Amazing isn't it? And this is just a picture! The show this Sunday promises to amaze you - and enlighten you.

October 11, 3:00
WSU Beasley Coliseum
Tickets $25-$14
509.335.1514 or 208.883.DANS

www.festivaldance.org for video

Audiences world wide have been charmed with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet and its fresh, dynamic blend of contemporary dance. The Joyce Theatre in New York City, theKennedy Center, and foreign venues in Canada, France, and Italy have been host to this vibrant company. The performance will include “Sue’s Leg,” by Twyla Tharp, one of America’s most versatile and popular choreographers whose works range from pieces set for Joffrey Ballet and American Ballet Theatre to the dances for the movie, “Hair.” “Sue's Leg,” with music by Fats Waller, takes balletic moves and hides them under vaudeville, tap, and swing. Also on the program is the crowd-pleasing, opticalillusionist piece “Noir Blanc,” by Moses Pendleton of Momix and Pilobolus fame, amazing audiences with an other-worldly quality of dancers cavorting in outer space.

I'll see you there!

Lion King Performance at the Fair!

2009-09-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

This video is of the Lion King performance at the Latah County Fair. So cute!

Bird Music is lovely!

2009-09-24T09:30:00.000-07:00

This is a video of music made by birds on a wire..... you've just got to watch it. 'nuff said.
http://vimeo.com/6428069

Animoto.com

2009-09-23T09:43:00.001-07:00

Inspiring Video of West Park Elementary

2009-09-23T09:36:00.001-07:00

The above video is touching and inspiring. The students at West Park Elementary are featured learning, interracting, experiencing, and enjoying school at West Park. I applaud the educators that are having such an impact on our youth!

(Plus, West Park 3rd graders get to attend Festival Dance Youthreach shows every year, thanks to Principal Marineau's dedication to arts education.)

2009-09-17T17:59:00.000-07:00

Tickets On Sale for
Aspen Santa Fe Ballet and the
Great Performances Series 2009-2010

Tickets are now on sale for the October 11th 3pm matinee performance of Aspen Santa Fe Ballet at the Beasley Coliseum in Pullman. The performance by this international touring dance company will kick off the Festival Dance Great Performances 2009-2010 Series. Aspen Santa Fe Ballet will present a three dance program with styles ranging from jazz influenced, “Sue’s Leg” by award winning choreographer, Twyla Tharp, to a Momix style dance entitled, “Noir Blanc,” by Moses Pendleton, and “Red Sweet,” a contemporary dance piece with a European twist by Finnish choreographer , Jorma Elo. Sponsors for the performance are KLEW-TVCBS, Northwest Public Radio, New England Foundation for the Arts, National Endowment for the Arts, WESTAF, NEA-American Masterpieces, and Idaho Commission on the Arts

Tickets priced at $14 to $25 are available at the Beasley Coliseum, Festival Dance Office, and all Tickets West outlets. Discount tickets for groups of 10 or more are available through Festival Dance, 883-3267.

Discount subscription tickets for 3 or 4 events of the Festival Dance Great Performances Series are also available through the Festival Dance office. The series includes Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Oct. 11; “The Nutcracker,” Dec 6; “Cirque d’Or”, Golden Dragon Acrobats, March 28th ; and Manding Jata from West Africa on April 18th.

Information about Festival Dance and Performing Arts online at http://www.festivaldance.org/

See you at the ballet!

Uniquely Palouse

2009-09-03T17:44:00.000-07:00

Uniquely Palouse is a magazine for those who enjoy the Palouse lifestyle. And I love it! There's a great article about a WSU entrepreneur, a bed & breakfast, Bagott Motors, and the Moscow Arts Commission... not to mention the gorgeous full-color advertisements of local businesses. Pick one up for a lovely magazine to read with your morning coffee - then display it on your coffee table!

This Kid Has Got THE MOVES!

2009-08-31T21:16:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cU_AH4MrWWw

I'm thoroughly impressed by this young boy's passion for dance! Click the link- it's worth it.

Time to Register!

