Dance in the Park brings neighborhoods together

When Dance in the Park was created 14 years ago, the idea was to use local dance companies in the tranquil setting of Roanoke Park to bring together people from the neighborhoods surrounding the park. Since then, volunteers from the neighborhoods – including Volker, Roanoke, Coleman Highlands, West Plaza and Valentine – have served as marketing and fundraising volunteers, stage crews, parking control and clean-up teams for the event. City in Motion Dance Theater handles the dance-related details.

This year, Dance in the Park is scheduled for Saturday, September 8 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. It always starts with a free dance class, during which audience members are invited onstage for a lesson from professional dancers. This year, the class will be a swing dance lesson. The show starts at 7 p.m.

How to enjoy Dance in the Park: The best way to enjoy the dance event is to arrive early and spend time getting to know the other folks who have come out for the evening. It’s best to bring a blanket or lawn chair, and many folks like to bring a picnic as well.

Dance offerings this year: Ballet, Modern, Jazz/Hip-hop, Swing, Flamenco, Belly Dance Fusion, West African, and Circus Arts.

Participating dance companies: City in Motion Dance Theater, City in Motion Children’s Dance Theater and Apprentice Company, Kacico Dance, Art in Motion, American Youth Ballet, Alma Flamenco, Soundz of Africa, Troupe Duende, MoonDrop Circus, and Louis and Company’s The Swingsters.

Volunteering for Dance in the Park: Volunteers are always needed: if you are interested, please e-mail msjunie@gmail.com.