Fresno City College Hosts Ninth Annual Dance EXPO 2024: A Day of Celebration and Education
Fresno, CA—Fresno City College was abuzz with energy and excitement this past Saturday, July 27th, as it hosted its 9th annual Dance EXP 2024. Located at 1101 E. University Ave, the college campus transformed into a hub of dance, culture, and community engagement, drawing participants and spectators from across the region.
An All-Day Dance Extravaganza
The Dance EXPO 2024 kicked off at 9 a.m. with a series of seven master classes that ran until 5:30 p.m. These classes were designed to provide participants with an opportunity to explore and enjoy new dance styles and genres. The classes were inclusive, welcoming dancers of all ages and skill levels, ensuring that everyone could experience the joy of dance.
The lineup of cultural dance master teachers was impressive, featuring experts in a variety of dance forms:
Stoney: Native American Dance Lecture/Demo
Frances Contreras: Belly Dance
Manreet Sandhu: Bhangra
Tara Dixon: African Dance
Kathy Luo: Chinese Dance
Serena Rimorin: Hmong Dance
Rogilo Lopez: Folkloric Dance
Jasmin La Caris: Flamenco
These master teachers not only taught dance techniques but also shared the cultural significance and history behind each dance form, enriching the participants’ understanding and appreciation of diverse dance traditions.
Community Gala Performance
The highlight of the day was the Community Gala Show, which began at 6 p.m. in the Fresno City College Theatre. Hosted by the lively and engaging David Bonetto, the gala was a showcase of talent, featuring performances from over 40 dance teachers and professionals, and a total of 23 groups and individuals.
The performers included well-known local artists and dance groups such as jasminlacaris, n.visiondanceproject, stageviewperformingarts, ukcdancetroupe, and many others. The gala offered a platform for these artists to present their work, ranging from classical dance forms to contemporary pieces, creating a diverse and dynamic program that captivated the audience.
One of the standout performances of the evening was by Deborah’s HipHop crew. Their high-energy routine closed the night with a bang, leaving the crowd on their feet, cheering and applauding. Speaking with Deborah about her team, she expressed immense pride in their growth and dedication. “We’ve been doing this for many years, and I couldn’t be prouder of each individual on my team,” she said. “Watching them grow and develop their skills has been incredibly rewarding. They bring so much energy and passion to each performance, and it’s amazing to see how far they’ve come.”
Supporting the Event
The success of the Dance EXPO 2024 was a collective effort, supported by various departments and individuals at Fresno City College. Special thanks go to the FCC Dance Faculty and students, the Theatre Department, the FCC Public Information Office, the FPCA Administration, FPCA Dean Dr. Luna, Chris Lang, Christina McCollam, and the Student Activities Office. The event’s program was thoughtfully created by Cristal Tiscareno, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
The GALA Panel, composed of esteemed dance professionals Kathy Luo, Rogelio Lopez, Sue Sampson-Dalena, Kenneth Balint, Keith Banks, Saima Nunez, and Eric Gomez, shared their insights, stories, and experiences with the audience, adding depth and context to the performances.
Mission of the Dance EXPO
The mission of the Dance EXPO is to celebrate the value of all dance styles and genres and to raise awareness of dance education within both the collegiate and professional realms. This annual event underscores the importance of dance as a form of artistic expression, cultural heritage, and mental well-being. Dance is more than just movement; it is a language that connects people across different backgrounds and experiences. For the dancers, this event is a platform to showcase their talent, learn from others, and gain exposure to new techniques and styles. For the community, it is an opportunity to come together, appreciate the diversity of dance, and support local artists.
The Dance EXPO aims to make dance accessible to everyone, regardless of age or experience, encouraging participation and engagement. This inclusivity is vital for promoting cultural understanding and community cohesion. By bringing people together through dance, the event highlights the shared human experience and the beauty of cultural diversity.
Food and Festivities
Adding to the day’s festive atmosphere were food trucks like Anita’s Eatz and Greek N More, providing delicious meals and snacks for attendees. The presence of these food vendors contributed to a carnival-like ambiance, allowing participants to refuel and socialize between classes and performances.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on this year’s The Dance EXPO, it is evident that the event plays a crucial role in promoting cultural diversity and artistic growth in Fresno. The Dance EXPO is not just an event; it is a celebration of the community’s rich cultural fabric and a testament to the power of dance to bring people together. By continuing to support and participate in events like this, the community can look forward to many more years of celebrating the transformative power of dance.
Fresno City College’s Dance EXPO 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together a myriad of dance styles and creating an inclusive environment for all participants. If you missed out this year, be sure to mark your calendars for next year’s event. Until then, keep dancing and supporting the vibrant arts community in Fresno.
For more information and updates on future events, stay connected with Fresno City College and the FCC Dance Department.