2009-08-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

Monday, August 31
4:30-6:30 in the Moscow Studio

5:30-6:30 in the Genesee Studio

Festival Dance Academy's Open House and Registration Day is a time for you to ask quesitons, take a tour, and get to know us! This is a great time to meet teachers and ask any questions you might have. We are very excited to be beginning a new year of dance! Many students have already registered, and we appreciate your early registrations. Our teachers are looking forward to another wonderful year watching the students blossom into lovely dancers.

We encourage anyone who has not registered yet to do so soon. Our website - www.festivaldance.org has all the information you need, but if you do have a question, please don't hesitate to contact us.We are also very fortunate to have 1 Dance Stop boutique at our event. Jandi Utzman is the owner of 1 Dance Stop and she will bring stock and take orders via email. www.1dancestop.net email her at dance110@verizon.net.

Also, we recommend Empire Dance in Spokane. www.empiredanceshop.com Send this email to a friend to help us get the word out! If you know of anyone interested in dance, please let them know about us. Classes begin Tuesday, September 8th.

A Featured Neighbor!

2009-08-25T20:00:00.000-07:00

Lilypad Place is a web neighborhood that provides useful, helpful information in a friendly environment. Cindy Barnhart is a featured neighbor!

Cindy Barnhart is the executive director of Festival Dance and Performing Arts Association, an energetic not-for-profit organization that nurtures the art of dance. Cindy is passionate about dance in all forms, and her passion began when she took her first ballet class as a 4 year old, from none other than Festival Dance! She believes that dance cultivated her sense of humor, creativity, and ability to walk in high heels. She has the distinct pleasure of managing an excellent group of dance instructors at Festival Dance Academy, and hopes to provide dancers with the grace and confidence to achieve their dreams........

Cindy believes her success is attributed to an innate curiosity of all things, a sense of humor, a willingness to look silly at times, a persistent positive attitude, a polite interest in people, and clean hair.......

To read more, go to http://www.lilypadplace.com/featured-neighbor/

Farmer's Market Performances- Success!

2009-08-17T13:53:00.000-07:00

This summer, Festival Dance had the opportunity to perform at the Moscow Farmer's Market five different Saturday mornings. We must give a big thanks to the City of Moscow, and the Moscow Arts Commission's director, Kathleen Burns, as well as Jared and others that helped make the Farmer's Market entertainment a success.

Our dancers performed youth hip hop, lyrical jazz, a mini-musical, tap, Celtic, and read poetry for the crowd. I could not have been more proud!
(See Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy in picture left.)

Our performers are a testiment to the high quality classes we provide, and the benefits one derives from a good dance education.

Yours in dance,

HPERD is Awarded Grant to Study Important Children's Health Issues

2009-08-04T16:33:00.000-07:00

THE PROJECT: Professor Jeff Seegmiller and his colleagues in the College of Education Department of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (HPERD) are studying critical children’s health issues in hopes of making important discoveries about bone health. The team has been awarded an $11,217.85 grant from the Institute of Translational Health Sciences (ITHS) to conduct a pilot study titled “Pre- and Postintervention Measures of Bone Strength Among 7- to 12-Year-Old Girls.” The pilot grant is designed to help investigators obtain proof of concept for preparing and supporting full-scale grant applications.
“This study will help us gain better understanding of the impact on bone density in children when they participate in activities, and what types of activities can prevent future bone problems, like osteoporosis and fractures,” said Seegmiller.

Click Here for more: http://www.uidaho.edu/ed/research/featurestories/HPERD.aspx

Jr. Dance Idaho a Fantastic Show!!

2009-07-22T17:36:00.001-07:00

The Jr. Dance Idaho workshop showcase performance just ended, and I rushed up here to post a blog about the success of it. Then I thought my gushing over it would sound self-serving, since I am, after all, the one in charge. So instead of going on and on about how incredibly darling the show was, I will recognize each young dancer by giving them a 'nickname' that sums up their personality attribute during this workshop.

Megan-the quick
Hannah-the graceful
Cass-the mature
Isabella- the spritely
Jailyn- the dreamy
Alex- the funny
Aidan- the lovely

Yours in Dance,

Festival Dance Annual Report

2009-07-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

Wow. Reflecting on FY09 makes me proud and frankly, amazed. We do a lot for the communities we serve, and we are definitely fulfilling our mission!

