Choreographing Change: The Dance Transition Resource Centre Fundraiser (Dec 1st, 2011)

When I was a competitive dancer, my development was facilitated by a number of organizations back in Mexico, but I can’t really recall if there was anything that would help me transition OUT of dance. I haven’t done competitive dancing in years here, but seeing as I’m fully immersed in the dance community in Vancouver, I’m thrilled to hear that there is an organization like the Dance Transition Resource Centre. They are holding a fundraiser called “Choreographing Change” to be hosted by CBC’s own Stephen Quinn at the Norman Rothstein Theatre on Oak and 41st.

The Dancer Transition Resource Centre, a national charitable organization, has been helping dancers make these transitions and will be celebrating at its 25th Anniversary Gala on December 1, 2011 at the Norman and Annette Rothstein Theatre at 8pm. The 25th Anniversary Gala and Fundraiser will be dynamic evening of inspiration and entertainment directed by Simone Orlando, former principal dancer with Ballet BC. It will include five alumni who will share their transition stories providing hope and encouragement that there is not only life after dance but that they have been able to embark on another rewarding career. The assistance of the Dancer Resource Transition Centre is what has been vital in providing counseling, grants and additional resources to transition into meaningful second careers. The DTRC alumni sharing their journey include: Mary Louise Albert, Rhonda Cooper, Noam Gagnon, Blair Neufeld, and Paul Winston – each a testament to the DTRC.

The evening with also feature a wide range of dynamic performances of BC’s most accomplished dancers from a variety of dance styles, including Ballet BC, Noam Gagnon’s Co. vision Selective, Mandala Arts and Culture, Danny Nielson, Goh Ballet, the Damelahamid Dance Co. and dancers from “So You Think You Can Dance”.

More information about the Dance Transition Resource Centre:

Dance is extremely demanding both emotionally and physically, and is the most underpaid profession in the arts. The DTRC is the lifeline, advocate, and trusted resource for hundreds of professional dancers when they need it most. It helps dancers to look on transition as a positive time of development, evolution and growth – a time ripe with opportunity. Ongoing support is vital in helping the DTRC continue be the catalyst for change. There is life after dance!

Tickets for Choreographing Change are $75 and available at Tickets Tonight.