Blog. Company d
Dance Teacher Magazine, April 2011
Published May 29, 2011 9:45:00 AM :: Permalink
Leaping Forward by Sara Hoover
Among rows of dancers bending and stretching at the University of Memphis is a life lesson. The theatre and dance department is revealing a dancer that is not defined by mastery of the plié, but by heart. And these groups have more than enough.
Pam Hurley’s Jazz II class was transformed into a showcase for Luigi’s method, considered the first formal jazz dance technique. U of M students and Company d, a dance troupe of young adults with Down syndrome, warmed up and then each performed.
The idea for the pairing came from two U of M alumni: Hurley, adjunct professor of dance in the College of Communications and Fine Arts, and Darlene Winters, Company d’s artistic director and choreographer.
“Darlene and I have both studied with Luigi in New York,” says Hurley (MArch ’10). “We started talking about the opportunities here (in Memphis) and that I was teaching at the University. Since everyone does Luigi, it would be great for them to come together and share in the experience.”
Louis “Luigi” Faccuito developed his technique after a serious car accident in 1946 left him partially paralyzed, and he was told he’d never walk again, let alone dance. He taught himself not only to stand, but to move and dance. Considered the father of modern jazz dance, he went on to dance in many iconic silver screen musicals.
“Luigi’s technique is holistic. It’s about being kind to your body, learning to move through your body, listening to your heart and dancing with heart and soul as opposed to being purely technical because that makes a better dancer,” says Hurley. “If you’re dancing from your soul, from the heart, for the joy of moving, then people are excited to watch you and excited to dance with you. His technique is very, very special in that regard.”
Company d is a nonprofit organization in Memphis, founded in 2001. Dance members are 13 to 32 years old.
Dancers’ parents selected the name.
(Above left) U of M students and Company d dancers, a troupe of individuals with Down syndrome, perform together on campus. (Above right) Brittany Carter, paired with senior Allie Roberts (rear), shows that anyone can dance, the theme of the mixed ability workshop. Photos by Lindsey Lissau.
“Parents looked for names that didn’t define us,” says Winters (BA ’75, MA ’78). “The d came from do, difficult, desire, diligent and dance. We’re always adding a d-word. I’ve explored that with (the dancers).”
This isn’t the first partnership between the U of M and Company d. In 2008, Winters brought her group to another of Hurley’s classes. Both women hope to continue the collaboration.
“We would love to see this continue because the dancers don’t get the opportunity to go to college, so this is big for them to come on campus and be with students,” says Winters.
Some U of M students worked with Company d in summer dance workshops.
“The fact that our students are able to go work with Company d and Darlene is a great opportunity,” says Hurley. “Company d is incredibly inspiring and they’re so professional. They set the bar high, which is exciting.”
So high, in fact, that they were invited to New York to celebrate Luigi’s 85th birthday and perform along with a select group of professional performers.
Company d is not the only special population that the theatre and dance department is working with. This past summer, a workshop to expand dance to include more people and accessibility was offered.
Dr. Moira Logan, associate dean in the College of Communication and Fine Arts, held a dance workshop as part of the Memphis in May Student Affairs Conference at the U of M. The interactive workshop was dance for all sizes, shapes and mixed ability, including people with limited mobility like those in wheelchairs.
Logan wanted to deconstruct the myth of who can dance and promote the idea of dance as an expressive art form rather than dance as therapy for special populations.
“Dance can be done by anyone,” she says. “I’ve never felt it should be restricted. There are people who are gifted dancers who maybe don’t fit any particular mold: people who don’t have the perfect body or people in wheelchairs or a variety of disabilities that we would normally think would keep you from dancing.”
Thirteen participants performed modern dance with improvisation techniques.
Brittany Carter, a professional studies major and wheelchair-bound student, found the workshop to be enlightening.
“I am very active in the field of people with disabilities and anything that can possibly give me or my community options, I’m willing to see. I believe I can do whatever I want as well as anybody else can. You’re not not able to do anything.”
Carter considers the workshop a door opener for people with disabilities and learned that “what you have, which may be very little, you can do a lot with.”
The workshop, a first-time offering, taught exactly what Logan hoped participants might learn: “Limitations are not necessarily limitations but open up possibilities.”
“I love this art form and access is important. There’s this dancer in us all. We all are born with the ability to move and even people who have tremendous disability have some ability to move,” says Logan.
