Dancers in a ballet class stand in first position with raised arms around barres in a spacious studio with mirrored walls and industrial-style architecture.

A Home for Young Dancers

Karah Abiog, founder of The Training Ground SF, describes how she provides a supportive space for young dancers to grow artistically, bridge the gap to professional careers, and contribute to a revitalized Bay Area dance community.

May 11, 2026 | Read Article

Quynn Johnson is a Black woman dressed in a sleeveless, denim jumpsuit and silver sparkled loafers, dancing in a pool of light. She glances toward the floor as she shifts her weight from one foot to the other. There is a drum set in the background catching some of the light and a collection of living room decorations, including a lamp and a stool, piled in the foreground.

Spreading the Joy of Rhythm and Movement

Quynn Johnson, a Maryland-based master tap dancer and teaching artist, fuses tap, sand dance, and body percussion to tell stories in classrooms and on stages around the world.

March 23, 2026 | Read Article

Elaine is pictured before mountains and a sunset. She holds one hand in front of her chest and the other in front of her mouth, palms in.

Living and Sharing Pacific Island Culture

Elaine Talamaivao, a Polynesian dancer and educator and the director of Tala Mai Moana in Southern California, brings her lived experience with Samoan, Hawaiian, and Māori cultures to her community.

March 10, 2025 | Read Article

A hoop dancer wearing vibrant regalia with yellow light dramatically lighting them and holding rings of hoops in intricate formations.

Creating a Stage to Share Native Culture

Woodland Sky Native American Dance Company tells historic stories using traditional Native American songs and dances with the goal of educating audiences about Native American stories, culture, and values.

March 3, 2025 | Read Article

Kate has her arms in front of her face, one hand opening in front of her face and the other arm ending at the wrist. She wears a black shirt that says "The future is accessible." Her hair is in a bun.

Rethinking Disabled Leadership in Dance

Kate Marsh, a disabled dance artist, researcher, and an assistant professor at Coventry University in the UK, reflects on how the discourse on disability has evolved during her career.

February 6, 2025 | Read Article