Dedicated to the Arts, Our Youth and Our Quality of Life

Public Performances including Great Performances Series – 6 performances
Great Performances Series: Three performances by touring companies and three original self-produced performances, and two performances by Missoula Children’s Theatre.
Total audiences: 3,780

· One performance by Momix Dance Company – October 2008
· Three performances of “A Magical Peter Pan Christmas” - December 2008
· One performance of “Swan Lake” by Eugene Ballet - March 2009
· One performance by Ache Brasil – April 2009
· Two performances of “Alice in Wonderland” by Missoula Children’s Theatre, - April 2009.

Free Programs for Local Youth – 26 programs
Free programs for schools reaching 3,460 students from 13 area communities:
Moscow, Troy, Potlatch, Lapwai, Kendrick, Tensed, Juliaetta, and Genesee, Idaho and Pullman, Colton, Uniontown, Garfield, and Palouse, Washington.

· 6 Youthreach programs by professional companies: Rainbow Dance Theatre, (3 programs,) Eugene Ballet, (1 program,) and Ache Brasil (2 programs.)
· 16 Discover Dance classes taught by professional instructors in African, Jazz Dance, for Moscow, Genesee, and Lapwai 3rd through 6th graders.
· 3 Drama Workshops taught by Missoula Children’s Theatre professional actors
· Hip Hop/Jazz Master Class taught by Rainbow Dance Theatre co-artistic director, Darryl Thomas for intermediate and advanced students.
· Ballet Master Class taught by Rainbow Dance Theatre co-artistic director, Valerie Bergman for intermediate and advanced students.

Festival Dance Academies – classes 12 months of the year in 5 locations

Schools in Moscow, Troy, Lewiston, Genesee and Lapwai – 210 participants
Classes for ages 4 through adult in kinderdance, preballet, ballet, jazz, tap, and Irish Dance

New Program: Building Cultural Bridges- Nez Perce Tribe/Lapwai and the Palouse

With the assistance of grants from the Nez Perce Education Fund, Inland Northwest Community Foundation and the Idaho Commission on the Arts, Festival Dance was able to work cooperatively with the Nez Perce Tribe and Lapwai School District to do the following:

· Teach ballet and jazz summer classes as part of Lapwai Summer School Program
· Establish ongoing ballet instruction for beginning students in Lapwai.
· Bring educational programs by Rainbow Dance Theatre and Ache Brasil to Lapwai Elementary School.
· Cooperate with Nez Perce dancers, high school students and Palouse Drum to bring a Building Bridges educational program about Nez Perce dance and music for students of McDonald Elementary school.

Summer Programs – 5 workshopsSummer programs for beginners, intermediate and advanced students – 88 participants

· Dance Idaho! Special intensive training in ballet, jazz and modern dance with guest teacher from Eugene Ballet: for intermediate and advanced dancers.
· Imagination Arts: workshop for beginning and intermediate dancers.
· Princess Ballet workshop for young beginning ballet students in Moscow
· Celtic Dance Workshop for all ages in beginning Irish Dance held in Moscow
· Hip Hop workshop held in Moscow

Collaborations and community service – Reaching 3,800 community members

· Six programs by Festival Dance students at area malls in Moscow and Lewiston.
· Two performances at Latah County Fair.
· One Imagination Arts performance at Friendship Square, Moscow
· One performance of Jazz Hip Hop at Friendship Square, Moscow
· One Workshop Showcase public performance by Dance Idaho students
· One performance at Eastside Car Show –jazz and hip hop
· Two programs of an original dance version of “Wizard of Oz” by students of Festival Dance Academy: one at Lewis Clark State College and one at Univ. of Idaho Hartung Theatre
· Dance recital program, “A Night on the Town” at Hartung Theatre in Moscow.
· Performance by Genesee dance students at Genesee Jr. Miss program.
· Champagne Benefit Fund Raiser at University Inn Best Western, Moscow
· Irish Dance performance at Lewis Clark Center for the Arts Irish Tea, Lewiston
· Jazz dance performance as part of Kenworthy Performing Arts Center Anniversary Celebration.
· Dance performance at East City Park as part of Moscow Community Walk
· Holiday Open House program at UI Dance Studio, Moscow
· Valentine Dance Program at Lewis Clark State College

TOTAL AUDIENCES: 11,638 INCLUDING YOUTH AUDIENCES: 4,435

Dance Idaho Music Video

2009-07-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

Dance Idaho 2009 Showcase Performance!

