The Show Must Go On: How Roswell Dance Theatre is Finding New Ways to Connect
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n the 2020 world of the arts, Roswell Dance Theatre is finding a way for our artists to engage and perform. For dancers that have been training year-round since middle school or younger, taking an extended break from classes was not an option. With so much work and dedication to their art established, students from the Tolbert Yilmaz School of Dance found a way to persevere. After initially switching to online classes in the late spring, our company members began dancing again in-studio during the summer. Today in our new facility, with 24,000 square feet of space, dancers wear their masks and carefully follow stringent safety protocols to be able to keep training safely. In September, we continued the 30 plus year run of our annual charity performance, HUGS From Young Choreographers, and
Photo by Abigail Photos
Drosselmeier Workshop 2019, Photo by Steve Harrison. hosted a limited audience in our in-house performance space. We also offered a livestream option for additional patrons locally and afar. Many things in 2020 have been difficult but finding a way to continue the dance calendar has meant the world to the students. Staying engaged, physically training and emotionally connecting with peers in the studio has been a bright spot for all. The families are supportive of the opportunity for something familiar and satisfying to be part of their week. Faculty and staff are thankful for the opportunity to stay active and employed. Like any dance company, a big part of the year focuses on the annual production of The NUTCRACKER. The performances are the culmination of months of planning, training and execution. The financial outcome helps sustain the company throughout the year. This year we are continuing to perform, but in a new way. Visit www.RoswellNutcracker.com to check out our livestream options. We cannot wait to be back at the spectacular Byers Theatre in Sandy Springs with the thrill of a packed house and joyous applause. For now, we will keep dancing, dreaming, and discovering new ways to connect with our audience.
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