Allie Roberts, a dance education major, witnessed that lesson first-hand.
“I hoped to get a new perspective or way of teaching and learning. I had never thought about dancing with someone in a wheelchair or with any sort of physical disability. It was just so beautiful to see that. We’re all so capable no matter the disability.”
Logan plans to continue to offer the workshop and possibly teach a special topics course that trains students on how to work with people with disabilities, which is a potential employment opportunity. This is an area Roberts is already exploring.
“I’m already thinking up ideas to create a class for the community for kids who have disabilities, even at schools. I’m planning on working in the school system, so that will be something very interesting and fun and enlightening.”
Logan hopes students with disabilities who might not usually consider a dance class will take one.
“Everybody can do something that’s interesting and moving and beautiful in its own way.
Published Sep 25, 2010 6:20:00 AM :: Permalink
Company d featured on PBS station in Tennessee
Creative License is produced by TRC Media, in partnership with the Tennessee Arts Commission. TRC Media is the television production arm of The Renaissance Center, a non-profit education facility dedicated to the fine arts and music.
“d” Is For Dance Host Barry Scott
This unique dance company from Memphis had its beginning as a one-time-only dance routine for graduates of an early intervention program for children with Down Syndrome. The success of that led parents to create an ongoing effort with Company d artistic director, Darlene Winters.
And Company d has been going ever since. This group of dedicated young people sign a letter of commitment, push themselves through exhausting rehearsals, and travel to perform at venues in cities like St. Louis, Atlanta, and New York. These ‘challenged’ people raise themselves to take on even more challenges. But these dancers are doing more than learning the art of movement to music - they’re learning how to live.
It’s the parameters of what I call- even though we’re under the umbrella of dance - the life skills. Because they’ve had to learn what it means to show up for class, build up their stamina, sustain their focus, support each other, and also -that which is sometimes hard for all of us- taking corrections and feedback, and raising it to a higher level.
– Darlene Winters, artistic director
The ‘d’ in Company d stands for “dance”, and so much more. It’s ‘d’ for determination, dedication, drive, discipline, difference... and dream. To learn more about this remarkable dance troupe, its mission and goals, just visit their website at www.companyddancers.com.Television Specials on PBS stations in Tennessee
Creative License is a series of one-hour specials about the arts, artists, and art education across Tennessee. Told in magazine style format, this program features stories about the unique people and personalities who create the arts. We focus greatly on how art changes the lives of people - those who create it and those whom it inspires.
http://www.creativelicensetv.com/
Published Aug 18, 2010 8:54:00 PM :: Permalink
Company d sponsors community classes with Francis Roach, from world famous Luigi's Jazz Center
Jazz dance technique workshop with Francis J. Roach from the world famous Luigi’s Jazz Center, NYC. Workshop will be June 8 and 9, 6:00-8:00, fee is $25. Workshop class will be held at:
Studio B,
2115 Merchants Row,
Germantown TN.
Call 901.335.8388 or email companyd14@aol.com for information. Registration approximately one-hour prior to class.
Mr. Roach has traveled around the world teaching the Luigi Technique from Amsterdam, Brazil, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Japan to South Africa. Students of Luigi Technique include dance & choreography greats Liza Minnelli, Twyla Tharp, Ben Vereen, Susan Stroman, Bob Fosse and many, many more. Luigi, who is now 85 still teaches daily classes, at the Luigi Jazz Centre in New York. Do not miss this opportunity to take class with Francis.
Sponsored by Company d and Studio B
Published Jun 1, 2010 4:34:00 PM :: Permalink
The "Light of the Clear Blue Morning" in East Tennessee October 2009
Company d members not only dance with exuberance and heart; they also travel with the same spirit and awe. Despite the gray sky and a steady drizzle of rain the dancers’ spirit was not dampened when they boarded the bus shortly after sun up. Company d was invited by VSA of Tennessee to be part of the Young Soloist finalist concert to be held at Dollywood theme park, in the Pines Theater, the weekend of October 29 thru the 31st, 2009.
Company d traveled eight hours through the hills of Tennessee to perform and see the sights. They were accompanied by their director and many of their parents. The bus driver, Mr. Eddie, quickly embraced the spirit of the trip. He kept a steady pace on the road while the young men and women of Company d sat with their friends keeping the same pace with their laughter and excitement, only stopping long enough to enjoy lunch in Nashville!