2009-07-15T11:14:00.000-07:00

The Dance Idaho 2009 workshop is taking place this week! The dancers are loving it and I am very impressed with how hard they work everyday. Valerie Bergman and Darryl Thomas of Rainbow Dance Theatre are our guest instructors and they are FABULOUS!

There is a free showcase performance this Saturday, the 18th at 2:00 in the PEB. Join us for a great show!

Belgium Central Railway Station Mass Dance Inspiration

2009-06-23T16:57:00.000-07:00

I saw this a few months ago, and was astounded by it, and tried to keep it a secret because I was determined to stage something like this with Festival Dance students.... But now it has been seen by millions of people on YouTube, so I thought I'd better let you know about it - if you don't already. This group "join in" performance is brilliant! What FUN!

In Antwerp, Belgium at the Central Railway Station, on a Monday morning, with no warning to the passengers passing through the station, a recording of Julie Andrews came over the public address system. As the bemused passengers watch in amazement . . . .

(Don't assume it is unrehearsed. It took 200 dancers and 4 weeks of preparation, but the effect is for you to decide)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EYAUazLI9k&annotation_id=annotation_72265&feature=iv

Summer Workshops Available!

2009-06-09T10:58:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here! As we all decide how we are going to squeeze all the fun summer activities into our schedule - don't forget about our many workshops! The dancers that participate in our workshops learn creativity, musicality, social skills, confidence, technical dance skills, and more. Why not supplement your child's existing daycare arrangements with some dance workshops, which are an economical way to add some variety to your child's day while you are at work. We have the ever popular Princess Ballet Workshop (it's next week!), Mommy & Me, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet sessions, Celtic Dance, Acting, Lyrical, Choreography and lots of varying times and dates from which to choose. Questions? Call me at 883-3267 and I'd be happy to help you find the perfect workshops for your child!

Incredible Performance of Swan Lake

2009-05-30T16:37:00.000-07:00

This is a breathtaking video of the Great Chinese State Circus dancing "Swan Lake" sent to me by my friend Joann Evans.
It's the chills that run up my spine when I see talent and beauty such as this performance that keep me in love with dance and the arts! Such skill! I'm in awe. This is one of the most amazing things I have ever seen...

The Lion King Summer Workshop!

2009-05-06T18:24:00.000-07:00

The Lion King: Imagination Arts Workshop is this July 27th-31st with a performance at the Farmer's Market on August 1st! We're so excited about this wonderful mini musical! Go to www.festivaldance.org to learn more.

Ache Brasil Tonight!

2009-04-23T06:46:00.000-07:00

Tonight's show of Ache Brasil (pronounced aw- CHAY braw- ZIL) Will have something for everyone - dance, music, acrobatics, martial arts, song- and dancing at the end of the show! Call me for details! 883-DANS or pick up your tickets at Paradise Ridge CD's or at the door!7:30 Moscow High School Auditorium$12-$18

Alice In Wonderland Auditions and Show!

2009-04-13T11:40:00.000-07:00

Open Auditions! ‘Alice In Wonderland’

By Missoula Children’s Theatre

Brought to you by Festival Dance & Performing Arts

FREE Audition, Rehearsals, Costumes, Sets and Production for Area Kids!

Open auditions for Missoula Children’s Theatre’s production of ‘Alice In Wonderland’ will be held on Monday, April 13th at 4:00 at the Moscow High School Auditorium.

No experience is necessary, and ages K- 12 are encouraged to audition for the 50 parts. Rehearsals will be Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 3:45-8:15. Not all parts rehearse everyday. (Lead characters begin rehearsing Monday night 6-8:00 pm.) Dress rehearsal Saturday AM.

A great chance for area youth to have the fun and experience of performing in a professional production of children’s theater. The final shows will be Saturday, April 18, 3:00 and 7:00 at the Moscow High School Auditorium. Adults $6, Children $4

Swan Lake A Huge Success!

2009-03-12T11:58:00.001-07:00

Swan Lake was absolutely gorgeous and the dancers awed the audience!

