THE DANCE

“Great dancers are not great because of their technique; they are great because of their passion. Dance is the hidden language of the soul.”

The spirit of Martha Graham was backstage at recent competitions where our dancers definitely danced with that passion. In January, we attended the 24 Seven Dance Convention. Our small mountain studio competed against the titans and triumphed, winning golds and high golds and a second place overall achievement for a student-choreographed teen entry. In addition to our 17 awards, four of our students won scholarships in the areas of tap, jazz and ballet.

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Last week, seven of our finest dancers competed in the New York City Dance Alliance, considered one the most difficult competitions in the nation. We came home with a high gold and, best of all, our studio won the Sportsmanship Award for helping other studios backstage and cheering them on no matter how competitive they may have been. Way to go, girls!

Next up is the Jump Dance Convention this weekend in Westminster. Nearly 30 dancers and five of our teachers will attend the convention competing against the best dance schools in the West. Watch us live via the webcast from 4 to 6 p.m. today and from 3:50 to 9:45 p.m. Saturday at https://www.mybreakthefloor.com. Your support would mean the world to us!

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We could never have done it without our “Center Stars” sponsors: Alpine Bank, Columbine Ford, SurvCo, Dirt Devil Excavation and the Hofert Family.

A special thank you to my amazing teaching staff: Maurine Taufer, Laura Bahr, Dana Peterson, Kari Sea, Katie Deyoe, Bella Barnum and Neal Stiles, who train our talented dancers. Lastly, thanks to the parents and friends who support our dancers. The endless hours of rehearsal, driving, costume changes, love, glitter, lipstick and hugs is unmatched. You help make dreams come true. Thanks so much.

If you are interested in joining one of our dance companies, taking a class or even becoming a competitive dancer, call me for details at 945-2414.

DANCERS DANCING

You don’t have to travel to experience some of the best dancing around. Our annual dance extravaganza will be at the Glenwood Springs High School auditorium on April 17, 18 and 19. Dancers from all of our classes will dazzle the senses and take you on an amazing ride. Call us about individual and corporate ad opportunities and receive tickets to the concert.

SPRING BREAK CREATIVE INTENSIVE

Our superbly talented painter, potter and textile artist, Josefina Gordh, will be conducting three classes in art, ceramics and textiles for kids ages 8-12 from 9:30 a.m. to noon March 25-27. Your child can take one, two or all three days for a wonderful hands-on experience with painting, wheel throwing, stencil and dye. Space is limited, so call for details.

INAUGURAL APPRECIATION GALA

Next Friday night, March 6, we say thank you in a very elegant way when we honor the Art Center members, donors, sponsors, volunteers and Summer of Music supporters with a beautiful evening of entertainment, art and sumptuous refreshments.

We will celebrate a very successful 2014 and share our exciting plans for 2015 including our Summer of Music line-up. Enjoy music by The Confluents and marvel at the fabulous 6×6 art exhibit as you mingle with staff, board members, friends and neighbors.

Not a member, sponsor or donor? Here are three easy ways to join the festivities: Make a donation or purchase an Individual or Family membership at the door, or if you have already purchased a 6×6 canvas, come and enjoy a wonderful evening.

See you at 6:30 p.m. on March 6 at the Glenwood Springs Center for the Arts, 601 E. 6th St., when we celebrate you.

Christina Brusig is the executive director of the Glenwood Springs Center for the Arts. She can be reached at christina@glenwoodarts.org.