Welcome to the historic Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts and the third annual Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival! The mission of 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. This Pioneer Center signature event brings our mission and vision into perfect alignment.
With this special event, the Pioneer Center celebrates 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. As you become inspired by the creative work you see onstage, I hope you will also be inspired to open your hearts and wallets to support this incredible local nonprofit organization. Please consider making a donation, visiting their thrift store, and even adopting a furry friend of your own. Every little bit helps them to achieve their mission.
You are sitting in the heart of the city, at the intersection of Reno’s original civic center, a gathering place for our community from the very beginning. We are proud that the Pioneer Center, a beloved historic venue, has been the place where the arts live in northern Nevada for 56 years. We recognize that the continued success of our nonprofit is made possible because of support from the incredible community we are a part of. Thank you to our volunteers, sponsors, donors, Board of Directors, and most of all, our patrons. I hope that you enjoy the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival. We look forward to welcoming you to the Pioneer Center for many more exceptional performances all year long.
Sincerely,
Dennyse Sewell Pioneer Center CEO
Thank you to our Dog Days of
Summer Dance Festival Sponsors
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
2024 FEATURED GUEST ARTIST: HALEY DAVIS
R I D A Y A U G U S T 1 6 S A T U R D A Y A U G U S T 1 7
A U G U S T 1 8 S U N D A Y
OPENING NUMBER: Ballet Folklorico Flor de Castilla
Isabel Gomez & Melissa Camargo, directoras
WHITE LIGHT BOLLYWOOD PRODUCTIONS
Chhavi Bhalla, director
NEVADA DANCE COMPANY
Erica & Oliver- Paul Adams, directors
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE: KEELY COBB & ALEX MEAD
OPENING NUMBER: NOTE-ABLES MUSIC THERAPY SERVICES
Wendy Firestone, director
ENTITY MOVEMENT
Sierra Taylor-Cline & Brandon Dabu, directors
BALLET FOLKLÓRICO INTERNACIONAL DE RENO Y DANZA AZTECA AZTLÁN
Mariano Lemus, Antonio Muñoz, y Anastacio Duran, directors
OPENING NUMBER: THE DAPPER TAPPERS
Lane Saunders, director
BALLET FOLKLÓRICO PUEBLO NUEVO
Belén Chávez, directora
BELLĒ CONTEMPORARY DANCE CO.
Cari Cunningham, director
DIRECTOR’S NOTE
It is an honor to direct and produce the Pioneer Center’s Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival for the third year in a row. The opportunity to work with a wide range of dance artists from across our region is both inspiring and fun.
The festival continues to grow and gather prestige. This year, 12 local dance companies applied to be considered for the 6 headlining spots. As I learn more about the variety of dance creators in our region, I’m also learning more about the diversity of humans in our community. We may not all speak the same language or share a common lived experience, but dance is the language of the heart --- it transcends words and connects us in a way no other expressive medium can. Prior to my role at the Pioneer Center, I spent close to 4 decades of my life devoted to the creation, history, and evolution of dance. I’m grateful for the experiences I had that took me around the world and back. I witnessed firsthand that we have more in common than the differences that divide us. The beautiful expression of movement is an ancient art form found across every culture. Dance unites us, and like this festival, brings us together.
The wide array of original works being performed on the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival stage are being created by people who are your neighbors, family, and friends. Every night is a different experience. We intentionally matched up companies who perform different genres in each program. You will experience forms you recognize and maybe some you don’t. If you learn something new, all the better. I am very proud of the artists chosen to perform this year. They exemplify the phrase “Dance is for everybody.” It is for you too!
Thank you to our visionary CEO, Dennyse Sewell, our incredible 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, these stunning artists, and YOU for choosing to be here! The Pioneer Center provides a stage for every story, and this signature event exemplifies that.
Enjoy the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival!
Adam Cates Festival Director
Supporting arts and culture events and programs through the City of Reno Arts & Culture Commission's annual arts and culture grants to nonprofits. Details at ww w.RenoCulture.com
2024 FESTIVAL GUEST ARTIST
Haley Davis
HALEY DAVIS is a professional dancer, choreographer and artist who grew up at her mother’s dance studio, Western Nevada Performing Arts Center in Carson City, NV under the direction of Gina Kaskie Davis. At a young age, she discovered her passion for dance and teaching and wanted to follow in her family’s footsteps.
Some credits include, Step One Dance Company on Holland America Cruise Lines, dance assistant to Kevin and Marcel Wilson in Cirque Dreams Holidaze and was also the associate choreographer for ‘In Concert,” an immersive rock show on MSC Cruise Lines. You can also see Haley as the featured dancer in Haliene’s music video titled “Whisper.” She currently tours with Adrenaline and Revive Dance Convention and teaches at Broadway Dance Center in NYC.
Haley is an affirmative and expressive artist who receives fulfillment from connecting with others. Dance, has allowed her to do just that.
ABOUT THE COMPANIES
White Light Bollywood Productions
White Light Production is a dynamic company that infuses the vibrant energy and captivating allure of Bollywood dance into the cultural landscape of Reno, Nevada. Founded on a deep-rooted passion for dance and commitment to celebrating diversity, our troupe seamlessly blends classical Indian forms with contemporary choreography to craft unforgettable performances.
Our team of dancers comes from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique experiences and artistry to the stage. Whether it’s the graceful movements of Kathak or the exuberant beats of Bhangra, our repertoire reflects the colorful spirit of Bollywood while embracing the rich diversity of the Reno community.