Jerry McCollum said, "My first ballet brought tears to my eyes – the sets, staging and costuming were magical. The dancers were uniformly excellent, with the prima ballerina being wonderfully graceful and strong. I was entranced with the entire production. It was like watching flowers bloom in front of me to the music of Tchaikovsky.

What a great introduction to the world of ballet! Many thanks!"
Jerry says it well. What more can I add?

I love this job!

Ticket availability update!

2009-03-06T13:34:00.000-08:00

We're happy to let you know that tickets are selling FAST! We've sold out of tickets in the Festival Dance office. BUT the Beasley Box office still has plenty of great seats left! :o)

The show promises to be excellent. Don't miss it! Call to get your tickets set aside for you to pick up at the Will Call window. 335-1514

See you at the ballet!

Swan Lake- The Story

2009-03-04T11:04:00.000-08:00

Swan Lake- Sunday, March 8th, 3:00 pm at the WSU Beasley Coliseum

Tchaikovsky’s brilliant score and the rich beauty and precision of the dancers have placed “Swan Lake” among the most famous and loved works in the history of classical ballet. Eugene Ballet, one of the leading ballet companies in the west will bring this great work to the stage.

THE STORY: The story of “Swan Lake,” has all the ingredients of a magical fantasy mixed with a great love story and a battle of good vs. evil. Souring music, beautiful costumes, and elaborate scenery all set the stage for the story of a Prince’s love for an enchanted Princess who, with the ladies of her court, are eternally imprisoned as swans under the spell of Von Rothbart, an evil sorcerer. The spell dooms them to be swans by day and maidens by night. Only the true love of a prince can break the spell. The Prince Siegfried does fall in love with the Swan Queen, but Von Rothbart hatches a plot to get the Prince to betray her by substituting a look alike Black Swan to entice him. Go to: http://www.festivaldance.org/ to have a sneak peek of the show.

I'll see you at the Ballet!

Swan Lake

2009-02-25T19:33:00.000-08:00

Swan Lake

2009-02-25T14:08:00.000-08:00

Lots of great stuff happening at Festival Dance! First-
Swan Lake- The most popular ballet in the world! Sunday, March 8th, 3:00 pm at the WSU Beasley Coliseum

Watch our videos here: http://www.youtube.com/festivaldance (Look for Swan Lake.) In fact, you should subscribe to our videos on youtube so you'll be notified when a new one posts.

Tickets: $14-$25
Available at: WSU Beasley Coliseum Box Office – (509) 335-1514- http://www.beasley.wsu.edu/
Festival Dance & Performing Arts Association – (208) 883-3267- http://www.festivaldance.org/
TickesWest Outlets and AT THE DOOR!

We will honor our local sponsors - Gritman Medical Center and Idaho Public Television with plaques from stage and backstage passes to our invitation only reception following the show. We couldn't bring in these big productions without the help of our sponsors.

The story of “Swan Lake,” has all the ingredients of a magical fantasy mixed with a great love story and a battle of good vs. evil. Souring music, beautiful costumes, and elaborate scenery all set the stage for the story of a Prince’s love for an enchanted Princess who, with the ladies of her court, are eternally imprisoned as swans under the spell of Von Rothbart, an evil sorcerer. The spell dooms them to be swans by day and maidens by night. Only the true love of a prince can break the spell. The Prince Siegfried does fall in love with the Swan Queen, but Von Rothbart hatches a plot to get the Prince to betray her by substituting a look alike Black Swan to entice him.

Kamri Sams, Anna Sobczyk, Taylor Robertson, Tegan Campbell, Olivia Alexander, Sonia Isenberg, and Samantha Gibbons from Festival Dance Academies in Moscow, Genesee, and Lewiston will also perform in the ballet as heralds and ladies of the court.

Check out our new website! Jarel Remick is our new website developer and he's done a great job! If you haven't already, go have a look. It is professional and user friendly. Thank you Jarel! http://www.jremick.com/

Martin Luther King Jr. Day- No dance classes

2009-01-17T18:02:00.000-08:00

Remember - no Festival Dance classes on Monday. Also, there looks like some great things will be on tv (CNN) to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday.

Wow! I'm watching CNN and 'The O'Bama Express' and I'm so interested to see the inauguration on Tuesday. After the Festival Dance board meeting on Tuesday, I'm going to the inauguration party at the 1912 Building. What an incredible milestone for our country! The inauguration of Barack O'Bama is touching everyone across the world- even the director of Festival Dance! :o)

New in 2009!

