Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival 2023

Welcome to the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts and the second annual Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival! Last summer’s premiere was an overwhelming success, and we are thrilled to be creating this event again, free to the public, to celebrate dance in northern Nevada. Our mission here at the Pioneer Center is to cultivate exceptional performing arts experiences in our historic venue and throughout the region. We envision a community that is connected, enriched, and inspired through the power of live performance.

When we first conceived of the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival in the fall of 2021, we were just re-opening from the pandemic closure and knew we wanted to create something unique and special to benefit the community in multiple ways. By producing this event, the Pioneer Center is proud to support local dance makers from a range of backgrounds while also spotlighting the life-saving work of SPCA of Northern Nevada, an organization close to our hearts. By presenting the event free to the public, we help ensure that all community members have the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts. By holding the event outdoors on our plaza, we provide our patrons with a new way to appreciate our iconic gold dome and neighboring historic buildings. We sit at the intersection of Reno’s original civic center, and we are honored to activate an entire block in the heart of the city.

The Pioneer Center has been the place where art lives in northern Nevada for 55 years, and we recognize that our continued success has been made possible because of the amazing support from the beautiful, diverse community we are a part of. Thank you to our festival sponsors for your generosity. Thank you to our volunteers for providing exceptional customer service at every event. Thank you to our Board of Directors for your expertise, guidance, and support. Most of all, thank you to our patrons. We are proud to be your home for the performing arts, and we look forward to welcoming you to the Pioneer Center for exciting performances all year long.

Sincerely,

Dennyse Sewell Executive Director

Thank you to our Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival Supporters

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

18

OPENING NUMBER: BALLET FOLKLÓRICO PUEBLO NUEVO

Belén Chávez, directora

KA PĀ HULA ‘O KAWAIOLANOELANIOKĀNE

Kumu Kawaiola Deguilmo, director

GUEST ARTISTS: KATE HUTTER MASON & KEVIN WILLIAMSON

CONTROLLED BURN

SATURDAY AUGUST 19

OPENING NUMBER: NOTE-ABLE MUSIC THERAPY SERVICES

Wendy Firestone, choreographer

ENTITY MOVEMENT

Sierra Taylor-Cline & Brandon Dabu, directors

GUEST ARTISTS: KATE HUTTER MASON & KEVIN WILLIAMSON

NEVADA DANCE COMPANY

Erica & Oliver-Paul Adams, directors

SUNDAY AUGUST 20

OPENING NUMBER: NOTE-ABLE MUSIC THERAPY SERVICES

Wendy Firestone, choreographer

AROUND THE STAGE

Keely Cobb, director

GUEST ARTIST: KATE HUTTER MASON

BALLET FOLKLÓRICO INTERNACIONAL DE RENO Y DANZA

AZTECA AZTLÁN

Mariano Lemus, director

DIRECTOR’S NOTE

I am proud to take on the duties of Festival Director again for this year’s Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival. Last summer was such fun and the opportunity to continue working with a wonderful variety of northern Nevada dance artists remains an honor and inspiration.

The Pioneer Center values arts access, educational opportunities, inclusion, shared experiences, community partnerships, and a wide spectrum of performance creation. This event brings those values into perfect alignment using one of the most powerful expressions of humanity – dance, the language of the heart that transcends words. I believe in the power of dance so much that I have proudly dedicated much of my life’s work to its creation, history, and evolution, not just in Reno but around the world.

Every night of the festival offers a different program. Throughout this weekend, you will experience a wide array of original works created for the stage by people who are your neighbors and friends. As these dance artists share their hearts on that stage, I hope you will open yours. You will see things you recognize and maybe some things you don’t, but what an opportunity for all of us to grow together as a community. Inspiration spreads when it is embraced and shared. Dance is for everybody.

Thank you to our visionary Executive Director, Dennyse Sewell, our supportive Board of Directors, our talented staff and volunteers, our dedicated partners, our Artistic Advisory Review Panel (whom you should read all about later in this playbill), our generous sponsors and artists, and YOU! The Pioneer Center’s story is your story too, and this event is also made to celebrate and reflect our beautiful community.

Congratulations to all of the dance artists creating work at the Pioneer Center tonight! We are proud to be showcasing you and your work!

Adam Cates Festival Director Director of Community Engagement

2023 FESTIVAL GUEST ARTISTS

KATE HUTTER MASON & KEVIN WILLIAMSON

Kate Hutter Mason

Kate Hutter Mason is the owner of Stomping Ground L.A., a community arts space in East L.A. Kate also co-founded the L.A. Contemporary Dance Company in 2005, held the Artistic Directorship from 2005 – 2015, and is Board President today. Additionally, Kate works as Director of Strategic Initiatives for the aerospace design and manufacturing company, Click Bond. Kate is an alumnus of the Walnut Hill School and holds a BFA from USC and an MFA in Dance from Purchase College. Kate has presented her choreography at venues throughout L.A. and was the movement director for the band, Foster the People, on their 2013 Summer Tour. Kate is an adjunct professor at Loyola Marymount University and in her free time, continues to dance, choreograph, ride horses, and be the mother of two awesome kids, Charley and Rory, with her husband Eric. She began her dance training while growing up in Carson City.

Kevin Williamson

Kevin Williamson is an L.A. based dance artist, Lester Horton Award recipient, a Bates Educators Fellow, and Center Theatre Group Sherwood Award Finalist. His choreography has been presented by DanceSpaceProject REDCAT’s NOW Festival, Dixon Place, CounterPulse, LACMA, Austin’s OUTsider Festival, Minnesota Fringe, Diversionary Theater, and the Beijing Dance Festival. Dances for theatre and opera include choreography for Washington National Opera, Atlantic Theatre Company, the Juilliard School, Geffen Playhouse, Yale Theater, and Opera UCLA; and commissioned works for CSULB, LMU, and AMDA. Kevin was a dancing member of David Rousseye/REALITY, Maria Gillespie’s Oni Dance, LA Contemporary Dance Company, Robert Moses’ Kin, and David Gordon’s PickUpPerformance; guest work includes Angelin Preljocai, Julie Taymor, Heidi Duckler, Sebastian Prantl, and Ryan Heffington. He received his BA and MFA in Choreography from UCLA’s Department of World Arts and Cultures/Dance. A certified yoga instructor and Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst, Kevin is registered with Yoga Alliance and ISMETA and is currently Associate Professor of Dance and Chair of the Scripps College Dance Department in Claremont, CA. https://williamsonkevin.com/

KATE HUTTER MASON & KEVIN WILLIAMSON

About the Work – excerpts from NoExpectations

Kate and Kevin will perform excerpts from their full length work NoExpectations , which premiered in May 2023 at Stomping Ground LA. NoExpectations is a piece built on the safety and security that only a lifelong friendship can provide. Being present for someone’s successes, as well as their momentary falls from grace, and supporting them along the way without the promise of romantic companionship is a unique kind of love. Kate and Kevin are best friends as well as creative partners and choreographed this piece to celebrate the freedom of expression, silliness, compassion, and acceptance that they feel when making art or making their way through life together without judgment, the need to filter, and most of all - no expectations. They will perform excerpts as a duet August 18th & 19th and a solo August 20th.

Dancer: WanTing Zhao, Principal at San Francisco Ballet

KA PĀ HULA ‘O KAWAIOLANOELANIOKĀNE

The Hālau Hula (hula school) was founded on July 7, 2012, by Kumu Hula (source of hula)

Kawaiola Deguilmo of Kahului, Maui. The school started with only eleven students of all different ages and backgrounds. Today, the Hālau has grown into a rather large family with students from Reno, Las Vegas, and Hawai’i. Over the years we have had the privilege to perform at many community events and festivals around the west coast United States. The focus of the Hālau is to first educate and perpetuate our culture. The Hālau just recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2022 at Wingfield Park with over one thousand tickets sold to watch the Hālau perform. We have been invited to many hula competitions in California and just recently in Hawai’i. It is an honor to be invited to hula competitions back in Hawai’i and that is a goal we are working towards in the very near future.

Dancers: Ku’ulei Bounds, Aubrey Fanene, Lily Fanene, Kaitlyn Shikada, Sarinah Simons, Divine Smith-Sanchez, Alohalani Sonoda, and Ava Thornton

Musicians: Kumu Kawaiola Deguilmo, Debra Rios (Akiona), and Nancy Puanani Wahineho’okae

Kumu Kawaiola Deguilmo, Director

Kawaiola Noelani Deguilmo was born on the beautiful island of Maui, Hawai’i in the town of Pā’ia. She was raised by her maternal grandparents and credits her grandmother, Elizabeth Kalalealea Paleka-Shaw, for instilling her love for music and all things Hawaiian. She founded hālau Ka Pā Hula ‘O Kawaiolanoelaniokāne of Reno, NV on July 7, 2012. Kawaiola received her ‘ūniki (graduation) rights from Kumu Pamai Tenn in 2014. She has been teaching hula for 11 years in Northern Nevada. Kumu spends her life learning, teaching, and sharing her culture through hula and cultural arts with the greater community of Northern Nevada. She enjoys composing Hawaiian songs and chants, and spending time with family and dear friends.

