by Lori Biagi, Executive Director, Steamboat Dance Theatre
Dance has powerful physical and mental health implications that span generations and all demographics. For example, dance has been proven to slow neurodegenerative disease and boost longevity in the aging population. Steamboat Dance Theatre (SDT) is a 501C3 organization that has been a dance resource and network in our community since 1972. We reach over 3000 people annually through our Annual Community Concert, various programs, and scholarships. As a centralized hub for local dance events, the Steamboat Dance Theatre’s mission is to Engage, Educate, and Enrich the communities of the Yampa Valley through Dance and Movement. SDT is most well known for its flagship program: the Annual Community Concert, in which anyone, regardless of dance background or skill level, can participate. It’s a fantastic outreach and experience that fills the stage with love and passion.
Early last fall, SDT entered a new chapter of life, as I was brought on board as its first full-time Executive Director. My role is to empower the organization to broaden and deepen its community impact by expanding programming and increasing collaborations. For example, last year, the World Dance in Schools Program grew community-wide into all 3rd and 5th grade classrooms. Also, the newly established Dance Vitality Program explores the benefits of dance related to aging, athletic performance, and mental health and provides free classes accordingly. We have increased scholarship dollars by almost 50%, expanded the program to include adults, and created a first-class free program. Additionally, we are building relationships and collaborations with organizations such as Queer Futures and the Boys & Girls Club of NW Colorado.
Another exciting new venture is our first-ever Local Dance Collective. Join us for the inaugural fundraising event, which brings together area studios, artists, educators, and troupes to perform under one roof to benefit SDT scholarships and programming. Held on September 27 & 28 at 7PM in the Strings Pavilion, this event will feature a diverse range of dance styles, from classical ballet to contemporary hip-hop. It’s your chance to see what Steamboat offers in terms of classes and opportunities as we showcase those paving the way in the Steamboat dance world. Featuring local favorites such as Elevation Dance Studio, Goodhart’s Dancin’, Bella Movement, Perry Mansfield, Steamboat Academy Of Music And Dance, Yampa Valley Vixens, Jasmir Belly Dance, and Forty106 Dance Project, it will be entertaining for the whole family. Grab your seats today before they sell out.
Tickets are available online on the Strings website.
Through various programs and community outreach, we bridge the gap between a high cost of living and accessibility to the arts, creating space and opportunities for all who wish to experience dance. I invite you to visit our website at Steamboatdancetheatre.org to learn more or connect with me at any time. I am so honored to lead the charge in this impactful and powerful organization. Thank you for your support!
Happy Dancin’, Lori Biagi~