At White Light Productions, we are driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. We constantly push the boundaries of traditional dance, integrating modern elements and cutting-edge technology to create mesmerizing experiences for our audiences. From electrifying stage productions to immersive multimedia performances, we transport viewers into a world of rhythm, storytelling, and celebration.
Beyond our performances, we are deeply committed to engaging with our community. Through a range of classes, workshops, and outreach programs, we strive to foster a deeper appreciation for Indian culture and dance while promoting inclusivity and connection. By inspiring, entertaining, and uniting audiences in Reno and beyond, White Light Productions seeks to leave a lasting impact on hearts and minds everywhere.
Special thanks to RORN Collective for donating studio space!
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Chhavi Bhalla
Chhavi is renowned for her expertise as a Bollywood choreographer and event organizer. Through her company, White Light Bollywood Productions, she has been instrumental in spreading the joy of Bollywood dance in Reno and beyond over her impressive 17-year career.
Starting as a folk dancer, Chhavi learned from luminaries like Shiamak Davar, Vijay Ganguly, and Atul Mehtani, expanding her repertoire across various dance forms. Her performances at prestigious events like the Commonwealth Games and Filmfare Awards have fueled her passion for sharing Bollywood dance wherever she goes.
Despite her extensive experience, Chhavi remains a perpetual student continuously updating her skills and staying abreast of the latest trends. Known for her ability to connect with students of all levels, she infuses her teaching with patience and enthusiasm, earning admiration from both peers and students.
Chhavi’s creative vision shines through her productions, which blend dance, music, and storytelling to offer captivating cultural experiences. Her meticulous choreography showcases the diversity of Bollywood dance, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
Beyond the studio, Chhavi actively engages in organizing events, workshops, and cultural celebrations, fathering the influence of Bollywood dance and fusion within the community. Her contributions extend far beyond the stage, leaving an incredible mark on the world of Bollywood dance.
ABOUT THE COMPANIES
White Light Bollywood Productions
Director
Chhavi Bhalla
Dance Captain
Alice Clare Ruckstuhl
Performers
Chhavi Bhalla | Alice Clare Ruckstuhl | Diane White | Mia White | Ashwini
Kaidan Collins | Jazmin Mabunda | Yevette M. Watts-Yezek | Louise Brown | Raghav Bhalla | Bhavna Malhan | Ana Mahan | Catherine Yezek
ABOUT THE COMPANIES Nevada Dance Company
In 2020 Erica and Oliver Adams took over as Artistic Directors of the then Pinkerton Ballet Theatre. 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. Nevada Dance Company’s Artistic Directors, Erica Adams (Festival Ballet Providence, Smuin Ballet) and Oliver Adams (Birmingham Royal Ballet UK, Slovak National Ballet, Smuin Ballet) share the stage with fellow professional dancers Alexander Biber (Sacramento Ballet), Kelsey Gerber (Brockus: RED, Heidi Duckler Dance Theatre, AXIS Dance Company) as well as 9 talented dancers from the Nevada Dance Company’s Pre Professional Company. During the spring NVDC performs a mixed repertoire series in both Carson City and Reno.
In 2022 Erica and Oliver Adams decided that in order to bring high quality dance to the community year after year they would need to create a Pre Professional company in the area to produce the next generation of classically trained dancers. The Pre Professional side of the company was created in September 2022 and currently consists of 9 dancers that 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 career in dance, whether they choose to dance professionally in a dance company or to participate in dance at the university level. This year all 9 dancers attended the Regional Dance America Festival in Florida where they took master classes and performed for some of the most important names in Classical Ballet, through this festival all of the Pre Professional Company members were offered scholarships to some of the most prestigious ballet schools across the US. Erica and Oliver look forward to sharing the pre professional dancers development in dance over the coming years.