‘O KAWAIOLANOELANIOKĀNE THE DANCE ARTISTS

Ku’ulei Bounds, born and raised on the Central Coast of California, relocated to Reno two years ago. Ku’ulei started dancing hula at age 2, under four different Kumu Hula. She danced competitively in various West Coast hula competitions, earning 2nd place at the 2002 E Hula Mau Hula Festival in Long Beach as a solo dancer. Ku’ulei is a graphic designer, marketing specialist, and mother of four. She feels fortunate to have found Kumu Kawaiola and her hālau in Reno and perpetuate the Hawaiian culture through Aloha.

Aubrey Fanene was born and raised on the Monterey Peninsula in California and has been living in Reno for the last two years. Aubrey has Native Hawaiian lineage from both of her parents and has been raised observing Hawaiian customs, music, dance, and more since birth. Aubrey began dancing under her uncle, Damian Hanakeawe, and her parents at age 2. She enjoys playing softball, hanging out with her boyfriend and family, and learning other languages. Aubrey recently graduated from McQueen high school and is pursuing a career in Real Estate.

Lily Fanene was born and raised in Salinas, CA and has lived in Reno for two years. Lilly’s parents both have Native Hawaiian blood, and she’s been surrounded by the culture her entire life. Lilly and her sister, Aubrey, began dancing hula and playing Hawaiian music at a young age under the direction of her parents and grandmother. Lilly loves singing and spending time with family, friends, and her boxer-pit puppy. A competitive softball player, Lily has played starting catcher on the Varsity team since freshman year and hopes to attend college on a softball scholarship.

Debra Rios (Akiona) was born on the island of O’ahu, Hawaii in the mid 60’s, and is the youngest of five siblings. Debra’s passion and heart for hula began when she was 9 years old, and eventually led to many opportunities on the island and in Japan with a professional dance career that spanned an 8-year period. Living in Reno for 19 years, Debra has two beautiful children and is thankful to have found an extended family within hula hālau Ka Pā Hula ‘O Kawaiolanoelaniokāne. Kumu Kawaiola is a true blessing, reconnecting us all to our beloved Hawai’i, our home.

Kaitlyn Shikada was born and raised on the island of O’ahu and has been living in Reno for the last 4 years. She fell in love with dancing hula in elementary school and in adulthood found hālau on the mainland to stay connected to her culture. Kaitlyn is also passionate about her career as a Holistic Family Chiropractor and strives to create a healthy community by helping others.

Sarinah Simons is a wildlife biologist and avid outdoorswoman and nature lover. She loves learning about the connections between hula movements and their meaning in relationship to the natural world. She is also an award-winning documentary filmmaker and educator. Sarinah was born and raised in Southern California and has been dancing hula for 13 years. She started dancing under the direction of Kumu Kawaiola Deguilmo-Banner in 2019 and feels so grateful to have found so much community, love, family, culture, and sisterhood in hālau.

‘O KAWAIOLANOELANIOKĀNE THE DANCE ARTISTS

Divine Smith-Sanchez was born in Olongapo City, Philippines. She moved to Reno Nevada with her family when her dad, a merchant marine, was stationed in Fallon in 1996. She has resided in Reno ever since and is now raising her three children, ages 17, 15 and 12. She’s been dancing/practicing hula under the direction of Kumu hula Kawaiola Deguilmo-Banner for almost 8 years. Divine enjoys dancing and learning about the Hawaiian culture and have been blessed with an extended family within the hālau.

Alohalani Sonoda was born on Oahu in the town of Kalihi. Alohalani started dancing under Kumu Kawaiola Deguilmo-Banner in 2016. Doing so, she has felt more connected to her roots since leaving Oahu in 2011. She is a mother of 6, of which 3 are now adults. Her oldest daughter, Lilinoe, danced under Kumu Kawaiola before graduating from Wooster High and leaving for college. Her youngest daughter now carries on the tradition, following in her mother and sister’s footsteps. It has been an absolute blessing since meeting Kumu Kawaiola and her Ohana.

Ava Thornton was born in Reno, NV and has lived here most of her life. She started dancing under Kumu Kawaiola Deguilmo-Banner when she was 13 and has continued the past 4 years, learning about and perpetuating Hawaiian culture. Aside from Hula, Ava is a triple varsity athlete in track and field, cross country, and basketball. She is blessed to have found ohana in the halau and strives to continue educating the Reno-Sparks area about Hawaiian culture.

Nancy Puanani Wahineho’okae is the alaka’i (assistant to the Kumu) of our hālau. She is originally from the island of O’ahu, Hawai’i, and has resided in Reno since 1994. She has been dancing hula for 30-plus years. Now at 70 years old, she helps to conduct classes under our Kumu’s guidance. She is also training to be a ho’opa’a (one who memorizes all of the different drumbeats and chants).

Our hearts are with the people of Maui who are experiencing devastating loss from the tragic wildfires. In addition to raising donations to support SPCA-NN through our signature festival, the Pioneer Center will also be making donations to the Maui Strong Fund through the Hawaii Community Foundation and the Kako’o Maui Fund through the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement to provide help and direct services to the people of Maui.

CONTROLLED BURN

Controlled Burn is Reno’s fire arts and performance troupe. We were ignited in 2000 to dance in the Great Circle at Burning Man and have been dancing at the foot of The Man on Burn Night ever since. We are the creators and producers of the annual Artown Compression! Art and Fire festival held in downtown Reno each July and invite all our friends to help us share the culture and impact of Burning Man with those who might not otherwise discover our passion for the Fire Arts. Controlled Burn Inc. is a professional, non-profit, volunteer performance group whose purpose is to provide multifaceted quality entertainment for all ages, within the venue of local group performances. We are committed to performance, education, and training of interested individuals in our performance arts. In the pursuit of these goals, we seek to recruit motivated, responsible, hardworking, dedicated people to our team, and seek to empower them as performance artists.

Controlled Burn is dedicated to maintaining skills for its performers and protection for our audience. There is an all-volunteer board of directors that protects and unifies Controlled Burn’s public face and voice and teaches member artists how to contribute to and take lessons from the non-profit structure.

Board Members

Treasurer: Carlyn Perona King

PR/Media: Christopher Baker

Booking/Permitting: Tami Matus

Production: Cindi Ricigliano-Cramer

Education: Jeannie Morgan

Safety: Diane Albrecht

Member-At-Large: Crystal Platten

Shin (Burning Man): Alex Porten

Company: Diane Albrecht, Brenda Ashworth, Jesse Brightside, Annie Calamusa, Patrick Calkins, Cindi Cramer, Scott Darling, Keaton Fowler, Shannon Gallimore, Nathan Gerrard, Cindylou Fougner, Tom Fougner, Rachel Jessee, Adler Kellenbarger, Tina Louise Lasser, Kimberly Lemond, Cristi Martin, Morgan Massie, Alison Matus, Jeannie “The Mermaid” Morgan, Troy “Vice Admiral” Morgan, Alyssa Peer, David Phebus, Tifa Porten, Lilli Teachenor, and Maya Z.

CONTROLLED BURN THE DANCE ARTISTS

Diane Albrecht has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2002 when she started spinning fire. She spins poi and staff and has contributed to the group as a performer, Executive director, producer for our performances at Burning Man is currently the Safety Director.

Brenda Ashworth joined Controlled Burn Reno in 2007 after attending Burning Man for the first time. Throughout the years she has served in many of the positions required to keep a “ Non-profit Fire Performance” group functioning as well having the pleasure of performing.

Jesse Brightside joined Controlled Burn in 2023. He began spinning fire in 2011 focusing primarily on Poi. He currently acts as Fire Safety for the group.

Annie Calamusa is a 40-year young Reno native who has been spinning poi since her late teens and doesn’t see stopping in her future. She joined Controlled Burn in 2020 and has found her skills continuing to grow. Having poi in her life helps to keep her body moving and keep her Multiple Sclerosis at a manageable level day to day. You will hear her saying, “Move it or lose it,” which has become her biggest motto for life.

Patrick Calkins - Having been part of the Burning Man community since 2003 as coowner of the DogFish Mutant Vehicle, Patrick recently joined Controlled Burn in 2020 as a fire safely. When not performing fire safety, he

can be found spinning LED poi, DJing smaller events, and learning other flow arts such as staff and contact Poi.

Cindi Cramer owned Dance Unlimited in Buffalo, NY for 20 years. She has choreographed all types of dance, as well as plays, beauty pageants, professional cheerleading squads and community events. She’s currently the Production Mistress for Controlled Burn and one of the choreographers, associated with CB since 2002. Cindi worked with fire troupe Flameology in Las Vegas, and has been a Black Rock Ranger, Fire Dancer, and with the ARtery at Burning Man.

Scott Darling started spinning fire in the Bay Area flow community in 2018. He got his start with fire performances in the 2019 Burning Man Fire Conclave as part of the group Ministry of Flow. He then joined Controlled Burn in 2022 and performed in several events over the last year. Scott primarily spins contact staff, rope dart, poi, and fans, but is always picking up new props to continue developing his flow.

Keaton Fowler joined Controlled Burn this year (2023). He has participated in the group by being a safety at a few shows. He is still continuing to practice contact staff and poi.