2009-01-10T20:34:00.000-08:00

I wish you all could know how excited we are for the new year for Festival Dance! We have so many new ideas to implement.... Like a new website design, mini videos to communicate to the students, parents, and faculty; a fun new class - Acting for Dancers, and more and more! Coming this spring is Swan Lake, Missoula Children's Theatre - Rumlple Stilkstein, Ache Brazil, Wizard of Oz, and our recitals in May. Please, as always, contact us anytime if you have an idea, a way to improve your dance experience, have a question or just want to chat. Have a great 2009!!

Nez Perce Dance & Drum Show

2008-12-08T09:36:00.000-08:00

The Nez Perce Dance & Drum show at McDonald Elementary School in Moscow was a wonderful event! It was part of our Building Cultural Bridges program with Lapwai, Id. The students got to watch traditional Nez Perce dance and learn about the regalia. There was an informative question and answer period afterwards. The students even got to get up and dance with the dancers!! Such a great time!!

Living Window Display Music Video

2008-12-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

Living Window Display 2008

2008-12-04T20:15:00.000-08:00

The Living Window Display was a huge success! It was enchanting! The dancers did a wonderful job of entertaining the crowds - and themselves. :o)

A Magical Peter Pan Christmas!

2008-12-04T19:22:00.000-08:00

MOMIX was a hit! I haven't written a post since before MOMIX because - well because, it's just been VERY BUSY at Festival Dance. :o) We're working on A Magical Peter Pan Christmas and it is coming along brilliantly. I am very pleased with our casting: Siri Hammond is a wonderful Peter, and all of the key parts are absolutely wonderful!! Shows are December 13, 3:00 & 7:00 and Dec. 14, 3:00 at the Hartung Theatre. Tickets on sale at Paradise Ridge CDs in downtown Moscow. I'll post more later. For now, here are some pictures.

Fragrance Festival!

2008-11-22T10:35:00.000-08:00

Macy's Fragrance Festival Was Graced By Our Dancers!

MAD ABOUT MOMIX!

2008-09-30T18:46:00.001-07:00

Whoa! MOMIX will be here in fourteen days!! I am terrified and excited at the same time. Momix is an incredibly fascinating show - so I'm excited about seeing them live here on the Palouse. But I am terrified that the advertising we are doing won't reach everyone. (I realize that no marketing plan can reach everyone, but I intend to try!) MOMIX is truly a spectacle and it is a real miracle that they agreed to perform for us. I assure you, they are getting so popular, they will soon stop performing for the out-of-the-way markets like our area. I wish everyone could understand how magical, awe-inspiring, and artistic the show is - because no one would willingly miss it.

This video will give you an idea about the show.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_igxPpb4O4
http://www.festivaldance.org/content/headers/momix.wmv

Tickets are selling briskly and I hope you've got yours! See you at MOMIX!

Yours In Dance..........

The cutest High School Musical show ever!

2008-08-01T13:58:00.000-07:00

I just came up to the office from studio 110 after our 'High School Musical' open house/dress rehearsal and am so proud of what we've accomplished! The show was dazzling. It is when performances miraculously come together that I really appreciate the ability of people to surprize you. These little dancers were working hard all week, they were nervous, and hot, and well........ just wonderful. The performance went off without a hitch. They are ready to do the show tomorrow at 9:00 at the Farmer's Market, much to my relief. :o) Wal-Mart donated the basket-balls that the dancers use in the first number, "Get Your Head In The Game," and they will get to take home the basket-ball that their classmates have signed, a basketball jersey they decorated with glitter glue, and their ribbon hairpiece they made during the craft segment of the workshop.

This summer tradition, the Imagination Arts Workshop, is one of the most worthwhile projects we do. I'm so proud of our little dancers!

See you tomorrow morning-
Yours in dance........

Crusin' at the Eastside video!

2008-07-30T16:46:00.001-07:00

This is a music video of the 50s event.... It's so cute!

Dance Idaho Music Video

2008-07-30T16:18:00.001-07:00

This is a music video of the week of Dance Idaho 2008.

Advertise with Festival Dance and Grow Your Business!