ARTISTIC DIRECTORS
Erica
& Oliver Adams
ERICA CHIPP-ADAMS (Director)
Though originally from Gardnerville, Erica left at the age of 14 to attend the prestigious ballet school,The Harid Conservatory, where she received her formal Vaganova training. In 2004 she began her professional career with Festival Ballet Providence, where some of the notable roles she danced were in Cinderella, Rodeo, Scheherazade, Carmen, Don Quixote and various Anthony Tudor and George Balanchine ballets. In 2010 she moved to San Francisco to join Smuin Contemporary Ballet where she has been featured in works by Jiri Kylian, Val Caniparoli, Ma Cong, Trey McIntyre, Helen Pickett, Amy Seiwert and many ballets by Micheal Smuin. Throughout her professional career, Erica has worked with world-renowned choreographers, toured to various countries and performed at The Joyce Theater in NYC. As a guest artist, Erica has danced the principal roles in Giselle, Coppélia, Romeo & Juliet, and Cinderella with Sierra Nevada Ballet She has also performed the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in Pinkerton Ballet Theater's, The Nutcracker, recently seen performing with her husband, OliverPaul Adams Erica's vast career has also led her to be a part of an Audi campaign and a featured performer and Emmy winner on NBC’s BaseBallet, Into the Game
OLIVER-PAUL ADAMS (Director)
Originally from Stoke-On-Trent, 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 where he danced in many of the major classical ballets. Adams joined the Slovak National Ballet in 2007 as a Soloist before going on to perform leading roles with the Sacramento Ballet, Diablo Ballet and Smuin Ballet, San Francisco, 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 He has also danced in contemporary works from some of the most important choreographers from around the world Adams has choreographed for Sacramento Ballet, Sierra Nevada Ballet, Smuin Ballet and the San Francisco Symphony Oliver continues to perform as a guest artist alongside training the next generation of performers
Nevada Dance Company
Danse Macabre
Choreography - Oliver Adams (2024)
Music - Camille Saint-Saëns
Dancers - Xander Bacon, Coco Lehmann, Jimmie Grant, Lily Johnson, Charlotte Jones, Emily Manning, Landon Newell, Sofia Sanchez, Kinzie Stahl
Tip Toe
Choreography - Oliver Adams (2024)
Music - DJ Yoda
Dancers - Erica Chipp-Adams, Oliver-Paul Adams, Alexander Biber
As Time Goes By
Choreography - Alex Biber (Premier 2013 - Sacramento Ballet)
Music - Mr. Sandman (The Chordettes) ,Sherry (Frankie Valli), House of the Rising Sun (The Animals), Stay (Maurice Williams, The Zodiacs), You’re Gonna Miss Me (Connie Francis), Unchained Melody (The Righteous Brothers), Stand By Me (Ben E. King)
Dancers - Erica Adams, Oliver Adams, Xander Bacon, Alexander Biber, Kelsey Gerber, Jimmie Grant, Lily Johnson, Charlotte Jones, Landon Newell, Sofia Sanchez, Kinzie Stahl
DANCERS
Alexander Biber - Ballet Master / Profesional Dancer
Kelsey Gerber - Profesional Dancer
Pre Professional Dancers: Xander Bacon | Jimmie Grant | Lily Johnson | Charlotte Jones | Coco Lehmann | Emily Manning | Landon
Newell | Sofia Sanchez | Kinzie Stahl
ABOUT THE COMPANIES Entity Movement
Entity Movement is a group of individual performance artists based in Northern Nevada. Over the past few years, we have shared numerous stages and participated in various events together. In 2023, we decided to unite as a collective, merging our passions and talents into one "Entity." This shift has opened up more opportunities for us to showcase our skills and highlight the significance of commercial dance in Reno. We firmly believe in the power of unity, and the festival last year was a fantastic chance to formally introduce ourselves as a dance company. We are thrilled to present our offerings in 2024 with new company members, fresh ideas, and increased collaboration. Our upcoming performance, "EVOLUTION", at the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival will showcase all company members as individuals, and us evolving together through our art.
To the Reno Dance Company, we would like to express our greatest gratitude for donating studio space to hold our rehearsals. We appreciate you all so much and are thankful for the support in our community!
ARTISTIC DIRECTORS
Sierra Taylor-Cline & Brandon Dabu
SIERRA TAYLOR-CLINE
Sierra Taylor-Cline, a dancer and choreographer originally from Las Vegas, NV, has been sharing her expertise in northern Nevada since 2012. She embarked on her dance journey at the age of eight, mastering various dance styles during her youth and early adulthood. Her dedication to the performing arts and creative direction shines through in all her endeavors, as she continuously seeks new avenues to showcase her talent Sierra has showcased her skills with multiple dance companies and productions, while also instructing at local dance studios, fueling her love for choreography and performance. She mentors young dancers in competitive settings and choreographs for diverse projects across Northern Nevada. Proficient in hip hop, heels, jazz, contemporary, and commercial dance, she excels in conveying emotions through her performances, captivating audiences with her artistic flair.
BRANDON DABU
Brandon Dabu is a dancer, choreographer and teacher based in Reno, Nevada. As a kid, Brandon always loved to dance. Some of his earlier memories of dance include teaching himself the basic techniques of waving just because he was so mesmerized by the way bodies could move so fluidly 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 through this art form. As a student and teacher 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! He continues to work hard as a dancer, choreographer, teacher and director, integrating his unique style in telling stories through movement.
Entity Movement
Performers
Sierra Taylor-Cline | Brandon Dabu | Ray Martinez | Joel Benavente | Kelly August | Lucero Martinez | Alex Moya | Alex Kaskie | Marissa Poe | Jerolyn Palacios | Alisha Johnston | Shannise Mora | Salvador Medina | Raphael Rodriguez
Special Guest Sebastian Jiménez aka "Bangaloo":
Freestyler, Skater, Cook, Teacher are some of his skills. Sebastian is originally from Colombia and is currently living in Las Vegas. He has been dancing since he was 4 years old, hugely inspired by his idol Michael Jackson. He loves funky styles, Popping, Locking and dabbling in the style known as “Waving”. These are some of the tools that have inspired him to experiment with his “Freestyle”, this has led him to local and Colombian battles. He has also danced in crews such as Deep Glame Crew, D-Three Crew, A4 Urban Crew, The Rangers and for (Copa Fox Sports, Bavaria) in Colombia. Right now he’s part of Culture Shock Las Vegas and danced (Missy Cochran Entertainment, F1, Claire Le Cam, Jalenography) in Las Vegas.
He is currently exploring different styles such as waving and Breakdance and is sharing his love of dance through teaching dance freestyle concepts and history classes.
His current mission is finding as many ways to travel and dance as possible whether it be through battles, performances, or his other passion which is teaching the history and foundation of his favorite styles. He is so grateful to be here at this event and merge 2 of his favorite loves, dance and animals, into one evening. He can’t wait to meet you.