Nathan Gerrard is a new fire spinner being taught by Controlled Burn. He spins staff, fans, and hoops. He’s in Controlled Burn’s choreography for Burning Man and has been performing with them locally.

CONTROLLED BURN THE DANCE ARTISTS

Cindylou & Tom Fougner: Tom has been spinning fire with Controlled Burn since 2009 and does all the tools and can spit fire! Cindylou has spun fire since 2022 and can do some of the tools. They contribute to the group by choreographing and performing routines, not to mention the laughs!

Rachel Jessee is an international professional fire performer, dancer and choreographer previously based in NYC and LA. She has performed fire for countless productions and clients including the NFL Super Bowl, Paramount Pictures, Miley Cyrus, The Box NYC, Oculus, Dos Equis, Zen Arts LA, Cirque-tacular Entertainment and many more. Rachel is additionally an organic farmer, mushroom producer and has an Environmental Sustainability degree from Harvard University.

Adler Kellenbarger has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2022 and spinning fire off and on from 2020. His tools are poi, staff and fans, with main roles for the group in safety and performance.

Tina Louise Lasser has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2014 when she first learned to manipulate fire using various tools. She performs using poi, double staff, and fans. She began contributing as one of several choreographers in the troupe in 2016 and likes to challenge herself and the troupe to learn new skills.

Kimberly Lemond joined Controlled Burn in 2022 having never worked with fire props. She became inspired to join them and learn

after watching the group perform. She is currently performing with fans and staff while learning to manipulate poi.

Cristi Martin joined Controlled Burn in 2017 with no experience at all spinning fire. She had long been mesmerized by the fire spinners at Burning Man and decided it’s never too late to learn. She spins fans and staff, and she still can’t believe that she has been lucky enough to be a performer at Burning Man.

Morgan Massie joined Controlled Burn in 2008. Her performance background includes belly dance and hoop dance, along with being a certified hoop dance instructor. Morgan performs with fire hoops, fans, staff, poi, palm torches, and specialty props. Additionally, Morgan holds a level one NFPA fire service instructor certification. Morgan’s contributions to the group include serving as a board member, production director, choreographer, safety personnel, and producer for our Burning Man performances.

Alison Matus has been with Controlled Burn since 2016. Having joined the group at age 12, she mainly participated as a safety and glow performer until she could perform with fire at age 18. She spins poi, fans, and staff.

Tami Matus has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2016. Through the group’s helpful volunteers, she has learned to spin poi, fans and staff. Tami assists the group as a point of contact for booking and handles permitting for fire shows outside of Washoe County.

CONTROLLED BURN THE DANCE ARTISTS

Jeannie “The Mermaid” Morgan started playing with fire and has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2022. Greatest achievements have been learning to choreograph moves with fire fans and staff to perform at many Controlled Burn events, including the Great Circle at Burning Man.

Troy “Vice Admiral” Morgan has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2022, focusing on fire safety as his primary duty. His responsibilities include overseeing the venue’s condition, managing fire dump location, and ensuring proper operation and placement of fire extinguishers. Working collaboratively with other fire safety personnel for both spotting and tool put outs, Vice Admiral strives to create a safe environment where the fire performers deliver an exceptional experience without incident.

Alyssa Peer has been a member of Controlled Burn before in 2015 and is starting again as a performer. She started spinning fire in 2014 with Staff and Poi and has performed with them at their shows and at Burning Man.

David Phebus has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2014. He joined Controlled Burn to begin performing with fire. He performs with Nun-Chucks (Nun-Chaku), Poi, Staff and Fans. He has contributed to the group as a choreographer, production director and show performer.

Alex Porten has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2010. He started spinning fire in 2006, and spins Poi, Staff, Fans,

and Clubs. He has contributed to the group as a choreographer, safety director, and producer for our performances at Burning Man.

Tifa Porten has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2011 and has spun fire with them at Burning Man and beyond ever since! They even met their spouse at a Controlled Burn event! They currently help out as part of the fire Safety team.

Maya Z has been a member of Controlled Burn since 2019. She started spinning fire in 2022 and spins fans. She has contributed to the group as a safety and dancer in shows in Reno and Carson.

ENTITY MOVEMENT

Entity Movement was created at the beginning of this year and is comprised of nine unique performance artists who not only have a passion for creating art, but also sharing their art with the community. Many of them are also teachers, choreographers, performers, and present members of various forms of art in Northern Nevada. The collective has been dancing together in one way or another for many years and finally decided to form themselves into an Entity. They strive to inspire the community through their contagious passion for dance, and love for artistic collaboration. In this performance, they will be executing various styles of dance and movement– including hip-hop, contemporary, modern, and commercial dance. @entity.movement

Awakening

Music: Alan Watts (spoken word), Kanye West, CharlestheFirst, CloZee, TRex_Beatmaker, KAIVON, Kendrick Lamar, Childish Gambino, Iniko (remix)

Choreography: Brandon Dabu and Sierra Taylor-Cline, with creative input from Kelly August and Ramón Martinez-Huerta

Dancers: Kelly August, Joel Benavente, Brandon Dabu, Alisha Johnston, Lucero MartinezHuerta, Ramón “Ray” Martinez-Huerta, Alex Moya, Marissa Poe, and Sierra Taylor-Cline

ENTITY MOVEMENT

Sierra Taylor-Cline, Co-Director & Dance Artist

Sierra Taylor-Cline is an emerging artist from Las Vegas, NV and has been choreographing and teaching in Reno and greater Northern Nevada for 11 years. She began dancing at age eight in the style of hip-hop, and around age 12 began exploring other styles such as ballet, lyrical, contemporary, jazz, modern, and improv. She has been a part of various dance crews and teams throughout her dance career and believes that collaboration is the core center of art. Currently, Sierra teaches both kids and adults as her full-time career and believes that dance is the true language of the soul. She is most passionate about performing her own choreography on stage and loves to be in front of live audiences. Her dream is to choreograph and tour with various artists and be able to travel the world and make a living doing what she loves most.

Brandon Dabu, Co-Director & Dance Artist

Brandon Dabu is a dancer, choreographer and teacher based in Reno, Nevada. As a kid, Brandon always loved to dance. He would try to teach himself techniques such as waving just because he was so mesmerized by the way the body could move. Soon after graduating from college, he stepped into a dance studio on a consistent basis and hasn’t looked back. He embraced his strong love for dance and began to really express his true self. As a student and teacher of this art he enjoys training and pushing himself to better his craft, takes what he learns and discovers and shares that knowledge with the individuals he teaches. He believes in continuously growing together, bringing each other up, and sharing kind, loving and positive energy with one another in order to create an optimal learning environment that leads to consistent growth!

ENTITY MOVEMENT THE DANCE ARTISTS

Kelly August, born in Las Vegas, started ballet training at age 2. She continued her formal training with the Nevada Ballet Theater and Center Stage Dance Academy. She furthered her dance studies at the Las Vegas Academy for Performing Arts before moving to Reno to attend UNR. Kelly has a large range of performance experience in both academic and commercial settings along with back of house, production, and planning for large scale performances. She currently teaches weekly and is also a co-director of Revelation, a local Cha-Cha Company, and the founder of ConfiDance.

Joel Benavente was always passionate about the creative arts but his passion for dance was sparked while attending college in 2015. Joel’s main style of dance is hip hop with influences from contemporary, jazz funk, and step and stroll style. Joel has choreographed and competed in a winning step competition performance and the UNR Stroll for Tots performances, winning several audience and crowd choice awards, and has also performed with a dance crew at local events. He has taught all levels and ages hip hop for various studios around the Reno area.

Alisha Johnston has been dancing for 16 years in Reno. Her training started at Art in Motion, where she later began teaching and choreographing. In 2015, she continued her training at TMCC, earning her AA in Dance. As a young dancer, she participated in Artown performances with TNT & PDC Cheer & Dance. In 2023, Alisha performed in The Reno Dance Mix. Much of her inspiration comes

from the teachers who helped fuel her love of dance, including Monique Bowman, Sierra Taylor-Cline, Kimberly Gomolka, and John Mojica.

Lucero Martinez-Huerta grew up with a love for the arts and performing. Her journey began with plays, talent shows, and choir. Lucero believes we are all capable of anything through passion, patience, and dedication. Recent performances include Reno Dance Mix, and La India Yuridia US tour. Lucero continues to train at The Reno Empire in Ballet, Salsa, Batchata, Heels, and Jazz, but is most passionate about expressing her movement through Hip Hop and Contemporary. She knows sharing experiences and inspiring each other through a shared passion is what the dance community is all about.

Ramón “Ray” Martinez-Huerta has been dancing his entire life but found new love upon stepping into a studio. Since beginning his formal dance training in 2016, he has dedicated his time and energy to pursuing his passion. Shortly after joining his first dance crew, Ray began to teach classes and choreograph his own original pieces while discovering his love for performing and becoming a force in the dance community. He prides himself on bringing flavorful twists to Hip-Hop and Reggaeton and believes anything is possible once you step outside your comfort zone.

