JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — It began as so many stories with such deep mountain roots do, with a handful of passionate, inspired locals hunkered into a low-slung hand-built log cabin. Perched along the crystal-clear Fish Creek at the base of Teton Pass, the historic restaurant of Nora’s Fish Creek Inn hosted some of the first dance classes in 1972.
As Dancers’ Workshop embarks on its 50th year of bringing dance and movement to Jackson Hole, a great many things have changed. From these humble beginnings, the steadfast vision and creative drive of those involved created a flourishing world-class organization.
Dancers’ Workshop is proud to now offer classes for all ages of students, from toddlers to seniors, featuring a diversity of styles, levels, and instructors. Additionally, as the home of the professional Contemporary Dance Wyoming company and the Junior Repertory Company, Dancers’ Workshop provides exceptional dance education on par with some of the world’s most revered institutions.
“Our inspiration over the years has come from many places: countless individuals, leaders, ideas, students, instructors, and visiting artists,” says Babs Case, DW artistic director. “We’re celebrating the incredible diversity of influences and the many lives that have come together over the course of our history to form what Dancers’ Workshop has become, and all that it can be in the years ahead.”
The 50th anniversary season at Dancers’ Workshop should be one to remember. The 2022 season begins with a one-of-a-kind showcase of Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company on March 18-19. New Dances New Choreographers, a display of the evolving and up-and-coming talent in the Junior Repertory Company, will feature the work of young local dancers on April 22-23.
Contemporary Dance Wyoming will collaborate with Cuban company Malpaso and choreographer, Azure Barton for a series of performances on May 2-8, creating an exceptional representation of stylistic fusion and synergy. July 22-30 will mark the official weeklong celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Dancers’ Workshop: a week of unforgettable performances, reflection on achievements and creations of the past, and a look into what the future may hold.
The season will close with a residence and performance of the celebrated David Dorfman Dance Company in October, followed by the beloved tradition of the Dancers’ Workshop Winter Production in December.
“This season is truly a celebration of the most exceptional and treasured elements of Dancers’ Workshop,” says Erin Roy, executive director. “Some of the world’s most respected and accomplished dance companies are coming to Jackson Hole to offer mentorship and leadership to our young and aspiring dancers, as well as to share with the community their incredible art. At the same time, we’re honoring the journey that we’ve been on as an organization over the past five decades, and all of the amazing ways that movement has enriched lives here in our own community.”