2008-07-02T11:11:00.001-07:00

This is a video created especially for our advertisers. Thank you for advertising in our gorgeous Great Performances Series program last season! This year, not only will our season program be gorgeous, but advertisers get to be featured in a video (designed just like the one here) that is posted on our website and on our blog.

Festival Dance Thanks Our Contributors!

2008-06-21T12:02:00.001-07:00

Nationalism!

2008-04-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

Peru Negro was a stirring performance, not just for the athleticism and cultural depth, but because the dancers showed the audience the heartfelt national pride they feel for their country. After the show, it was hard to find a dry eye in the audience! They brought out the Peruvian national flag amid a standing ovation and continuing encores that brought chills to your skin. It was truly an uplifting event. (If you were there, I know you felt it, too!)

The show sponsors, Moscow Hotel & Garden Lounge, and NWPR have made a great impact with Festival Dance. Moscow Hotel & Garden Lounge was Festival Dance's very first corporate sponsor. We are so thankful to them for their generous and ongoing support. Also, I bet you heard about the performance on NWPR! Lots of people let me know that they heard about our event from the radio.

The school show the following day brought at least 50 students up on the stage to dance with the artists! It was fantastic! (See picture.)

Hey- coming next are our spring recitals! Check with our website to attend one of our four spring recitals. The theme is "Movies, Musicals, and Magic!" I know I sound cheesy when I say this- but it really is magical to see the dancers on stage - entrancing the audience. It is a form of magic.

Yours in dance.........

A Swinging Time!

2008-02-13T12:40:00.000-08:00

Wow. I loved Swing Kings. The whole audience loved it. Mia Swartwood, our Ballet Mistress, told me that the first half of classical ballet variations were some of the best she'd ever seen. (That's saying a lot! Mia is a perfectionist.) And then the second half- well, it was so fun to watch. There were so many funny moments, scenarios that got you giggling; it was a really good time for everyone who braved the icy, terrible weather.

Perhaps one of the most memorable things that I will never forget, is the incredible mini-burger/soda shop experience afterward in the Cougar Lounge. (This is the after party/reception that we hold after every performance at the Beasley for our subscribers, sponsors, board members, and the performers. Incredibly, the receptions are catered by Gerald Henry, a board member, and Glenda Albright, (better known as Jonell's mom). But all the board members help out.

The funniest thing was watching board member Roberta McPherson slinging burgers and all the board members standing in an efficient line assembling fully loaded mini-burgers! It was entertaining and delicious! And all the more so because they were so lovingly prepared by our wonderful board. There were the mini-burgers, fries, condiments, and root beer floats to carry on the Swing Kings/soda shop theme. It was so neat.

The Beasley was packed for the school show the next day! The students and teachers loved the educational performace. Some kids got to go up on stage and learn the 'Lindy Hop.' Did you know that the Lindy Hop was named after Charles Lindburgh, after his flight (hop) across the Atlantic? It became all the rage...

Next we have Peru Negro - 30 dancers and musicians from Peru. This job is so great.

Keep dancin'.............

Lots to look forward to!

2008-01-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!! It's a snow day and the sun is shining and the holidays are over. But we at Festival Dance have a lot to look forward to this spring semester.

First, let me update you about the success of the holiday show, Nutcracker Suite & Celtic Treats....... It was great! Wonderful! Stunning! Brilliant! Fun!! The show went well and provided the high quality performance opportunity for our academy students that are so important to our mission of 'Bringing the Arts to the People and the People to the Arts.'

Tickets sold extremely well, and the personal pride and satisfaction felt by everyone involved was worth all the long hours. The show was aired on Idaho Public Television channel 8 on the 27th, 28th, & 29th and the 2nd, 3rd, & 4th. I hope you were able to catch it.

Coming soon we have Swing Kings! February 10th, 3:00 Beasley Coliseum. The Eugene Ballet will perform beautiful ballet selections and then finish off the performance with the new crowd pleaser - Swing Kings! Jitterbug, Jive, and Jazz will have the audience dancing in their seats! For tickets, go to http://beasley.wsu.edu/calendar/event.aspx?event=184 or call Festival Dance at 883-DANS.