ENTITY MOVEMENT THE DANCE ARTISTS

Alex Moya was born and raised in Northern Nevada. After joining the army, he graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno. Alex started dancing in 2020 and since then has focused on developing his skill in a variety of styles. Alex is inspired by and has gained training from industry professionals such as Dexter Carr and Scott Nicholson. He has performed in multiple shows including Midtown Mixtape, Hard Rock Male Revue, and the La India Yuridia US tour. Alex currently teaches Hip-Hop, R&B, and K-Pop classes at The Reno Empire.

Marissa Poe began dance training at a young age, studying under Cassie Brockway in jazz and tap, and ballet from many great teachers around Gardnerville. Her recent dance projects have led her to perform in various places. Dance also led Marissa to become a jewelry designer, and she debuted her jewelry line for The Reno Fashion Show 2022, also creating two fashion shows that have included dancers as well. Marissa thrives in the creative space as an individual indigenous artist.

NEVADA DANCE COMPANY

In 2020, Erica and Oliver Adams took over as the Artistic Directors of Pinkerton Ballet Theatre from Ayako Britt. Upon taking leadership, Erica and Oliver made it their goal to bring professional dance to the community, not only during The Nutcracker season but throughout the year. The name was later changed to Nevada Dance Company and several professional dancers who had relocated to northern Nevada were asked to join. In 2022, Erica and Oliver created a pre-Professional company to produce the next generation of classically trained dancers. The Pre-Professional side of the company currently consists of 9 dancers who get together once a week to learn and rehearse choreography. Nevada Dance Company’s PreProfessional Company is for hard working, dedicated young dancers of an advanced level, who are looking for a future career in dance at the professional or university level. Nevada Dance Company has presented several full-length ballets and concerts in Reno and Carson City, including The Nutcracker, which is still playing to sold out audiences in Carson City each season. This is their second year performing in the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival at the Pioneer Center.

Gershwin Suite

Music: George Gershwin

Choreography: Oliver-Paul Adams (2023)

Dancers: Erica Chipp-Adams, Oliver-Paul Adams, Kelsey Gerber, Charlotte Jones, Sofia Sanchez, Kinzie Stahl

Jockey Dance

Music: C.C Moller

Choreography: August Bournonville (1876)

Dancers: Xander Bacon, Jimmie Grant

Scheherazade

Music: Alexander Glazunov

Choreography: Mikhail Folkine (1910)

Dancers: Jonathan Dummar, Gretchen LaWall

Alt-J

Music: Alt-J

Choreography: Oliver-Paul Adams (2023)

Dancers: Erica Chipp-Adams, Oliver-Paul Adams, Xander Bacon, Kelsey Gerber, Jimmie Grant, Charlotte Jones, Gretchen LaWall, Coco Lehmann, Danica Pinto, Sofia Sanchez, Kinzie Stahl

NEVADA DANCE COMPANY

Erica Adams, Artistic Director & Dancer

Erica Adams received her formal Vaganova training at The Harid Conservatory. In 2004 she began her professional career with Festival Ballet Providence, where she danced numerous lead roles in Cinderella, Rodeo, Scheherazade, Carmen, Don Quixote and various Anthony Tudor and Balanchine ballets. In 2010 she joined Smuin Ballet where she was featured in works by Jiri Kylian, Val Caniparoli, Ma Cong, Trey McIntyre, Helen Pickett, Amy Seiwert and many ballets by Micheal Smuin. As a guest artist, Erica has danced the principal roles in Giselle, Coppélia, Romeo & Juliet, and Cinderella with Sierra Nevada Ballet and the Sugar Plum Fairy in NVDC’s The Nutcracker. Erica’s vast career led her to be a part of an Audi campaign and a featured performer and Emmy winner on NBC’s BaseBallet, Into the Game. Erica and Oliver-Paul Adams run Dance Workshop in Minden and have been Artistic Directors of Nevada Dance Company since 2021.

Oliver-Paul Adams, Artistic Director & Dancer

Originally from England, Oliver trained at the Birmingham Royal Ballet School. During this time Oliver performed with the Paris Opera Ballet, English National Ballet and the Birmingham Royal Ballet at venues including the Royal Opera House, The London Coliseum and the Royal Albert Hall. During his graduation year, Oliver danced in Japan and the USA as well as dancing for the Royal Family. At age 17, Oliver started his professional career with the Birmingham Royal Ballet. Adams joined the Slovak National Ballet in 2007 which then led to Sacramento Ballet, Diablo Ballet and Smuin Ballet, dancing principal and soloist roles in Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and works by Jiří Kylián and George Balanchine to name just a few. Oliver has performed at the World Ballet All Stars Gala in both Prague and Bratislava. Adams has choreographed for Sacramento Ballet, Sierra Nevada Ballet, Smuin Ballet and the San Francisco Symphony.

NEVADA DANCE COMPANY THE DANCE ARTISTS

Gretchen LaWall trained at Cary Ballet Conservatory and then went on to earn her BFA through the University of Arizona School of Dance. Professionally, she danced at River North Dance in Chicago and Garrett+Moulton Productions in San Francisco. She joined NVDC in 2021 and owns Your Body Pilates in Reno.

Jonathan Dummar graduated valedictorian from the Harid Conservatory. He has performed professionally with the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, Smuin Ballet, Ballet Memphis, Trey McIntyre Project and San Francisco Opera. He joined NVDC in 2022 and is now pursuing a Master’s of Kinesiology from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Kelsey Gerber trained at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet and then performed with State Street Ballet’s apprentice company. She received a BFA at UC Irvine and was a company member with Brockus: RED, Heidi Duckler Dance Theatre, Peter & Co., Bellwether Dance Project and AXIS Dance Company. Kelsey joined NVDC in 2021.

Pre-Professional Dancers

Xander Bacon NVDC - Tarantella Doll, Rat King and Russian (Nutcracker) Origins, Jockey Dance, Raymonda, Alt J (New Beginnings)

Jimmie Grant NVDC - Nutcracker Prince, Russian (Nutcracker) Origins, Raymonda, Jockey Dance, Alt J (New Beginnings)

Charlotte Jones NVDC - (Nutcracker) Origins, Raymonda, Alt J (New Beginnings)

Coco Lehmann NVDC - Tarantella Doll, Angel Soloist, Spanish Soloist (Nutcracker) Origins, Raymonda, Irish Suites, Alt J (New Beginnings)

Danica Pinto NVDC - Ballerina Doll, Angel Soloist (Nutcracker) Origins, Raymonda, Irish Suites, Alt J (New Beginnings)

Sofia Sanchez NVDC - Marzipan Trio, Lead Snow (Nutcracker) Origins, Raymonda, Alt J (New Beginnings)

Kinzie Stahl NVDC - Clara, Spanish Soloist, Angel Soloist (Nutcracker) Origins, Raymonda, Irish Suites, Alt J (New Beginnings)

AROUND THE STAGE

Around the Stage | Theatrical Dance Company was founded by Keely Cobb to create a platform for her work as well as professional opportunities for local performers and theater technicians in the Reno performing arts community. Through a collaborative process, Around the Stage presents quirky evening length works that combine theatrical elements of crafting characters, investigating relationships, and assembling narratives with multiple dance techniques. Since their founding in 2018, Around the Stage has performed seven evening length works, a music video, a dance film, and presented commissioned works at Reno Little Theater, Good Luck Macbeth, Artown, Sierra Arts Foundation, and the Cleveland Dance Festival. They performed Seraphim in the inaugural Dog Days of Summer Dance Summer Dance Festival at the Pioneer Center and were chosen to return this season.

86 The Dance Suite

Music: High Step Society, LaVie, Mononome, Sleep Sound, Riff Kitten, DJ Mibor, Balkan Beat Box

Choreography: Keely Cobb

Dancers: Ivy Case, Alex Clearwater, Heather Rodriguez, Glynis Irving, Deena Schmidt, and Kimberly Yukes

Keely Cobb, Director

Keely Cobb is a Reno, NV based dance choreographer, dancer, teacher, five-time Nevada Arts Council Grant recipient, the 2020 Artown Commissioned Artist, the Director of Theatre at Sage Ridge School, and the founder of Around the Stage | Theatrical Dance Company. Cobb began her professional choreography career in Spring 2016 with a commission from Evoke Modern Dance Company for her short dance, “The Wild.” Shortly after, she was hired by the University of Nevada, Reno to assistant choreograph their Fall musical, The Music Man. She has since produced and choreographed seven evening length dance works, a music video and many commissioned works. Original evening length works include: The Showbiz Cabaret (2016), Relations (2017), The Poetry Movement (2018), Synopsis of This. (2018), The Showbiz Cabaret Remake (2019), “Take My Hand” Music Video (2020), SPLATTERED (2021), and Seraphim (2022). She has also choreographed commissioned works for Reno Little Theater, Good Luck Macbeth, Brüka Theater, Artown, Sierra Arts Foundations, and Sage Ridge School.

AROUND THE STAGE THE DANCE ARTISTS

Ivy Case is a Wyoming native who preserved a strong curiosity for creative aspirations throughout her life. She has performed with companies from San Francisco to New York. Outside of performing and teaching, she is also a published Artist. Ivy loves helping others find their voice through painting, movement, and observation.

