Programming

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transcenDANCE Performing Group

The transcenDANCE Performing Group is an opportunity for a small group of youth, ages 15-19 years, to go through intensive and meaningful training in dance and choreography, writing, and theatre. They use these art forms as vehicles of self-expression about their life experiences and hope for social change. The youth create an annual dance theatre production that they will perform for other youth and community members throughout the season. These youth are selected through an annual audition process that happens every December. On average, the performance group rehearses 10 hours per week.

Youth activism complements their art. The youth investigate community through lectures, demonstrations, photography and museum exhibits, multi-media forms, and anything else that provokes questions, critical thinking, and personal to global connections. The youth involved take these themes and deepen their understanding of human struggle and strength. Their involvement encourages an investigation and knowingness of themselves, their values and ethics, and the strengths and challenges of living in inner-city neighborhoods.

Process
Our YOUTH CITIZEN ARTISTS go through intensive technical dance theatre training and personal exploration – by way of leadership development, community-building activities, and service projects – with the ultimate goal of creating dynamic performances that synthesize their artistic strengths while addressing complex social issues that impact their community.  transcenDANCE youth performers share these inspiring performances with a greater audience to provoke community engagement with the material.

Important Information:

• A transcenDANCE consent form must be completed before taking any class (with parent signature if under 18 years).
• Classes are FREE for City Heights and National City residents! *If you live outside of City Heights or National City, all classes are $10 per class.
• Please wear clothes that you are able to move in! (no jeans for ballet & modern)

FOR MORE INFO ON OUR CLASSES & SPECIAL PROGRAMS, EMAIL TERESA@TDARTS.ORG