The arrival in Dollywood commenced on Thursday evening and the excitement continued throughout the weekend. Their performance opened with Dolly Parton’s “The Light of a Clear Blue Morning.” The theater immediately filled with amazing energy felt by both the audience and performers. The dancers continued to awe the audience with some of their favorite dances choreographed by their director and choreographer, Darlene Winters. The applause appeared to be of wonderment and amazement, but it was the comments they received that confirmed the audience’s admiration and inspiration.
But the fun didn’t stop there! The group then spent the day at Dollywood, hanging out with their friends, going on rides, shopping in gift shops, and playing games. With tired feet and much accomplishment, dancers and families met at the Dixie Stampede for delicious food and entertainment.
Saturday brought the wonderful weekend to an end as the young men and women spent time going through the Christmas Village in Gatlinburg before the long ride home. Although their first road trip ended quickly, the memories of their trip will live in their hearts forever. As their memorabilia that they picked up along the way may remind them of the wonderful time they shared; the memories and bonding of their trip will forever be embedded in their minds.
Cheers to all the members of Company d for all your hard work and determination! You make us all so proud each time we see your faces light up a stage!
Published Apr 10, 2010 6:59:00 AM :: Permalink
Summer Workshop 2009
Published Oct 23, 2009 8:56:00 PM :: Permalink
Company d dancers are excited to present their fourth annual Memorable Memphis in May Basket . The basket is a fundraising effort to support master level training sessions, Summer Workshop and opportunities to tour for the dancers. The basket contents always include Beale Street Music festival 3 day pass for two, a guest invitation to Barbecue fest, Sunset Symphony tickets and objects de' art of our honored country, Chile 09. Memphis area businesses contribute products and services to add a value of $1000 for the contents of the basket. It is guaranteed that the winner of the Memorable Memphis in May Basket will delight in the contents of the basket. This endeavor is always a success and generates funds for the Company d dancers to grow artistically. For information on how to participate in this opportunity please contact: companyd14@aol.com
Company d is a 501c3 non-profit. Please visit our website for further information on the program and schedule of events.
Donations can be mailed to:
Company d
P.O. Box 336
Cordova TN 38088-0336
Published Apr 13, 2009 8:02:00 AM :: Permalink
Darlene Winters' Interview with the Commercial Appeal
Darlene Winters was named one of the Commercial Appeal's "12 Who Made a Difference" for 2008.
Darlene Winters Interview
Published Jan 29, 2009 6:55:00 PM :: Permalink
“Start spreading the news…” Company d was a part of it, New York, New York
The dancers first night in the city struck a high note with their performance at the Dicapo Opera Theatre, an official off-Broadway venue, hosted by Luigi Jazz Centre. It was overwhelming to see the Company d dancers step-up to a New York audience, deliver a perfect performance and honor Luigi with their révérence to the song Somewhere.
Company dancers, who “never stopped moving” took classes with Luigi, the father of jazz dance and Francis J. Roach, choreographer and world renowned teacher. Dancers were comfortable and confident taking class with a varied group of New York dance students and professionals. On the third morning Liza Minnelli, one of Luigi’s long time students shared mirror space with Company d. It was class as usual stretching, bending and moving to the “rhythm of the body” with Luigi. However at the conclusion of class it was a show-stopper when Company d was extended the invitation to perform a piece for Liza and she in turn sang and danced New York New York for the class! WOW what a way to start the day.
Not to miss a beat the dancers not only attended several Broadway shows but toured the Metropolitan Opera and were invited backstage at Mary Poppins and Altar Boys. They interacted with the cast and crew and learned about the behind the scenes technology of theatre.
Bringing the curtain down, to a perfect weekend, the dancers were part of the featured entertainment for the National Down Syndrome Society 14th Annual Buddy Walk. “The audience was floored by their artistic talents and their chemistry together and the NDSS staff was equally as impressed with their professionalism and graciousness”, stated Pamela Sandonato, Director of Development for the NDSS.
Applause, standing ovation and a choir of bravos for the Company d dancers and our generous supporters who made it possible. A grateful heart to the DSAM Board who had the confidence that Company d could make this great leap.
Published Nov 29, 2008 4:13:00 PM :: Permalink
Company d Dance Workshop 2008
“Determined to dance through life” Amanda Cash, Company d dancer
Company d dance workshop 2008 was hosted for the second year at Hutchison School for Girls, June 9 -20. A beautiful, state of the art campus that was a perfect venue for Company dancers and guest artists. Dancers were able to utilize the theater, dance room and art room for their classes. Summer workshop emphasis was on using the focus, determination, commitment and artistic expression that is cultivated in dance class and applying those elements to aspects of daily life.