Alex Clearwater moved to Reno in 2022 to pursue a career more seriously in dance. Her training is in ballet, contemporary, and modern. Alex has had the pleasure of performing at fundraising galas, Music Festivals, Reno Dance Festival, and other local events. She looks forward to performing Keely Cobb’s latest work.

Heather Rodriguez graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Houston and started her career with Ad Deum Dance company. Since moving to Reno in 2021, Heather has worked with Sierra Nevada Ballet, A.V.A Ballet Theatre, and is currently a company member with Around the Stage.

Glynis Irving, a graduate of UNR and current Surgical Technologist at Renown, has been a part of Around the Stage since it began. She has performed in The Showbiz Cabaret (2016 and 2019), Relations, Splattered, and Seraphim. Glynis is very excited to perform in the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival again!

Deena Schmidt has danced with various companies across the US including Ithaca Ballet (principal dancer) in New York, Xclaim

Dance Company in Ohio, A.V.A. Ballet Theatre, Downtown Dance Collective, and Around the Stage here in Reno.

Kimberly Yukes dances with ATS, Moderngram, Sierra Nevada Ballet, and Collateral & Co. She graduated summa cum laude from UNLV and teaches yoga, silks, barre, and ballet. Kimberly loves challenging her physical limits and exploring creativity, artistry, and healing arts. She loves sharing these things with her precious children. (Appears courtesy of Sierra Nevada Ballet.)

BALLET FOLKLÓRICO INTERNACIONAL DE RENO

Y DANZA AZTECA AZTLÁN

Los grupos Ballet Folklórico Internacional de Reno y Danza Azteca Aztlán surgieron en el 2006 con la finalidad de representar multicultural de México, con interpretaciones de bailes y danzas caracteristicas de cada estado y diferentes comunicades, portando con orgullo la gran variedad étnica y lingüística de una gran nación. La grandeza de México está marcada por su pasado milenario, tierra de grandes civilizaciones como los Aztecas, Mayas, Olmecas, Zapotecas, Purépechas entre muchas otras más que han dejado un gran legado y un precedente para la humanidad que a la llegada de los conquistadores fue ultrajada y devastada pero jamás borrada pues logro mesclar su misticismo, color y ritmo con los sones del viejo mundo, para así dar pie a la gran autenticidad de lo que hoy día es la grandeza folclórica de México. Ballet Folklórico Internacional de Reno y Danza Azteca Aztlán siempre han tenido el compromiso de representar con dignidad y respeto la esencia de nuestras raíces y de lo que estamos formados, teniendo como principal ideal apoyar y difundir el arte y folclore como una herramienta de aprendizaje para nuestros jóvenes.

Ballet Folklórico Internacional de Reno and Danza Azteca Aztlán emerged in 2006 with the purpose of representing the multiculturalism of Mexico, with interpretations of dances characteristic of each state and different communities, proudly carrying the great ethnic and linguistic variety of a great nation. The greatness of Mexico is marked by its millennial past, land of great civilizations such as the Aztecs, Mayas, Olmecs, Zapotecs, Purépechas, among many others that left a legacy and a precedent for humanity that, upon the arrival of the conquerors, was outraged and devastated but never erased. It managed to mix its mysticism, color, and rhythm with the sounds of the old world, in order to give rise to the great authenticity of what is today the folkloric greatness of Mexico. Ballet Folklórico Internacional de Reno and Danza Azteca Aztlán have always had the commitment to represent with dignity and respect the essence of our roots and what we are made of, having as its main ideal to support and spread art and folklore as a learning tool for our youths.

Coreografía: Mariano Lemus, Antonio Muñoz, y Anastacio Duran

Bailarines: Haley Ballesteros, Janai Ballesteros, Libby Ballesteros, Melissa Camargo, Óscar Chávez, Norma Dávila, Anastacio Duran, Antonio Guerrero (Conejo), Mariano Lemus, Mariana Martínez, Kimberly Mendez, Antonio Muñoz, Guadalupe Muñoz, Stacy Perez, Mimi Rodriguez, Esmeralda Salcedo, Yesenia Saucedo, y Lesly Victorino

BALLET FOLKLÓRICO INTERNACIONAL DE RENO Y DANZA AZTECA AZTLÁN

Mariano Lemus, Director Artístico y Bailarín

Mariano Lemus nació en Morelia, México en 1981. Su pasión por el mundo del arte de la Danza y el teatro se va formando con el paso del tiempo y las enseñanzas de diferentes profesores. Llega a los Estados Unidos a la edad de 17 años, su inquietud por el teatro y la falta de arte e identidad cultural en su comunidad es lo que lo mueve para formar parte de diferentes grupos de teatro. Es hasta el 2006 que decide junto con otros amigos formar uno de los primeros grupos de teatro en Español de la ciudad de Reno, “Sangre Latina,” y aunado a ello y para seguir fomentando las tradiciones Hispanas se da a la tarea de formar otros dos grupos Danza Azteca Aztlan y Ballet Folklórico Internacional de Reno. Mariano logró conocer con gran profundidad las necesidades de su comunidad al trabajar en televisión como reportero, camarógrafo y comentarista de deportes para las cadenas Univision y Tv Azteca y como locutor de Radio en la Mega 1400 AM y Radio Xtasis donde labora hasta el día de hoy.

Antonio

Muñoz,

Director Artístico y Bailarín

Antonio Muñoz originario del Cañón de Juchipila, Zacatecas, México, arribo a la ciudad de San José, California donde siguió sus estudios en baile folclórico, especializándose como profesor de danzas artísticas culturales y énfasis en ejecución y técnicas corporales, en el año 2008 decide moverse a la ciudad de Dayton, Nevada, donde inicio sus enseñanzas formando un grupo infantil llamado Metzonalli, en el 2012 se incorpora a Ballet folklorico Internacional de Reno como profesor y Director artístico, logrando llevar al grupo a participar en grandes eventos como el show de gala de la filarmónica de Carson City o la puesta en escena del Ballet Folklorico Estampas de México, por mencionar algunos.

Anastacio Duran, Director Artístico y Bailarín

Anastacio Duran nació en Genaro Codina, Zacatecas, donde comenzó sus inquietudes por la Danza y el baile folclórico, participando en diferentes eventos educativos y civiles, llego a la ciudad de Reno en el año 1999, sus inicio artísticos comenzaron al ingresar al grupo de teatro Sangre Latina donde logro participar en diversas obras de teatro, siendo en el año 2006 donde junto con otros compañeros funda el grupo de Danza Azteca Aztlán en el cual funge como director artístico y diseñador de vestuarios hasta la fecha, su pasión por la danza y la costura lo han llevado a realizar grandes vestuarios que se han hecho símbolos únicos del grupo como son los trajes de los guerreros Águila, y Jaguar así como el Búho y la Muerte entre otros.

BALLET FOLKLÓRICO INTERNACIONAL DE RENO

Y DANZA AZTECA AZTLÁN LOS ARTISTAS DE LA DANZA

My name is Haley Ballesteros. I am 18 years old and have been dancing ballet folklorico for 7 years. I am currently a university student and I enjoy studying all types of art forms and experiencing anything new and exciting. I was born and raised in Reno, Nevada and I love that I can still be in touch with my culture and Mexican heritage.

My name is Janai Ballesteros. I have been dancing for 4-5 years. I like listening to music and I have a dog.

My name is Libby Ballesteros and I have been dancing ballet folklorico for 7 years now. I was born and raised in Reno and am currently a student at UNR.

Hi, my name is Melissa Camargo and I have been dancing for over 20 years in the Reno, NV area. I recently took up Danza with Danza Azteca Aztlan back in April and have enjoyed my time learning. We train and rehearse 2-3 hours per week, practicing and perfecting each dance.

Mi nombre Óscar Chávez me integre a balet Folclorico Internacional aproximadamente hace un año pertenecer a este grupo es muy hermoso poder enseñar un poco de nuestras tradiciones.

Soy Norma Dávila. Orgullosamente mexicana de Ameca Jalisco, pertenezco a Balet Folclorico Internacional desde 2014 bailar me hace feliz poder enseñar nuestra cultura aquí USA.

Antonio Guerrero - Nací en Mexico y desde siempre me han gustado las artes y todas las expresiones culturales, ingrese a Ballet Folklorico Internacional y Danza Azteca Aztlan desde el año 2012, me gusta trasmitir y mostrar con orgullo mis raíces.

Mi nombre es Mariana Martínez. Nací en Colima, Mexico. Me gusto por el folklore, comenzó de niña. Actualmente practico la danza Azteca. Mis raíces y mi cultura es mi pasión.

My name is Kimberly Mendez. I am 16 years old. I have been part of the traditional Aztec dance and folkloric ballet since 2016. I am proud to express my culture.

Guadalupe Muñoz - I am 20 years old and in love with the art of dance and culture of folkloric music dance. I have been dancing for 15 years, starting as a curious 5-year-old who loved watching her dad dance. Ballet folkorico has helped me express my culture and tell stories. I have a dog of my own that I love and adore. My mission is to help improve the lives of others and educate the true meaning of culture!

