A MESSAGE FROM LEADERSHIP Welcome to an overview of Dance – The Next Generation (DNG). The Sarasota Ballet celebrates the 30th Anniversary of DNG with great pride and hope for the future. For over 30 years, this program has supported youth in Sarasota through its extensive dance, mentorship, and achievement programs. Thousands of students and their families have become part of The Sarasota Ballet family through their participation in this award-winning program. Ensuring access to dance is a challenge to which we have committed since the inception of The Sarasota Ballet. Our education and community programs are central to the mission and vision of the organization. Our recently completed 2020 Strategic Plan places a high priority on expanding our community programs and developing partnerships with organizations that will reach and engage Sarasota’s many diverse communities. Dance – The Next Generation has a bright future. With goals to increase enrichment activities and field trips and to expand educational tutoring to the high school level, DNG will continue to support students in their emotional, academic, and achievement journey. Dance – The Next Generation touches the lives of youth in Sarasota and Manatee Counties and provides opportunities for deserving children to complete high school, continue to college and on to a variety of professional careers. You will hear from many of these talented young people throughout this publication. You will also see the depth and breadth of the program including dance instruction, mentorship programs, tutoring, and the beautiful facilities that our students call their home for ten years. We would like to thank all the volunteers, individuals, and institutions who have supported Dance – The Next Generation. DNG is completely free to the participants and relies entirely on contributed support to operate each year. As the program has grown, so has its following of loyal volunteers and supporters. Thank you from all of us at The Sarasota Ballet.
Iain Webb
Joseph Volpe
3
