Dance and Dialogue: Changing the World One Step at a Time
Local Beverly Hills Non-Profit Brings Joy To Over 30,000 Youth, Teens and Families
Written by Cheryl J. Kagan
Dance and Dialogue, a non-profit arts organization, founded on the principles of equity and equality, was founded in 2013 by Beverly Hills native Ricka Kelsch, a prominent choreographer and dancer who believes that “in order to move society forward it is essential to work from the inside out.” This prestigious foundation has brought together people of all ages, from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds throughout Southern California, to break down barriers of preconceived differences and biases. Dance and Dialogue provides joy through dance, sharing, art and self-expression especially throughout at-risk communities.
“What we have learned,” says Kelsch, “is that by taking the time to start at the root cause of division, we advance with intention, purpose, conviction and joy. It is through this process that people feel seen, heard and loved. And suddenly, we are whole.”
Dance and Dialogue workshop at the Wallis Annenberg Theater for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills
For 10 years, Dance and Dialogue has served over 30,000 of LA’s youth across the entire city. It has been recognized by the Violence Prevention Coalition of LA, former Mayor Eric Garcetti, and received The Lester Horton Award from the Dance Resource Center of Los Angeles for community leadership and commitment to the youth of Los Angeles. Connie Brandsetter, Administrator of Instruction for LAUSD credits Kelsch and the program as being “the most thoughtful and appropriate program for the children of this generation.” The organization has also received media recognition, most notably Atlantic Magazine saluting Dance and Dialogue as a “program that teaches empathy in the classroom through dance.”
Dance and Dialogue celebrates its 10th Anniversary on May 17, 2023 at the historic Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills. Join the organization for an evening of joyous celebration and “live” dance performances. For additional details and tickets please visit www.danceanddialogue.org