ABOUT THE COMPANIES
Ballet Folklorico Internacional de Reno y Danza Azteca Aztlan
Los grupos Ballet Folklórico Internacional de Reno y Danza Azteca Aztlán surgieron en el 2006 con la finalidad de representar el mozaico 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.
DIRECTOR ARTISTICO
Mariano Lemus, Antonio Muñoz, & Anastacio Duran
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.
uran, Director Artístico y Bailarín
uran nació en Genaro Codina, Zacatecas, donde comenzó des por la Danza y el baile folclórico, participando en ventos educativos y civiles, llego a la ciudad de Reno en el us inicio artísticos comenzaron al ingresar al grupo de teatro na donde logro participar en diversas obras de teatro, año 2006 donde junto con otros compañeros funda el nza Azteca Aztlán en el cual funge como director artístico y e vestuarios hasta la fecha, su pasión por la danza y la an llevado a realizar grandes vestuarios que se han hecho icos del grupo como son los trajes de los guerreros Águila, y omo el Búho y la Muerte entre otros
ABOUT THE COMPANIES
Ballet Folklorico Internacional de Reno y Danza Azteca Aztlan
COREOGRAFIA:
Mariano Lemus, Antonio Muñoz, y Anastacio Duran
BAILARINES:
Yesenia Saucedo, Mariana Martínez, Lesly Victorino, Mimí Rodríguez, Boris Duran, Norma Dávila, Oscar Chávez, Polo Soriano, Quetzalli Muñoz, Libby Ballesteros, Haley Ballesteros, Janai Ballesteros, Nazareth Ballesteros, Gabriel Ballesteros, Yettzali Soto, Nithza Soto, Esmeralda Salcedo, Lupita Muñoz, Stacy Pérez, Antonio Guerrero (Conejo), Iván Vásquez, Antonio Muñoz, Anastacio Duran, Mariano Lemus, Laura Salcedo, Andrea Ballesteros, Rossy Mercado, Maria Pulgarin
para más información llame al 775-247-0210
ABOUT THE COMPANIES
Ballet Folklórico Pueblo Nuevo
Ballet folklórico Pueblo Nuevo de Reno NV. Es una asociación bajo sin lucro. Fue fundado en febrero de 2018 con el objetivo principal de mantener vivas las tradiciones, costumbres e identidad cultural. La idea surgió de Grecia Chávez, siendo adolescente, comenzó a transmitir su cultura a través del baile! El talento de bailar fue inculcado por su madre. Belén Chávez con el mismo amor por el Arte. Actualmente se desempeña como directora de Ballet Folklórico Pueblo Nuevo su obligación como directora requiere dirigir la agrupación. Que está formado por más de 60 niños, niñas y adolescentes de entre 5 y 18 años que bailan con entusiasmo y orgullo, nuestra organización no solo ayuda a los integrantes aprender de sus raíces Mexicanas, sino que expone compañerismo, disciplina y liderazgo. Omar Chávez se incorporó recientemente como instructor con gran experiencia Folklórica, pasión y dedicación a enseñar sus conocimientos de la variabilidad de bailes y las diferentes regiones. Nuestro trabajo a sido gran inspiración para que jóvenes de nuestra agrupación cómo Dayanna Guadarrama que inicio desde que comenzamos y actualmente ayuda como instructora. Estamos muy orgullosos de que nuestra pasión por el arte del Folklor siga creciendo. Es un honor poder honrar nuestra cultura mexicana a través de la danza. Cada región y estado es hogar de diversos tipos de danza, es por eso que el Ballet Folklórico Pueblo Nuevo representa con orgullo diferentes estados de México. No es solo bailar, si no también tenemos que asegurarnos de representar lo mejor que podamos, asegurándonos de que nuestro vestuario sea original artesanalmente elaborado , utilizar cada accesorio y hacer la mejor representación. Para nosotros, todo vale la pena, portamos estos vestuarios con mucho orgullo. El Ballet ha contribuido a nuevas oportunidades y abre muchas puertas para nuestros hijos y ha sido capaz de ayudar a muchos niños con su autoestima y distraerlos de muchas cosas negativas. Nuestro trabajo consiste en bailes de diferentes regiones un puente entre el pasado y el presente que no divide , al contrario une y conecta nuevas generaciones atraves de las diferentes regiones de Mexico con sus ritmos , bailes, colores y sones que expresan la viva imagen de Mexico. No somos solo un grupo de baile, sino también una familia!
ABOUT THE COMPANIES
Ballet Folklórico Pueblo Nuevo
Belén Chávez (Directora)
Belén Chávez directora de Ballet Folklórico pueblo nuevo orgullosamente Mexicana, mi amor desde la infancia por el arte me an motivado a trasmitir y apoyar mi cultura. Como un reto más ! Trabajar como directora instructora del grupo me caracteriza por expresar los bailes populares de épocas y regiones de Mexico trasmitir y apoyar mi cultura rodeada de niños, niñas y jóvenes es mi mejor grano de arena que puedo dejar en la vida.
ABOUT THE COMPANIES bellē contemporary dance co. in House(hold) Name
CARI K. CUNNINGHAM (founder) is an Associate Professor of Dance at the University of Nevada, Reno and the founder of bellē contemporary dance co. She has created numerous choreographic works, both on students at UNR and for her company, including three eveninglength pieces – TIES (2009), on being fuller (2019), and House(hold) Name which premiered in May of this year.