Francis Roach, from New York returned for his second summer workshop with Company d. Francis is a 30 year master teacher of the Luigi jazz technique and travels world-wide as a guest artist. In 2004 Francis received the Dance Teachers of America “Presidents Award”. He has appeared on network television with Gene Kelly, Shirley Maclaine, Liza Minnelli, Patti LaBelle and the pointer Sisters. On Broadway he has danced with Ben Vereen, Liza Minnelli, and Elaine Stritich. Francis shares his passion and commitment for the Luigi method with Company d. We are so excited to have Francis as our guest artist for week one of summer workshop. Welcome Back Francis !!
Emma Crystal is a native Memphian and a certified Teaching Artist with the Memphis City Schools. She spent more than 15 years, however, in New York City working as a performing artist. Musicals include Dreamgirls, Sophisticated Ladies, Sweet Charity, Hair, Boy Meets Boy and Sister Rabbit Takes Harlem. Since moving back to Memphis, she choreographed and directed Sophisticated Ladies for Circuit Playhouse, and served as choreographer for The New Ballet Ensemble, The Memphis Links Annual Debutante Ball, world-renowned singer, Kallen Esperian, Al Green’s benefit for the American Heart Association and Opera Memphis’ Porgy & Bess, just to name a few. Emma directed They Sing Christmas Up In Harlem for the Hattiloo Theatre, and played Elaine in a production of Neil Simon’s The Last of the Red Hot Lovers for the same company. There’s Something About Big Women is a show that Emma wrote, directed and choreographed that made its world premier in the Fall of 2007. Most recently, Emma choreographed a commercial for the Fred’s Dollar Store chain, and continues to perform with New Ballet Ensemble & School. We are so excited to have Emma as our jazz dance teacher for the second week of workshop and look forward to learning a lot of new techniques from her.
Zoe Barton, teaching assistant, a New York City native, is a senior Dance and Psychology major at Oberlin College. She is a member of the Oberlin Dance Company and choreographed and danced in Oberlin’s Fall Forward and Springback dance concerts this past school year. She is especially interested in modern dance and multimedia work. She is excited to work with the company and incorporate some modern dance techniques into the dancers’ strong jazz repertoire. We are excited for Zoe to share her spirit and love of the arts with us during summer workshop.
Ekundayo Bandele, a New York native, is the Executive Director and Founder of Hattiloo Theatre, a Black Repertory located in Memphis, TN. Hattiloo was founded in March 2006 by Bandele (who named the theatre after his daughters: Hatti - Hatshepsut, and Loo - Oluremi. Hattiloo Theatre has received generous financial support from the Jeniam Foundation, Hyde Foundation, Turley Foundation, and over 150 individuals. Ekundayo left Tennessee State University and returned to New York City to pursue his ambition of becoming a writer in 1992. Over 5 years he wrote 7 plays, 3 of which were produced: Streets, If Scrooge Was A Brother, and The Ghost of Soapbox Artist. His plays have seen stages in Nashville, Atlanta, and Cleveland. In 1998 he began writing a historical novel titled Tales Go Round, which he completed in 2004. In tandem with his writing, he has started and operated businesses such as Threads Vintage Clothing, Bandele’s Washworks, and the Speakeasy. In 2007 he returned to playwriting with Forget Me Not Christmas. Ekundayo”s objective for the dancers is: stage direction, the elements of successful storytelling and working to expand expression, both verbal and physical. Ekundayo has taught the dancers about the importance of clarity, pronunciation and projection in an actor or dancers speech. Ekundayo has been a source for enthusiasm, humor and energy at the end of a long and arduous day.
Courtney Sharp Rivers, part-time staff assistant, is a graduate from The University of Memphis with a degree in theatre performance and communications. She has worked for two years with the Department of Education and Outreach at Theatre Memphis as an instructor and actor. She is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Speech and Language Pathology at the University of Memphis School of Audiology and Speech. Courtney has been working to blend her love of dance, especially jazz, with her interest in speech and language. She has been working with the junior company to develop and incorporate movement and vocal phrases into their dance. Courtney will continue to work with the company to improve language and speech skills during their theatre activities. We hope that she learns as much from us as we do from her.
