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Laguna Dance, a beacon of artistic excellence since 2005,
announces its 20th anniversary season, a testament to two decades of bringing world
class dance presentation and education to the Southern California community. Under
the visionary leadership of Founder and Artistic Director Jodie Gates, Laguna Dance
has grown into a celebrated nonprofit organization, enriching lives through dance and
fostering a deep appreciation for the art form.
By the Numbers:
● Over 2,100 students attended dance classes and workshops
● Over 22,000 audience members were reached, connecting deeply with the art
and gaining an appreciation for its innate joy and athleticism.
A Legacy of Intimate Dance Experiences
From its inception, Laguna Dance Festival has committed to presenting extraordinary
dance experiences in intimate settings, allowing audiences to connect deeply with the
art. The festival has featured more than 60 top-tier international, national, and regional
dance companies, hosted over 35 principal guest artists, and curated more than 65 free
Art Walks, 75 educational classes, and workshops. With over 100 scholarships awarded
to emerging dance artists, the festival is a cornerstone of cultural and educational
enrichment in the community.
“Our mission has always been to present world-class dance, increase public
appreciation for the art, and provide quality dance education,” said Jodie Gates, Artistic
Director. “As we celebrate 20 years, we reflect on our incredible journey and the impact
we’ve made. We’re excited to continue this legacy with a season of dynamic
performances and unique experiences.”
20th Anniversary Season Highlights
● September 26, 2024 – Behind the Dance: Kick off the season with an exclusive,
live, interactive experience at The Forum Theater. Join Diavolo’s Founder and
Creative Director Jacques Heim, alongside Jodie Gates, for a behind-the-scenes
look at the dance-making process. This unique event offers a rare opportunity to
witness the creation of a dance piece in real-time, with audience participation in
the choreography.
● October 3 & November 7, 2024 | March 6 & April 3, 2025 – First Thursday’s
Art Walks: Experience dance in immersive settings for free at various venues
around Laguna Beach, including the Laguna Art Museum and Hotel Laguna.
These Art Walks offer the community a chance to engage with dance in
unexpected and inspiring spaces inches from the sand and waves.
● February 6-9, 2025 – Laguna Dance Festival Main Stage Performances at
The Laguna Playhouse – Celebrate two decades of dance with performances by
BalletX from Philadelphia, alongside principal guest artists from the Joffrey Ballet,
Boston Ballet, and JA Collective. Featuring choreography by Dwight Rhoden,
Jillian Meyers, and Jodie Gates, this festival promises to be a highlight of the
season. The festival will also include a Master Class Series and collaboration
with the Laguna Beach Music Festival, featuring live music with the dance.
● February 14, 2025 – Laguna Dance collaboration at the Laguna Beach Music
Festival- is a multi-day series of classical and contemporary concerts,
community engagement programs, and dynamic special events.
● May 3, 2025 – 20th Anniversary Bash: Take flight at the annual action-packed
fundraiser and gala at the Lyon Air Museum. This evening of delightful food,
drinks, and incredible dance will honor the festival’s legacy and celebrate its
future.
● June 16-21, 2025 – Laguna Dance Summer Intensive: Prepare for an intensive
week of training with some of today’s most exciting dance educators. This
program offers a rigorous and inspiring experience for dancers of all levels.
Laguna Dance Festival
Since its establishment in 2005, the award-winning Laguna Dance Festival has been a
prominent force in presenting world-class dance performances across theaters, film,
and public spaces. With an annual reach that spans thousands, the festival continually
introduces new audiences to the realm of professional concert dance. As a nonprofit
organization deeply devoted to the arts and community, Laguna Dance Festival is
driven by a commitment to collaboration, dance presentation, and education.
Through an artistic lens, the organization strategically explores innovative ways to commission artists, educate young dancers, and bring people of all ages and cultures together.
Previous festival lineups boast a rich tapestry of national and international companies
and artists, including Ballet BC, Malpaso, RUBBERBAND, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet,
Parsons Dance, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Ballet West, Hubbard Street Dance
Chicago, Black Grace, BalletX, Alonzo King LINES Ballet, Abraham. In.Motion (A.I.M.),
BODYTRAFFIC, Paul Taylor Dance Company, and representatives from San Francisco
Ballet, American Ballet, and New York City Ballet, among numerous others.
Tickets on sale at lagunadancefestival.org
Media Contact
Carly Murphy
Public Relations