Cunningham’s choreography has been performed in Oregon, Colorado, California, Massachusetts, Virginia, Mexico, New York City (La Mama Experimental Theater, DUMBO Dance Festival, Green Space Take Root, and the CoolNY Dance Festival), and for the 80th anniversary of the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival. Most recently she presented a new solo work “going with my gut” for the 2024 Bill Evans Somatic Dance Conference in Port Townsend, Washington.
bellē contemporary dance co., founded in 2008, is an all-female project-based company located in Northern Nevada. The name bellē is derived from the intersection of the French word for beautiful and the English term for our midsection.
Cunningham’s choreography for the company seeks to expose the beauty and power of the soft underbelly (the core, the womb, the center of the body) through movement, sound, costume, and video.
If you’re interested in learning more about House(hold) Name you can visit the “New Project” page on the company website at www.caricunningham.com
CHOREOGRAPHY
Cari Cunningham in collaboration with the dancers
PERFORMERS
Eve Allen Garza, Caitlin Bell, Cari Cunningham, Loie Cunnigham Mosher, Kat Eccles, Alexander Jay Hurtado, Eleonora Mae Hurtado, Natalie Rose Hurtado, Fletcher Anthony Knipe, Jennie Pitts Knipe, Angela Ritchie, Benjamin Elwyn Ritchie, Samuel Faelen Ritchie, Deena Schmidt, Maggie Stack, Alex Urza, and Kimberly Yukes* *courtesy of Sierra Nevada Ballet
To learn more about the dancers and this project, please visit https://shorturl.at/fcX0d
SOUNDSCORE
Arranged by Cari Cunningham Music: Eminem; Simon & Garfunkel; The Beatles; Ólafur Arnalds; Rockabye Baby!; Hauschka; John Cougar; Michael Wall; Brandi Carlile; Helen Jane Long; Laura Branigan
Text:from interviews with the full original cast (including Teryn Burkhardt, Erica Coffelt, and Mandy Flocchini) and their children (recorded by Darryl “DJ” Jackson, VectraSound Recording Studio)
PRODUCTION & DESIGN
Costume Design: Cari Cunningham & Argyle BrookeLynn Mikkelsen
Costume Construction: Argyle BrookeLynn Mikkelsen
Child Manager and Choreographic Assistant: Jenna Fortino
Audience Survey: Trannon Mosher
SPECIAL THANKS
Trannon Mosher
Darryl “DJ” Jackson, VectraSound Recording Studio
Jenna Fortino
This project received support from:
The Nevada Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the University of Nevada, Reno College of Liberal Arts Scholarly and Creative Activities Grant Program
Isabel Gomez & Melissa Camargo, directoras Es una Compañía de Danza Tradicional Mexicana, bajo la dirección de Isabel Gómez y Melissa Camargo. Estamos orgullosos de haber prestado servicios en Reno, NV y las comunidades circundantes durante los últimos 15 años. Con más de 20 años de experiencia bailando Ballet Folklórico, Melissa e Isabel se han unido para crear un increíble equipo de bailarines y sus grandes logros, que incluyen presentaciones en Disneyland California Adventure Park, el Festival de la Herencia Hispana de El Segundo, el Festival Danzantes Unidos y nuestro más reciente Aún así, nuestra próxima presentación en Universal Studio's Hollywood, el 26 de octubre de 2024.
Not better, not worse, just different. Note-Able Music Therapy Services (NMTS) believes everyone should have the chance to sing, dance and make music. The NMTS Dance Troupe is a result of more than a decade of dancers with disabilities creating and performing throughout the Reno/Sparks community. By telling their story, they hope to erase the stigma of living with a disability. Not better, not worse, just different.
Wendy Firestone (Choreographer)
Dancers:
Bev Carpenter, Sierra Foos, Jamie Jepson, Kaitlin “KK” Kelderman, Brianne Knight, Marci Tiffee
Title of Piece: "I Am"
Music Used: Medley of songs by Beautiful Chorus (Pavana, I Am Perfect As I Am, The Jungle), mixed by the NMTS Electronic Music Project
OPENING ACTS
The Dapper Tappers (Sunday)
From classic tap styles to complex rhythms and everything in between, The Dapper Tappers from Reno, Nevada can do it all. The members of this company bring music to life as they dance with a love of tap and a passion to perform. Established in 2023, The Dapper Tappers create visual and audible pieces of art to a vast variety of music. Collaborating with other artists and using a history of many dance styles, they offer performances anyone can enjoy.
Lane Saunders (Choreographer)
Dancers: Rose Barber-Calicrate, Laura Gamett, Amanda Giles, Alyssa Kleszyk, Lily Melarkey, Kyla Olsen, Andrew Paiz, Kiara Saunders, Lane Saunders, Logan Strand, Naomi Thompson
Title of Piece: "Under the Big Top"
Music Used: "Carousel" by Circus Contraptions "Roustabout" by Beats Antique
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE (FRIDAY)
KEELY COBB is a director, choreographer, performer, and producer, pursuing her MFA in Experience Design and Production with a Specialization in Producing at The California Institute of the Arts. She is the new Creative Director for MashUp Contemporary Dance Company in Los Angeles. While in Reno, Cobb was the 2020 Artown Commissioned Artist, founder of Around the Stage | Theatrical Dance Company, and Resident Choreographer for Good Luck Macbeth Theatre Company, where she now serves on the advisory board. Cobb has produced, choreographed, and directed eight full-length dance works, choreographed films and music videos, and collaborated with Reno’s theatre companies. She has performed with Rosie Trump | Future Moves, BLV Productions, and Karen Burns Productions, and at festivals like Going Dutch in Chicago and The Cleveland Dance Festival. www.keelycobb.com @keelyraincobb and @aroundthestage
ALEX MEAD Alex Mead (he/him), a student at the University of Nevada, Reno studying Theater, is excited to do his first show at The Pioneer Center and receive his first professional dance credit. He is thrilled to work with Keely Cobb in this performance celeb ti th k h h d i R Nev
Piece title: "Release" Song: "Still There" by Dirtwire, Jed and Lucia
Bringing the power of live performance to Northern Nevada’s youth since 1967.