Peter’s "Hatebusters" PSA's were syndicated nationwide. Here young people rap, rhyme, sing, dance, and speak out to reduce bigotry and discrimination.
Peter produced a video for the Agency for Instructional Television on dance therapy with developmentally challenged young adults.
Peter is the author of the non-fiction book on performing artists, Staying Power, which illustrates how a person can craft a productive life in the arts without being rich and famous; published by Dial Press.
Also the creator of a short video about Laura Ferguson, an artist with scoliosis who incorporates her curved skeleton into her art, was premiered at the National Museum of Health and Medicine at Walter Reed Hospital in D.C.
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The objectives and benefits of Company d as the subject for a documentary:
Disabled viewers everywhere will feel a thrill watching these dancers strive and flourish. They will feel proud, emboldened, and motivated to stretch their own limits.
General audiences will share that thrill, and they'll have their awareness raised about a group of "different" people who suddenly don't seem so different, and a lot less "disabled" than most people imagine them to be.
The movie will reinforce the work of everyone dealing with the special needs population, encouraging them to keep fighting, advocating, organizing and educating.
The project will suggest to some workers in the field new ways to energize and transform their constituents. Art can be powerful therapy for everyone as well as a way to connect with the spiritual, intuitive facets of our personalities. Special needs teachers and staff will feel supported in including unconventional paths in their therapeutic strategies.
Company d has universal lessons to teach the general population about challenges far beyond dance.
Opening hearts and minds to differently abled people is a step toward a much broader enlightenment that can help us all prepare for a future that's shifting under our feet, where it is not only morally right but pragmatically wise to be flexible and open in our thinking.
The movie will give the Company a mirror, a chance to take stock, feel proud, keep moving forward.
It will be an internal motivator as well as a way to extend Company d's positive influence on the world as a whole.
For me, their message is:
that all individuals have talents and gifts;
that we can all grow, change, and challenge ourselves;
that there are many ways to express yourself;
and that if we look past our preconceptions, we can make discoveries that enrich our lives.
The movie will also make Memphis look good, burnishing the image of the city as a place where many good things happen, not just music, including this innovative program.
Funding for this project will come through Groundswell, Inc., a 501(c)3 not-for-profit, EIN#13-2953116.
Published Nov 29, 2008 2:42:00 PM :: Permalink
Moving to Connect - Darlene Winters, Artistic Director Company d
The Luigi jazz technique is known for its elegant and sophisticated jazz style that enhances the mind-body connection. On Feb. 22nd Luigi’s technique was extended beyond the mind-body connection to connecting two different classes of dancers. Pam Hurley, University of Memphis jazz dance instructor and Darlene Winters of Company d joined their classes to unite in one shared technique. Dancers from different backgrounds and varying levels of training stood shoulder to shoulder in the dance studio on the University of Memphis campus. Although it was just a “dance class” it presented more than just a show of technique. Affirming feedback was given from other dance instructors on staff, students and several Company d parents observing the class. However, Allie Roberts, dance education major best surmised the experience.
“After class began I realized how talented the company was in ways I have never experienced myself. Once I began to talk and interact I learned that these dancers had the same passion and love for dance as I did. It made my heart melt to know that we all shared a passion for dance. It was by far one of my best dance experiences ever.
I wish people could see through the eyes of a dancer. They would then understand the beauty and meaning of movement. As Martha Graham once stated, ‘dance is the song of the body’ that helps to express and depict our feelings and emotions. I will never forget this day it has changed my life.”
Company d is “making a change” one step at a time.
visit gallery to see associated pictures
Published Mar 24, 2008 8:06:00 AM :: Permalink
On the road again
You never know who you will see at the world famous Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville, TN. A home to country music, dancing and “limited engagement acts”. Most recently a venue for the VSA arts of Tennessee, sponsored dance showcase. The event on October 26th featured three dance companies “A Moving Experience” from the Orange Grove Center in Chattanooga, TN., Full Radius Dance from Atlanta GA.; comprised of professional dancers with and without disabilities and Company d. The morning program kicked-off to a packed house of 950; an audience of community leaders and students.
No boots were needed for Company d to present their repertoire and receive applause that resounded from the audience through three balcony levels. The performance was a memorable experience for Company d, pre-show warm-up in the green room, sharing the space with the spirit of past artists, professional sound, lighting, and yes even a make-up artist was on hand for the last minute touch-up.