Spring Specials:
50% OFF- We have a special for 'half off for one month for new students' in the Moscow, Saturday morning Kinderdance class. 9:45-10:30. Just refer to the offer when enrolling.

50% OFF- We have a special for 'half off for one month for new students' all classes in Lewiston at our LCSC location and American Legion location. Just refer to the offer when enrolling.

FREE- Festival Dance will offer classes in Kinderdance (intro to dance including basic steps and creative dance), Beginning Ballet, Jazz, and Hip Hop at Troy Elementary School starting in January. A grant from the Latah County Arts & Culture Committee will provide free classes for the first month with payment of a $15 registration fee. After the first month, cost will be $32/month for Kinderdance and Ballet and $36/month for Jazz and Hip Hop. (Enrollment for the free classes does not obligate you to continue.)

No classes on Martin Luther King Day.

Have a great 2008 and keep dancing......................

Showtime is nearing!

2007-12-14T11:47:00.000-08:00

It's really astonishing. I don't mean this in any negative way, but it's really astonishing how excellent the upcoming show is. We've worked hard, been creative, planned, staged, produced, discussed, rehearsed, loaded, unloaded, built, hung, and etc. so it's not too hard to see why the show is good, but it's way more than good. It's truly astounding. It's beautiful, amazing, magical. The directors and I looked at each other last night after the tech rehearsal and we all said, "I can't believe how great it is." I'm truly astonished.

And proud! The dancers look great, the music is wonderful, the band is ready - showtime is nearing!

Tickets are still available at Paradise Ridge CD's, 117 E. 3rd in downtown Moscow today and tomorrow (Sat.), or you can buy your tickets at the door at the Hartung.

Showtimes: Sat. 3:00 & 7:00, Sun. 3:00 at the Hartung Theatre

The band members and the Sugar Plum Fairy and others will be in the lobby to sign autographs after the shows, and refreshments, DVD's, t-shirts, and roses will be on sale at the intermission.

Don't miss the best show for the holidays! Nutcracker Suite & Celtic Treats!
And keep dancing...............

Make It A Tradition!

2007-12-10T10:14:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling gushy and in the holiday spirit! Especially since the nice snowfall we had last night. I would mention this to my husband, but he is outside snowblowing, so I suspect he doesn't share my sentiment. The pine trees are covered in white, the rolling hills are beautiful, and campus is like a winter wonderland. Along with this holiday sentiment, I'm feeling gushy about our upcoming show.......... The rehearsal Saturday was fantastic! Omie Drawhorn from the Daily News came with a photographer, interviewed the dancers, took pictures, and watched a sneak preview of the show. She is going to do an article about it- so be sure to check the paper this week! Yiipppppeeeeeee!

The dancers were proud to be interviewed by a real reporter and it excited everyone to have a new person to perform for. We also had a great article in the Argonaut, and will have a good one in the Tribune, too. All this publicity does wonders for the confidence of the dancers, not to mention the size of the audience.

In all the hoopla about the show - sometimes the Celtic concert in the first half gets overlooked.... The Celtic Nots from Spokane will be performing an entertaining show accompanied by our Celtic dancers in the first half. If you haven't heard the Celtic Nots, go to their website http://www.celticnots.com/ to hear their music. Katie Saunders, our Celtic instructor has been working hard to present a show that you won't forget! Katie will be doing a solo for the Sunday performance. When you see her dance, you will see an incredibly talented young woman. She will be teaching a world dance class with the UI Dance Program next year. We're very proud of her!

This Wednesday at 7:00am turn your radio to Bull Country to hear me try to describe Nutcracker Suite and Celtic Treats, and Thursday at 7:15am I'll be pitching our show on ZFun! I think the most important part of my job is to convince community members to attend this Holiday Tradition - because it is a great time and also to support the dancers who have worked so hard for their time on stage.

DVD's will be on sale at the show for $25, we will have roses for sale, and refreshments. The dancers will have the opportunity to take professional photographs in costume at dress rehearsal. The coloring contest participants will have their artwork displayed in the Lobby of the Hartung, and the winner of the contest will win 2 free tickets to the show. Stay tuned to find out who won!

Remember, get your tickets now at Paradise Ridge CD's in Moscow.

Attend Nutcracker Suite and Celtic Treats - and make it a tradition!

Keep dancing.......