Connecting Broadway with Northern Nevada’s theater community.
Sponsoredby:
Providing lifelong learning entertainment to Northern Nevada’s seniors.
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 fulltime 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.
FESTIVAL STAFF
DENNYSE SEWELL (Festival 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:
Video Designer, Asst. Technical Director, & Sound Operator – Eric Skye
Asst. Technical Director & Stage Crew – Bryce Hall
Stage Manager – Benjamin Browder
Asst. Festival Director: Heather Lemmons
Marketing & Playbill Design – Jordyn Mahoney
Public Relations, Graphic, & Logo Design – Courtney Meredith, Design on Edge Food Truck Coordinator – Demerey Grant
SPCA of Northern Nevada Staff – Jill Vacchina Dobbs, Nayla Garcia, Laura Van Antwerp, Sydney Denham
Students engage in the rigorous physical practice of dance training, while simultaneously developing a deep understanding of the historical, cultural, and performative lineage that underpins the field of dance.
Participating dance companies submitted a detailed proposal to be considered for the inaugural Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival. These were reviewed by a select panel of local and national arts leaders and dance experts. Panelists offered their advice on content and programming structure, and scored each proposal using criteria such as artistic quality, educational value, and diversity. We are grateful to each panelist for donating their time and expertise to this event. Learn about each of them below:
ALEXIS ARELENE 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, Frank Sinatra School for the Arts and ABTs Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis school including ABT outreach and teacher training. She is honored to be on the ABT National Training Curriculum Board of Examiners and Advisory Board
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 studio in New Jersey.
ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL
BRITNEY IRWIN commenced her journey dazzling audiences in production shows worldwide. Mentored by choreographers linked to icons like Madonna and Janet Jackson, she honed her craft to perfection In 2011, Britney's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish BLV Productions, revolutionizing entertainment for casinos, nightlife, and corporate events. Her visionary approach earned her the prestigious title of Best Casino Show of the Year. Beyond her accolades, Britney remains a beacon of support, nurturing talent and fostering their entry into the industry. With each step, she continues to redefine the boundaries of entertainment, leaving her mark and style on each stage
DEB LEAMY is primarily a theatre artist who made NYC her home for more than 20 years and recently completed a 2-yr lecturer term at UNR teaching Music Theatre On Broadway, she performed in Sweet Smell of Success w/John Lithgow, originated the role of Margaret in Never Gonna Dance, and was an original cast member of the Tony-winning musical Fosse. She’s performed nationally, internationally, and regionally in such musicals as Chicago, Phantom of the Opera, A Chorus Line, West Side Story, and Joseph…Dreamcoat. She’s performed on renowned stages such as Carnegie Hall and Radio City Musical Hall, appearing in many TV commercials, on the Tony Awards twice, and in The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Founder of the West Coast (SF) version of the illustrious NYC AIDS benefit, Broadway Bares, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Director/choreographer and Realtor with Dickson Realty.
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
ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL
DR. ELIZABETH VILLALOBOS is a scholar of contemporary Latin American literature, theater, and cinema She has conducted research on border studies and human rights in Mexico, Argentina, and Germany. Her research focuses on human rights and the intersections of gender, neoliberalism, and violence represented in prose, theater, and cinema of Mexico’s borders, as well as in Argentina’s testimonial narrative, performance art, and political theater.
EVE ALLEN GARZA is a dancer, dance educator and choreographer in Reno. She is a Teaching Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance at UNR. Eve is the founder and director of the Downtown Dance Collective, a collaborative dance organization that aims to bring together local talent and present accessible performances to our community. Eve performs locally with A.V.A. Ballet Theatre, Belle Contemporary Dance Company and Rosie Trump | With or Without Dance. She is an active member of the Royal Academy of Dance and teaches syllabus classes for all levels at The Conservatory of Movement. She is a registered teaching artist for the Nevada Arts Council and uses the Kennedy Center's definition of arts integration in her workshops for K-12 educators and students.
GEORGE WADE is A newer resident to Reno, George Wade is President of Bay Laurel Advisors, a boutique entertainment consulting firm serving clients on a worldwide basis The company focuses on the development of high-end, Location Based Entertainment (LBE) projects including theme parks, themed attractions and interactive entertainment venues. Mr. Wade is also a leading expert in branding and brand development within the LBE industry. Major clients have included MGM Studios, Cartoon Network, Crayola, Hasbro, Angry Birds and the Hallmark Channel. During his career, he has contributed to some of the industry’s most prestigious projects including EPCOT Center, Tokyo Disneyland, Universal Studios Florida and The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace to name just a few. Mr. Wade and his wife are active in many aspects of life in Reno and are ongoing subscribers to programs at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts.