Company d was also able to be in the audience for two exceptional performances from “Moving Experience” and Full Radius an opportunity to deepen their experience in the arts and also to offer praise to the other performers. The morning concluded with an all-dance on the 2500 square foot dance floor and a time for Company d dancers to sign autographs.
The invitation from the VSA arts to participate in the dance showcase exemplified and blended the mission philosophy between the two.
It is the mission of Company d to create awareness that all individuals have talents and gifts. Company d’s performances continue to reveal that when given the time, the training and the encouragement to develop artistic expression that there are many possibilities for growth and that we are all more alike than different.
Published Jan 30, 2008 11:47:00 AM :: Permalink
“Opening Doors” company d summer camp 2007
Company d dancers had the opportunity to “step-up” to a quality workshop this summer. The annual summer camp was held at Hutchison School. Tracey Zerwig FordDirector, Center for Excellence opened their doors to Company d. For the first time the dancers had a dance room, theater and art room available for classes. The setting was perfect for the teaching artists visiting for the week. Francis J. Roach, choreographer and master teacher of the Luigi jazz technique began each day with the Company d dancer in a three hour class. Following a wonderful lunch in the dining hall, the dancers had art with Diedre Seymour of Memphis. The focus of classes this year was print making. The day ended on stage and in the spot light with Tony Horne, theater artist and associate professor of theater at Northwestern University, Chicago. Tony led the dancers in theater based warm-ups, with emphasis on oral language. In addition the dancers worked on building character and working in unison within a story format.
It was an excellent and intensive week for Company d and the curtains dropped on everyone waiting to come together next year.
**Aside from the intensity of training the Company d dancers received that week, they had daily opportunity to reflect the mission of heightening public awareness of their artistic abilities and possibilities
**Luigi, google and learn about the adversity he overcame and still teaching at 82.
Published Jan 30, 2008 11:46:00 AM :: Permalink
"The Dancers"
“The Dancers” a working title that began back in September of 2000, has evolved into a company that consist of fourteen teenagers that represent four high schools, three counties in West Tennessee and a variety of work placement in the community.
Although the demographics may seem widespread, each dancer and parent has faithfully committed their time to weekly classes, extra rehearsals and giving up weekends to be part of a performing arts troupe that has performed at multiple events locally, regionally and nationally. Venues have varied dramatically from paved church parking lots to performing before an audience of a thousand. The mission of Company d has been to create awareness of the talents and gifts of individuals with a disability in the community through the performing arts. The program has sustained and continues to grow into its seventh year because of the shared commitment of the dancers and parents.
It is truly the spirit and belief of all involved that members of Company d not only continue to change and grow in their abilities and artistic skills but in turn have united into “one movement” to impact and grow their audiences.
Darlene Winters
Artistic Director
What’s the d in company d?
dance-drama-design-dedication-discipline-do-determination-dream-devoted-diligent-difficult-
Corinthians 7:7
Published Jan 30, 2008 11:44:00 AM :: Permalink
Company d NDSC 2006
Company d has had many opportunities in the last five years to travel and perform for various audiences in the community and other cities. However attending the NDSC conference in Atlanta was an all encompassing experience for the dancers and families. The dancers spent the first part of their summer in very intense rehearsals to prepare for the performance opening night of the convention. Company d dancers brought the audience to their feet with several standing ovations and dancers were surrounded following their performance with other self-advocates asking for autographs and just wanting to have talk time with each dancer. Although that alone would have made for a great trip, the dancers spent their remaining time at the conference attending seminars and self-advocate sessions. KelseyWakley particularly liked the session on “….learning how to interview for a job”. Kenny Thielemier was the lead teacher in a self-advocate session where Company d was also selected to teach dance. During three sessions each dancer had the experience to take other self-advocates through a dance warm-up, and the basics of building a dance.
While dancers were busy attending self-advocate general sessions on topics such as “Life at College”, “How to get a date and a second date”, parents had multiple choices for expanding their knowledge base and hearing some excellent speakers. The evenings were a special time for the Company d dancers to eat with old and new friends and dance the night away. When the dancers are asked about their trip to Atlanta the responses are a mixture of smiles, “awesome”, and “can’t wait to go next summer”. The NDSCC was a wonderful time for the dancers to be in community, to learn, to be proud and to celebrate with other self-advocates.
Published Jan 30, 2008 11:39:00 AM :: Permalink