HRV Partners with Alvin Ailey Dancer and the Crispus Attucks Cultural Center to Promote Art of Dance in Norfolk Youth.
NORFOLK, VA (June 23, 2008)-Hampton Roads Ventures, LLC (HRV) today announced the launch of Camp RISE, a two-week summer dance camp for approximately 50 low-income middle school students. Coordinated by the Crispus Attucks Cultural Center (CACC) in cooperation with the Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation’s Arts in Education & Community Programs, this innovative, performing arts-oriented youth development program will feature Natasha DeVaughn-Rigby, teaching artist for the Foundation and local instructors, who will teach and mentor camp participants.
“As a community-based organization, we [HRV] are always looking for ways to enrich our home community of Norfolk,” said W. Sheppard Miller, III, HRV Chairman. “Camp RISE! and the Dance Residency Program to follow provides a fun and exciting way for our youth to learn and embrace the arts from a world renowned dance company,” he said.
Camp RISE! provides a positive, encouraging and disciplined environment for participants to build upon their demonstrated interests in dance, while expanding their understanding of the dance world and culture. Following the two-week camp, 25 participants will be chosen to meet at least twice per month throughout the year as part of the Dance Residency Program. Requirements for completion of the residency program include:
- Demonstrated and Improved Focus
- Regular Attendance and Program Participation
- Improved Dance Skills and Abilities
- Sustained Excellence in Academic Performance
- Completion of Instructional/Lecture Sessions
- Completion of Program’s Final Performance
Upon completion, each participant will be judged on the above criteria in addition to other factors. The most accomplished dancer will win a weekend trip to New York, NY to attend an Alvin Ailey Dance Theater performance and the chance to meet the cast of dancers.