Tardes Mix
Entre Ellas Sábado 12pm
ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL
GIA MONGELL BINNER trained at the Atlanta Dance Theater before going on to receive her BFA from The Juilliard School. She was an original cast member of Christopher Wheeldon’s Tony-winning Broadway musical An American in Paris, also performing in the US National Tour and Paris, France productions Other credits include Legacies (CW), The 69th Tony Awards (CBS), The Metropolitan Opera’s Cendrillion, Encores! at New York City Center, BC/EFA’s Easter Bonnet, and the Under Armour commercial campaign with Misty Copeland. Gia holds an MFA in Dance from Hunter College. She currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia where she is the Director of the preprofessional company Movement Collective under the Roswell Dance Theatre.
GREG ULIASZ is an agent in the New York office of McDonald Selznick Associates (MSA Agency), where he represents a diverse roster of high caliber Creatives and Performers, working across all mediums. Choreographers on Greg’s roster have worked on Television, Film, the Broadway stage, Las Vegas spectaculars, and more. Prior to working as an agent, Greg worked on numerous productions as the Associate to Tony Nominee and legend, Patricia Birch. Greg also previously worked as an NYC Casting Director His cast of Happy Birthday Wanda June received a New York Times Critic’s Pick Additionally, he cast The Lightning Thief, the Drama Desk Nominated Best Musical that also played Broadway His cast can be heard on the top-selling original cast album Greg holds a master’s degree in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University. His undergraduate degree is from the prestigious Theatre Arts Program at Marymount Manhattan College.
TE HUTTER MASON is the owner of Stomping Ground L.A., a mmunity arts space in East L A Kate also co-founded the L A ntemporary Dance Company in 2005, held the Artistic rectorship from 2005 – 2015, and is Board President day Additionally, Kate works as Director of Strategic tiatives for the aerospace design and manufacturing mpany, Click Bond.Kate is an alumnus of the Walnut Hill hool and holds a BFA from USC and an MFA in Dance from rchase College. Kate has presented her choreography at nues throughout L.A. and was the movement director for the nd, Foster the People, on their 2013 Summer Tour. Kate is an junct 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 was a Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival performing Guest Artist in 2023.
ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL
LIAMSON is an L.A. based dance artist, Lester Horton Award a Bates Educators Fellow, and Center Theatre Group Award Finalist. His choreography has been presented by ceProject REDCAT’s NOW Festival, Dixon Place, ulse, LACMA, Austin’s OUTsider Festival, Minnesota Fringe, ary Theater, and the Beijing Dance Festival. Dances for d opera include choreography for Washington National antic Theatre Company, the Juilliard School, Geffen , Yale Theater, and Opera UCLA; and commissioned works for MU, and AMDA. Kevin was a dancing member of David REALITY, Maria Gillespie’s Oni Dance, LA Contemporary mpany, Robert Moses’ Kin, and David Gordon’s formance; guest work includes Angelin Preljocai, Julie eidi Duckler, Sebastian Prantl, and Ryan Heffington He his BA and MFA in Choreography from UCLA’s Department of s 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 Kevin was a featured Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival guest artist in 2023.
KRIS SWACZYNA (“Mr. Kris”), a distinguished figure in dance, choreography, and directing known for his dynamic and multifaceted skill set, has recently opened the state-of-the-art Northern Nevada Ballet Academy. His unique fusion dance style, influenced by diverse sources, makes him a captivating performer Collaborating with global artists like Mats Ek, Sławomir and Irena Woźniak, Travis Payne, and Kenny Ortega, Mr Kris has made his mark on the dance stage. Notable credits include Mr. Mistoffelees in Cats and performances in Franco Dragone’s Le Rêve. Hailing from Poland, Kris Swaczyna began his dance journey at nine, graduating from the National Ballet School in Warsaw. Excelling in ballet, he transitioned into musical theater and commercial jazz, gaining fame as Poland's top Michael Jackson impersonator in 2004. With over two decades of experience, Mr. Kris continues to captivate audiences with his unparalleled onstage energy and distinctive style, now as the founder of the Northern Nevada Ballet Academy
NA YOUNG PhD, is a dance artist, myth scholar, d Somatics Educator. Informed by her diverse neage, Martina’s aesthetic is grounded in an worldview, a moral imagination, and a deep sense of s. A multi-year Fellow of the National Endowment for nd recipient of Nevada’s Governor’s Arts Award for e in the Arts, she has maintained a ‘radical hospitality’ er artist loft, The Lighthouse/Studio 5 O 2 since nging together artists, civic leaders, and community Recognized as the solo dancer in Stevie Wonder’s eo Ribbon in the Sky and in filmmaker Julie Dash’s ning film, Four Women, Martina currently teaches The tice® dance/movement for persons living with Parkinson’s Disease. Visit: www.apoeticbody.com
ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL
MARY ROBERTS MFA (School of Dance, Florida State University), is a distinguished choreographer-director, dance educator, and Instructor of Dance at the University of Alabama. With a background in choreography and show supervision for prestigious organizations like RWS Productions and Iberostar Resorts, Mary has also contributed her talent to renowned cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Lines, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas. Her expertise extends to events for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and the successful launch of Celebrity Beyond as Project Manager for the captivating Eden space Mary excels in choreographing and directing shows both onstage and in immersive settings, delivering exceptional entertainment experiences to global audiences.
