Daily Life: Once federally backed, Jefferson Dancers seek funds
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 9
Jefferson Dancers — North Portland's star dance troupe, Jefferson Dancers, will be putting on their annual fundraising event, "SOAR Grit + Grace," this weekend, hoping to raise money for operation and a spring trip.
Under the guidance of longtime Artistic Director Steve Gonzales, the Jefferson Dancers will perform in the event at BodyVox, 1201 N.W. 17th Ave., 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11.
They'll perform perform six original pieces in various styles. The Jefferson Dancers are made up of 18 multi-ethnic students ages 14-18, performing many dance styles, including ballet, modern, jazz, tap, hip hop, and African.
Once federally funded, the "JDs" are now supported almost entirely by donations.
Said Gonzales: "Throughout the year, we bring in professional guest artists and choreographers; the dancers also perform student-led pieces choreographed by company members. As a result, we instill professionalism in our dancers, who thrive on the challenges."
"SOAR Grit + Grace" raises funds to support the Jefferson Dancers' ongoing program, including paying for guest artists, costumes, and the company's annual enrichment trip every spring.
In March, 2023, the company is going to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to attend classes and perform at the National High School Dance Festival.
"The Jefferson Dancers is an amazing opportunity for students at Oregon's most racially diverse high school," says Gonzales, who has led the JDs for 24 years of the company's 47-year history.
TUESDAY, NOV. 8
Kennedy School — One of the jewels of McMenamins' establishments, McMenamins Kennedy School, turns 25 this year.
There'll be a birthday celebration at Kennedy School, 5736 N.E. 33rd Ave., all day Saturday, Nov. 12.
The compound includes small restaurants and bars, movie theaters, an outdoor soaking pool, a hotel and more.
For more: http://www.mcmenamins.com/kennedy-school.
MONDAY, NOV. 7
Emilia Clarke — National Theatre Live presents Chekhov's tale of love and loneliness, "The Seagull" with Emilia Clarke (from "Game of Thrones"), 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Nov. 11-12 at Alberta Abbey, 126 N.E. Alberta St.
National Theatre Live films the best of British theatre and brings it to venues worldwide.
You count on us to stay informed and we depend on you to fund our efforts. Quality local journalism takes time and money. Please support us to protect the future of community journalism.
Have a thought or opinion on the news of the day? Get on your soapbox and share your opinions with the world. Send us a Letter to the Editor!