Mi nombre es Stacy Perez. Tengo 31 años. Nací en Elko, Nevada y soy madre de dos niñas de 5 y 7 años que también bailan Ballet Folklórico. Mis padres son de Uruapan, Michoacán y Pachuca, Hidalgo, México. Llevo aproximadamente un año y medio bailando con Flor de Castilla Ballet Folklórico y unos meses con Azteca Aztlan y no podría sentirme más feliz haciéndolo.

BALLET FOLKLÓRICO INTERNACIONAL DE RENO

Y DANZA AZTECA AZTLÁN LOS ARTISTAS DE LA DANZA

My name is Mimi Rodriguez, and I’m from Guadalajara, Jalisco. A model, dancer and actress, I joined the theater and Folklor dancing group more than two decades ago to follow in my family’s footsteps, embrace our culture and not let our roots be forgotten. Our group has performed at the Governor’s Mansion, The Nevada Museum of Art, and now I’m so blessed and happy to be performing here. Thanks to everyone involved for giving us the opportunity. LOVE, HAPPINESS & DANCE.

My name is Yesenia Saucedo, and my ethnicity is Hispanic. I was born on October 21, 1981 in Durango, Mexico located Northern middle of Mexico. I’ve been in Ballet Folklórico Internacional de Reno for almost a decade. Not only is it immense therapy for both the performers and audience, but it helps represent the country’s diverse cultural heritage within different Mexican states.

Mi nombre es Lesly Victorino. Tengo 20 años. Naci y creci en Reno, NV. Me interese en el folklore a los 16 años. Bailo danza Azteca y se a convertido en mi actividad favorita estoy orgullosa de representar mi cultura Mexicana.

OPENING ACTS

Ballet Folklórico Pueblo Nuevo (Friday)

Belén Chávez (Directora)

Soy Belén Chavez: Directora de Ballet Folklórico Pueblo Nuevo, orgullosamente Mexicana. Mi amor desde la infancia por el arte me llevaron a seguir trasmitiendo nuestra cultura atrabes del balile. El estar rodeada de niños maravillosos es mi gran inspiración. Facebook | Instagram

Instructores: Omar Chavez, Grecia Chávez, Miguel Medina

Bailarines: Alizon Aguirre ,Alondra Cerda Barcenas, Janessa Cerda

Barcenas, Ailani Cisneros , Sofía Delgado , Francisco del Río Ramires , Cithlaly Gabriola

Enríquez, Heavenly Enríquez , Katia R Gabriola Enríquez, Yaretzi Galarza Rendón , Yolzin

Galarza Rendón , Linda Camila Gonzalez , Dayana Guadarrama , Ayary Hernandes Rodríguez , Belén Hernández , Jahyden Hernández , Jayleen Hernández, Kimverly Hernández, Yoandry

Hernández Rodríguez , Valeria Macías, Adriana Marantes Diaz , Melany Marantes Diaz, Iker

Julián Márquez Cuevas, Alexa Martínez , Andrea Martínez , Juan Carlos Martínez , Victoria

Martínez , Keysean Mateo Rickerson , Josue Gael Rivera , Amy Medina Palomeras, Rosa

Analia Ramírez , Aliyah J. Rico Copado, Dayanna A Rico Copado, Emmalyn Rupp, Alishna

Salazar , Diego Salazar , Janitza Santos Reyes , Kendra Alexia Soto , Diego Torres Gonzalez , y Kaylee Juliet Zaragoza Vásquez

OPENING ACTS

Note-Able Music Therapy Services

(Saturday & Sunday)

Wendy Firestone (Choreographer)

Choreographer and dance instructor for Note-Able Music Therapy Services (NMTS), Wendy Firestone, created Every Body Dances with input and influence from the NMTS dancers. Wendy has been performing, teaching and choreographing dance for more than 30 years. She began teaching and choreographing for people with a wide range of abilities in the early 90’s and has produced ten full-length concerts featuring dancers with and without disabilities. Every Body Dances explores how once we move beyond societal limitations, dance can be a medium for any person to live an expansive life filled with connection and joy. Everybody deserves to have the chance to dance, and every body dances.

Music by Chopin, Music That Will Make You Cry, and Bach. Website | Instagram

Dancers: Bev Carpenter, Sierra Foos, Kailin “KK” Kelderman, and Breanne Knight

Photo credits: Trish French (group) and Nate Eng (headshot)

FESTIVAL STAFF

Adam Cates (Festival Director) was born and raised in Reno before embarking on a career in the performing arts as an educator, creative, and producer, residing mainly in New York City for two decades. Adam holds an MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts and a BA in Theatre; taught on the dance faculties of Pace University, Marymount Manhattan College, Rosie O’Donnell’s Theater Kids, Commercial Dance Intensive, Broadway Dance Center and Steps; and has been a guest artist across the USA, Canada, the Caribbean Islands, and Europe including The Juilliard School, Texas State University, UC-Irvine, Barcelona International Dance Summer Intensive, TAPS in Las Vegas and UNR, among many others. Adam has directed, choreographed, and performed in national tours, Lincoln Center, US network and international television, commercial stage productions, and major regional theater and opera companies across 31 States. He was a creative associate director & choreographer on award-winning Broadway musicals A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder, Anastasia, Anything Goes with Sutton Foster & Joel Grey, and Tommy Tune’s Doctor Dolittle. He wrote The Business of Show and co-wrote The World According to Snoopy. Adam is currently the Director of Community Engagement for the Pioneer Center and believes in the power of the performing arts to bring people together and foster empathy, collaboration, and community wellbeing. @adamcnyc adamcates.com

Italo Crocco (Lighting Designer & Technical Director) A graduate of the Technical Theatre training program at Pacific Conservatory for the Performing Arts, Italo has over 20 years of working stagehand experience. His skills encompass all aspects of technical theater, including theatrical rigging, carpentry, and lighting/sound design. He is responsible for all backstage operations at the Pioneer Center, including management of full-time staff members plus oversight of all on-call union stagehands. Italo enjoys the challenge of bringing a live event from concept to actualization, with an emphasis on quality, safety, and efficiency. He is inspired by the constant change of the industry and the fact that no two live performances are ever the same.

Dennyse Sewell (Executive Producer) As the leader of the region’s largest performing arts center, Dennyse is a passionate arts advocate who has dedicated her career to serving the northern Nevada community. Since joining the Pioneer Center in 2003, Dennyse has held a variety of positions within the organization prior to assuming the role of Executive Director in 2019. Her professional background includes team leadership, educational outreach, project management, development, and community collaboration. She currently serves on the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority Art Advisory Committee. She has served as past co-chair of the Reno Arts Consortium and past Board member for Truckee Meadows Tomorrow, A.V.A. Ballet Theatre, The Holland Project, Reno Little Theater, the Education Renaissance of Nevada Initiative, and the Lear Theater. She has also served as a past grant panelist for Nevada Arts Council and Sierra Arts Foundation, a commission panelist for Artown, a judge for Poetry Out Loud, an artist selection panelist for the University of Nevada Reno Performing Arts Series, and a delegate to the Western States Arts Federation. Dennyse is committed to expanding opportunities for our community to experience the transformative potential of arts and cultural experiences.

Additional Festival Staff

Asst. Technical Director & Stage Crew – Bryce Hall | Asst. Technical Director & Sound Operator – Eric Skye Stage Manager – Benjamin Browder | Asst. Festival Director: Heather Lemmons | Marketing & Playbill

Design – Logan Veith | Public Relations & Logo Design – Courtney Meredith, Design on Edge

SPCA of Northern Nevada – Jill Vacchina Dobbs, Nayla Garcia, Emily Lee, Sydney Denham

ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL

Local dance & movement companies who wish to be considered for the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival submit a detailed proposal that is reviewed and scored by an Artistic Advisory Review Panel. Scoring criteria includes artistic quality, educational and entertainment value, and diversity. The six headlining companies were selected by this year’s panel comprised of the following local and national arts leaders and dance experts Thank you to each of our panelists for donating your time and expertise to this year’s event.

Alexis Arlene Andrews

Alexis Arlene Andrews began her ballet training in Reno, Nevada under the direction of Maggie Banks, Dr. Barbara Land, Miriam Allen, and Alexander Van Alstyne. Her training continued at the schools of American Ballet Theatre (ABT), San Francisco Ballet, Joffrey Ballet and Walnut Hill School for the Arts. Alexis earned her Master of Arts for Teaching Dance in the Professions from New York University Steinhardt in combination with ABT Pedagogy National Training Curriculum certification. She is currently on faculty at Dance Theatre of Harlem, Steps Summer Intensive and ABTs Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis school including ABT outreach and teacher training.

Angel Reed

Proud of her Reno upbringing, Latina actress and dancer Angel Reed made her Broadway debut in the original cast of Rock of Ages, receiving the Astaire Award for “Best Female Dancer on Broadway.” She played the featured Salsation Dancer in Saturday Night Fever (Broadway National Tour) and has performed on Regis & Kelly, The Today Show, Conan O’Brien, Dancing with the Stars, and the 2009 Tony Awards. Angel was the Executive Producer of the star-studded NYC concert series Rock N’ Roll Debauchery for 6 sold-out years and recently choreographed the off-Broadway Star Trek parody musical Khan!. She is a 9-year faculty member of the National Dance Institute and the Artistic Director of The Broadway Originals training program in New Jersey.