MATTHEW DAVIES Born and raised in Utah, Matthew Davies began his professional career at the young age of 15, dancing for Radio Disney - performing at exclusive movie premiers and concerts with artists such as The Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, and more Matthew triple majored in college, receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music, Dance, and Theatre While there he had the opportunity of performing in Beijing, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and touring across North America. Upon finishing his degree, he moved to New York City and has since been seen on multiple Broadway national tours, including Cinderella and Finding Neverland. Matthew recently released his debut album Not Standard available on all streaming platforms.
MAVIS SCULLY has performed in just about every genre of performing arts. Her nationwide career is an eclectic mix of classical ballet, plays, musicals, cabarets, performance art, Renaissance fairs, commercials, and voice overs. An original member of Walt Disney World’s Comedy Warehouse (prototype for Whose Line Is It Anyway?), she coaches actors and singers in her North Carolina home studio InsideOut Coaching and teaches ballet and musical theatre at the Charlotte Ballet Academy. Mavis also teaches Acting, Physical Theatre, Speech & Dialects, and Musical Theatre intensives around the country. She has coached professional and aspiring actors, singers and dancers for many years and loves mentoring passionate driven performers! www mavisscullyinsideout com
Thanksgiving Day, 2024
Race starts at 9am Wingfield Park (2 S Arlington St)
Participants earn a unique finisher's medal & a big sense of accomplishment on Thanksgiving morning!
ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL
MEGAN BERNER is a visual artist and arts professional living and working in Reno, NV Coming from a multi-disciplinary and nontraditional 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.
CHELLE TOLSON is an award-winning dancer and oreographer with over 35 years of experience in the industry. chelle is a former Miss New Hampshire and competed in Miss erica in 1996. She is also a former Radio City Rockette where performed at Radio City Music Hall for six years, and on the cy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Today Show, and The Isaac rahi Show, to name a few A former professor at Wagner lege, she currently teaches at The American Musical and amatic Academy in NYC, is a founding Thrive Dance perience Faculty teacher, a founding faculty member for urish Performing Arts in NYC, and the dance director at nbee Fine Arts and Dance Camp. Michelle is the co-host of podcast JAM Joe and Michelle’s Dance Podcast, which can heard on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you stream your favorite shows.
NAOMI KAKUK has been a New York based dancer, actor and associate director/choreographer for more than 20 years She has appeared on Broadway (original casts and recordings of New York New York, The Producers and Sondheim’s The Frogs), on tours (including CATS, Chicago, and Spamalot), and at Radio City Music Hall as a Rockette (6 years). Other favorite stage credits include The Beast in the Jungle (Vineyard Theatre, Chita Rivera Award nominee), Contact (Girl In a Yellow Dress, North Shore MT), A Very Murray Christmas, Madame Secretary, SMASH, Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Producers (2005 feature film), and numerous talk show and commercial appearances. Associate/assistant director/choreographer credits include SMASH (upcoming Broadway), Left On Tenth (upcoming Broadway), POTUS...., The Right Girl, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Shakespeare in the Park) She trained at many major ballet schools including San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet and the Rock School, and holds a BFA In Ballet from the University of Utah
ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL
NETTIE OLIVERIO is a partner with Foothill Partners Urban Development in the position of Arts and Culture Director She collaborates in 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 on the Nevada Arts Council Board. In 2017 Nettie was the recipient of the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada’s (EDAWN) Lifetime Achievement Award for Innovation and Stewardship of the Arts in Nevada
SHANNA VANDERWERKER Director/choreographer Shanna VanDerwerker’s credits include Porchlight Music Theatre, Mercury Theater Chicago (Jeff Award Winning Spamalot), the Chicago premiere of Lysistrata Jones for Refuge Theater Project (Jeff Nomination), Head Over Heels at Columbia College Chicago, 9 to 5 at Tantrum Theatre, Ohio University, and 13 shows at The Fireside Theatre in Fort Atkinson, WI, where favorites include Saturday Night Fever, 42nd St, Newsies, and Singin' In The Rain Associate Choreographer to Christopher Gattelli for almost 20 years, including on Broadway’s High Fidelity. Performance credits: Wicked (Broadway and 1st National Tour), Mary Poppins, Singin’ In The Rain, H2$ (Fireside Theatre), Kiss Me, Kate (TUTS), dre.dance company, and Walt Disney World. Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Point Park University. Adjunct Faculty at Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts and Visceral Dance Center. 25-year member of AEA. shannavdance.com
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 off-Broadway 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.
ARTISTIC ADVISORY REVIEW PANEL
YVETTE TUCKER originally began her career as a ballet dancer and counts festivals such as this as a launching pad for her performing endeavors Classically trained at The Joffrey Ballet, Hartford Ballet and Academy of Nevada Dance Theatre among others, Yvette’s credits include performing as a guest artist and principal dancer for The Los Angeles Opera, Palm Beach Opera, Opera Pacifica, Santa Fe Opera, Pittsburgh Opera and Arizona Opera. In her musical theatre career, favorite roles include Ivy Smith in On the Town (Papermill Playhouse), Claudine in CanCan (Pasadena Playhouse), and Vera Baronova in On Your Toes (Encore, LA) where she was nominated for an Ovation Award for best actress Film and tv credits include Palm Trees and Power Lines, Gangster Squad, The Curious Case of Benjammin Button, Bad Trip, Lone Star, Physical, This is Us, Welcome to Chippendales, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and Penny Dreadful. Yvette lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two children. @yvettetucker13
ABOUT THE PIONEER CENTER
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 per formance
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.
September 21st & 22nd
October 15th
17th November 29th & 30th August 23rd September 3rd-8th
