Incorporated in 1987, Dance Theater Northwest includes an award-winning regional performing dance company, a junior dance ensemble, guest performers, guest vocalists, and an extensive support network of professional artists. The group provides performances and training in classical ballet, tap, jazz, musical theater, yoga, and dance fitness at their studio in University Place as part of their mission to make dance accessible to everyone.
According to Melanie Kirk Stauffer, Artistic Director as well as principal trainer and choreographer at Dance Theater Northwest, “We serve the entire community. With students in our programs ages 4 to 80 who have a passion for dance, our students come in every size, age, color, nationality and religion.”
Dance Theater Northwest’s 35th anniversary will be celebrated with a year filled with programs both old, new, and reborn including a Capital Campaign to assist in replacing vital equipment and infrastructure items. “We want to return to the backbone of our organization which is community outreach,” said Kirk Stauffer.
Events will include the Teddy Bear Picnic, performances at the Museum of Glass and City Hall, plus several showcases in and around the Pierce County market including performances at Monarch Theater. “All of our performances are for family audiences, but Dance Theater Northwest’s driving force is to make our art more accessible and deliver high-quality presentations.” The organization elevates their art by bringing in guest performers from around the country including New York.
Like so many non-profits, the pandemic hit the organization hard. It’s difficult to keep the lights on when you aren’t bringing paying patrons in for performances, making a Capital Campaign critical. The upcoming Capital Campaign’s goal is modest by many standards at just $35,000, but those funds will be well spent on things like new flooring, lighting, theatrical equipment, and basic needs for the training facility.
“I live my life in total gratitude,” said Kirk Stauffer. “We are a big community family.”
Dance Theater Northwest
dtnw.org
BY LYNN CASTLE