Beth Macmillan

Formerly a professional dancer and actress, Beth Macmillan was promoted to Executive Director of Artown in 2003, where she has produced events, created “out of the box” approaches and strategic partnerships for presentations, copresentations, and future commissions. A recognized leader in the festival presenting model, she has made regional and international presentations for Arts Presenters, California Travel & Tourism Commission, Nevada Travel and Tourism, World Choir Games, and several regional service organizations. Beth was presented an award from the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN) for exceptional leadership in 2016. Under her guidance, Artown received EDAWN’s Business of the Year, Micro-Enterprise Award, and President’s Award. Beth serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP) and is an At-Large officer on their Executive Committee. Beth is also President of the Western Arts Alliance (WAA), a membership association of performing arts professionals throughout the western states and provinces.

ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL

Bradford D. Ka’ai’ai

Bradford D. Ka’ai’ai is a theatre arts educator for the WCSD and has had the privilege to work with the Nevada Repertory Company, TMCC Redfield Performing Arts Center, Reno Little Theatre, and Brüka Theatre. Previous credits include Miss Tracy Mills (The Legend of Georgia McBride), John Proctor (The Crucible), Otto Frank (The Diary of Anne Frank), Ghost of Christmas Present (A Christmas Carol), Ned Kynaston (The Compleat Female Stage Beauty), Alan Raleigh (God of Carnage), Uncle Peck (How I Learned to Drive), Yusef El-Fayoumy (The Last Days of Judas Iscariot), and Alan Turing (Breaking the Code). #imabrightkid

Cari Cunningham

Cari Cunningham is Associate Professor of Dance at the University of Nevada, Reno where she teaches courses in modern dance, choreography, teaching methods, history, and criticism/aesthetics. She is the founder of bellē contemporary dance co., and her choreographic works have been performed in Oregon, Colorado, California, Massachusetts, Mexico, New York City including the La Mama Experimental Theater, DUMBO Dance Festival, Green Space Take Root, the Cool NY Dance Festival, and at the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival. As a writer, Cari’s work has been published in Dance Magazine, Dance Spirit, and Dance Teacher.

Casey Noblett

Based in Raleigh, Casey Noblett is the founder of the Commercial Dance Intensive, a national training program designed to help dancers bridge the gap from technical training to working in the commercial dance industry. Casey began her dance career at age 10 under Jacques d’Amboise, performing at The White House, The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, The Smithsonian, Madison Square Garden, and in Japan, Taiwan, and Venezuela. Dance credits include work with Gloria Estefan, Will Smith, Chayanne, MTV, ABC, CBS, Univision, Telemundo, Disney, Universal, and the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks Dance Team as Captain. Casey has produced music videos for artists such as Carmit (Pussycat Dolls), Willie Gomez, Telisu, and Nick Hagelin, and travels with Royal Caribbean as an audition tour choreographer. She holds a degree from New World School of the Arts in Miami. @commercialdanceintensiv

Chip Abbott

Chip Abbott is a New York City based director, choreographer, and dancer originally from Carson City. Broadway/NYC: On the Town (assistant choreographer, and dance captain), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. 1st national tours: Tootsie (associate choreographer), R+H’s Cinderella, Andy Blankenbuehler’s Joseph… Dreamcoat.

TV/Film: The Gilded Age, Isn’t it Romantic, Saturday Night Live, The Tony Awards

Choreographer/Director credits: DanceBreak NYC, Azamara Club Cruises, MSC Cruise line, Holland America Line. Associate director/choreographer: Kennedy Center 50th Anniversary Concert on PBS, YoungArts Gala 2017, Bernstein at 100 starring Misty Copeland. Faculty at Broadway Dance Center NYC. BFA Oklahoma City University.

ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL

Christopher Dunn

Christopher Dunn got his start with RDC Productions in Reno, dancing classical and contemporary works. He has taught ballet, jazz, tap, and lyrical/contemporary at numerous schools in Nevada including the University of Nevada Reno. His professional career took to the high seas on Royal Caribbean International Cruise Lines. In the Bay Area, Christopher has danced with Napoles Ballet, Oakland Ballet, Peninsula Ballet and Dance Theatre of SF. In addition to dancing with these companies, he has also served as the wardrobe master and costume designer. Christopher is currently working with Diablo Ballet and Orinda Ballet and performs leading roles as a guest artist with Reno Dance Company.

Debra Moddelmog

Debra Moddelmog is Dean of Liberal Arts Emerita and Professor of English Emerita at the University of Nevada, Reno. During her six-year tenure as dean (2016-22), she oversaw the three academic areas of her college—the Humanities, the Social Sciences, and the Arts—along with several interdisciplinary programs and centers. As one of her goals, she implemented or facilitated strategic connections with the community, including those involving art, music, dance, and theatre. In her 40-year career in academia (30 years of which were devoted to The Ohio State University), she published five books and over 30 articles, mostly focused on American literature. Moddelmog has served on several local boards or committees focused on the arts. She has been a member of the Board of the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts since 2020 and is currently Vice President of Community Relations.

Eve Allen Garza

Eve Allen Garza is a Teaching Associate Professor for the Department of Theatre & Dance at UNR. She received her MFA in Ballet from the University of Utah (2013) and BS in Business Administration with a minor in dance from UNR (2007). She is a 5th-generation Nevadan; born and raised in Reno. Eve is the founder of the Downtown Dance Collective, a registered teaching artist with the Nevada Arts Council, and an arts integration specialist. Eve is the Ballet Mistress for A.V.A. Ballet Theatre and teaches classes locally at The Conservatory of Movement.

Francine Sheffield

Francine Sheffield is a former company member of Urban Bush Women. She received an MA in Performing Arts Administration from New York University. With her knowledge of dance and skills in arts administration, Francine started Sheffield Global Arts Management to advocate and represent female dance artists and dance artists of color. SGA Management is now in partnership with Rhizome Arts Consulting, continuing the work of serving and sharing the arts field. Francine serves as a proud board member for the Association for Performing Arts Professionals (APAP), and is Co-Chair of the Agent, Managers, Producers and Promoters Council (AMPP) for Dance/USA.

ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL

Joanna Numata

Professional dancer, choreographer and master teacher, Joanna Numata, has danced for Beyonce, Rihanna, Kanye West, Pharrell, Fergie, Black Eyed Peas, Busta Rhymes, Nelly, Cassie, Diddy, Romeo Santos, and Dirty Money, to name a few. Joanna was a principal character/dancer in the feature films I Am Legend, Step Up 3D, The Smurfs, and Friends with Benefits. Other credits include the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, MTV VMA’s, Saturday Night Live, Law & Order, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and choreographing national commercials for Kaboom Cleaner and music videos and stage shows for Joey Yung (Hong Kong pop sensation). Joanna teaches on the faculties of Broadway Dance Center, Joffrey Ballet, Limon, Commercial Dance Intensive, and Peridance, and has taught workshops throughout the US, Asia, Europe and Central America. Joanna is currently a resident director for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. @joannanumata

Joseph Corella

Joseph Corella, a 3rd generation Mexican American, is originally from Phoenix, Arizona. Using his dance, theatre, and fitness background, Joseph has traveled the globe, spreading his love and understanding of the importance of dance & movement. He created the international dance fitness sensation 567 Broadway! Joseph has appeared on Broadway in All Shook Up, National Tours of Grease (Dance Captain) and West Side Story, Surf the Musical in Las Vegas, TV’s Wizards of Waverly Place with Selena Gomez, and recently starred alongside Dolly Parton in her hit NBC television musical movie “Mountain Magic Christmas.” He has choreographed for Rebel Wilson (“Catercize” viral video), MTV Video Music Awards, CW’s Hart of Dixie, HBO’s A Quinceñera Story, and a music video for 98 Degrees. JosephCorella.com

Kate Hutter Mason

Kate Hutter Mason is the owner of Stomping Ground L.A., a community arts space in East L.A. Kate also co-founded the L.A. Contemporary Dance Company in 2005, held the Artistic Directorship from 2005 – 2015, and is Board President today. Additionally, Kate works as Director of Strategic Initiatives for the aerospace design and manufacturing company, Click Bond. Kate is an alumnus of the Walnut Hill School and holds a BFA from USC and an MFA in Dance from Purchase College. Kate has presented her choreography at venues throughout L.A. and was the movement director for the band, Foster the People, on their 2013 Summer Tour. Kate is an adjunct professor at Loyola Marymount University and in her free time, continues to dance, choreograph, ride horses, and be the mother of two awesome kids, Charley and Rory, with her husband Eric. She grew up in Carson City and is one of this year’s Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival performing Guest Artists.

ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL

Kenway Hon Wai K. Kua

Kenway Hon Wai K. Kua grew up in Hawaii and lives in NYC. He is currently performing in the Broadway National Tour of Beetlejuice the Musical. Kenway performed on Broadway in Wicked and The Frogs (OBC). Additional national tour credits include Aladdin, Mary Poppins, and Flower Drum Song. Regional credits: The King and I (Chicago Lyric Opera), 9 to 5 (NC Theatre), How to Succeed... (TUTS), Waterfall (5th Avenue), Cinderella (NYC Opera), Pacific Overtures (Cincinnati Playhouse/Alliance Theater), and Miss Saigon (AMTSJ). @kenwaykua

L. Martina Young

L. Martina Young, PhD, is a dance artist, myth scholar, orator, and Somatics Educator. Informed by her diverse cultural lineage, Martina’s aesthetic is grounded in an expansive worldview, a moral imagination, and a deep sense of humanitas. A multi-year Fellow of the National Endowment for the Arts and recipient of Nevada’s Governor’s Arts Award for Excellence in the Arts, she has maintained a ‘radical hospitality’ space at her artist loft, The Lighthouse/Studio 5 O 2 since 2000, bringing together artists, civic leaders, and community members. Recognized as the solo dancer in Stevie Wonder’s music video Ribbon in the Sky and in filmmaker Julie Dash’s award-winning film, Four Women, Martina currently teaches The Swan Practice®—dance/movement for persons living with Parkinson’s Disease. Visit: www.apoeticbody.com

Mark Salinas

Mark Salinas is an advocate for equity and cultural competency in the arts, believing transparent and inclusive practices create a healthy democracy. He serves as a board member for the City of Reno Arts & Culture Commission (Chair), Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada Foundation, Nevada Arts Council, and Americans for the Arts Public Art Network Council. In 2020, amid Black Lives Matter protests and the Covid-19 pandemic, he created an online arts education initiative promoting the visibility of BIPOC artists in Nevada, entitled ‘The First Lady Presents…’. He currently serves as its state-wide Curator alongside the Nevada First Lady and the Nevada State Museum. Mark is the 2022 recipient of the Nevada Governor’s Point of Light Award for state volunteerism and a columnist for PBS Reno Art Views.

Megan Berner

Megan Berner is a visual artist and arts professional living and working in Reno, NV. Coming from a multi-disciplinary and non-traditional art background, Megan is interested in innovative ways to activate public space and create opportunities for citizens and artists to engage with the community and connect people to their environment. Her personal practice is centered around place and the psychological experience of the environment. Megan holds an MFA from the University of Iowa in Intermedia. She currently works as the Arts & Culture Manager for the City of Reno.

ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL

Nettie Oliverio

Nettie Oliverio is a partner with Foothill Partners Urban Development in the position of Arts and Culture Director. She collaborates on all the company’s projects to incorporate culture and commerce to build and sustain community. Recent projects are the Reno Public Market and the Oddie District. A graduate of the Alabama School of Fine Arts and former dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, Nettie served 10 years on the City of Reno Arts & Culture Commission and chaired the City’s Public Art Committee and Arts & Culture Grants Panel. She co-chairs the regional Reno Arts Consortium and serves as past Board President of the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. Nettie was recently appointed the ICSC Government Relations Chair for the State of Nevada.

Rosie Trump

Rosie Trump is a choreographer and dance filmmaker. Feminist and deliberately minimal, her work transforms the banal into radical. She holds an MFA in Experimental Dance Choreography from the University of California, Riverside and a BA in Dance from Slippery Rock University. Trump is the founder and curator of the biennial Third Coast Dance Film Festival and an Associate Professor of Dance at the University of Nevada, Reno. rosietrump.org

Roy Lightner

Roy Lightner currently serves as Artistic Director of the two-time Tony Awardwinning Red Mountain Theatre, and as an Associate Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (musical theatre/dance). His work spans internationally including productions and immersive events for Google, Lincoln Center, Stephen Sondheim Center, Transcendence Theatre Company, Music Theatre Wichita, Music Theatre of Kansas City, and more – totaling over 60 productions worldwide. Roy has received 5 National Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival awards for his original work, including Special Achievement in Directing and the Kennedy Center Citizen Artist Award. In 2021, he was the recipient of the Dorothy Schwartz Outstanding Educator Award from the Alabama Conference of Theatre.

Scott Hislop

Scott Hislop is a venerated film and television professional with roots 29 years deep in Los Angeles. He is a producer, choreographer, writer, dancer and actor. Scott has worked on over 30 feature films and 70 television shows. He has worked with some of the biggest directors of our time, including James Cameron, David Fincher and Rob Marshall and worked intimately with superstars Cate Blanchett, Emma Stone and Tobey Maguire among others. Scott is producer on the family film franchise “A Cinderella Story”. Most recently, he choreographed the smash hit “Welcome to Chippendales” on Hulu. Originally from Reno, Scott credits its thriving dance scene for instilling his passion for the arts.

ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL

Sierra Scott

Sierra Scott currently oversees grants for the Western States Arts Federation (WESTAF), after serving as the Arts & Culture Supervisor for Carson City and grants manager for the Nevada Arts Council. Upon earning her BFA in Theater Arts from Webster University, Sierra worked throughout the country in theater productions including Oklahoma! (1st National Tour), Cats, Anything Goes, and Thoroughly Modern Millie. She also worked as a Casting Director for film/TV projects at Warner Bros, 20th Century Fox, NBC, ABC, and CBS. Favorite projects include American Sniper with director Clint Eastwood, X-Men: Dark Phoenix, and Major Crimes. Sierra is currently the Artistic Director for Wild Horse Stage Company in Carson City.

Venita McLemore

Venita McLemore is an Event Producer and entrepreneur who has leveraged her career beginnings in dance to create singular, immersive performance and tech events globally. Based in New York City, Venita earned a BA in Biology and a BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography from Columbia College before attending the MFA Dance program at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Her dance performance credits include several regional dance companies and offBroadway musicals. For the last 15 years, Venita has worked as a conceptualizer, producer, and operations and events management consultant for several Fortune 500 companies. In 2018, she joined Amazon, first as the Senior Manager of Events for Audible and currently as the Senior Manager of PR Events for Amazon Web Services. Event production highlights include Audible’s Innovation Cathedral Premiere; sponsorship activations for Afrotech, Grace Hopper, and The Voice Summit; and the AWS re:Invent, re:MARS, and re:Inforce conferences. She is also an independent creative producer actively developing new projects for television.

Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts is the premier performing arts facility in northern Nevada, operating continuously since opening for business in 1968. Located in the heart of downtown Reno, we are a private 501(c)(3) cultural organization that both owns and operates our 55,000 square foot facility. Our venue houses a 1,500-seat mainstage proscenium auditorium, the 150-seat Pioneer Underground cabaret-theater, and the E.L. Cord Plaza which is also used for outdoor events and performances. The facility is listed on the National, Nevada State, and City of Reno Registers of Historic Places. We are a member of the League of Historic American Theatres.

OUR MISSION

To cultivate exceptional performing arts experiences in our historic venue and throughout the region

OUR VISION

A community that is connected, enriched, and inspired through the power of live performance

OUR VALUES

• We are all stronger together. As the region’s leading performing arts center, we maximize our impact by fostering collaboration with other arts organizations and actively practicing the power of partnership.

• The arts are for everyone. We are dedicated to presenting a broad range of high-quality programming that reflects and celebrates the diversity of the human experience. We strive to provide arts access in an environment where all people feel respected and welcome.

• Education is fundamental to a thriving community. The arts strengthen educational outcomes and inspire creative, compassionate citizens. We are committed to facilitating and providing dynamic arts education opportunities.

• We are stewards of a cultural treasure. We honor our responsibility to the community and to future generations by adhering to the highest standards of integrity and sustainability in the preservation of our historic building and in our business practices.

PIONEER CENTER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents Coppélia

Saturday, September 16th at 8pm

Sunday, September 17th at 2pm

Artown presents

Snarky Puppy

Tuesday, September 19th at 7:30pm

The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra presents Mr. Smiths Bowl of Notes

Saturday, September 23rd at 2pm

Sierra Nevada Ballet presents Dracula - The Ballet

Saturday, October 7th at 7:30pm

BENISE - Fiesta!

Saturday, October 21st at 7:30pm

PIONEER CENTER STAFF & BOARD

OFFICERS

Jim DeVolld – President

Maxine Harmatta – Treasurer / Secretary

Debra Moddelmog – VP Community Relations

Ann Silver – VP Development

Nettie Oliverio – Immediate Past President

PIONEER CENTER STAFF

Dennyse Sewell – Executive Director

Devenney Leijon – Managing Director

Italo Crocco – Technical Director

Breana Edgerton – Events Director

Bryce Hall – Assistant Technical Director

Eric Skye – Assistant Technical Director

DIRECTORS

Alicia Barber

Tom Clark

Bonnie Drinkwater

Christine Fey

Jennifer Rogers Markwell

Cony Linarez

Alex Woodley

Adam Cates – Director of Community Engagement

Clark Demeritt – Box Office Manager

Dianna Krueger – House Manager

Derek Smith – Facilities Supervisor

Taylor Ichord – Facilities Technician

Korona Phelps – Comptroller

Anette Christensen – Theatre Administrator

Logan Veith – Marketing Coordinator

Heather Lemmons – Education & Dev. Assistant

Jesse Spooner – Box Office Lead