Project Dance Times Square 2010 announces great accommodations

ACCOMMODATIONS IN NYC

for

PROJECT DANCE TIMES SQUARE
April 16-18, 2010
NEW YORK CITY
www.projectdance.com


GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL RESERVATIONS
at
New York School of Urban Ministry
(NYSUM)
31-10 47th Street,
Long Island City, NY 11103

For Reservations Call: (718)204-2341
http://www.nysum.org/
Rate: $25.00 per night
Includes Breakfast
20 minute subway ride to Times Square

Note: You may be able to book this location for any extra days before or after the event.

The Current State of Project Dance

Hi Friends of Project Dance,

Thank you for a wonderful 2009 in the life of Project Dance. This year proved to be one of our most exciting years in our history. God led us into Canada for our first ever event in Toronto. We also held event in NYC, Atlanta, and Hong Kong. All of our events were rich in ministry and networking for dancers who desire to walk through this career with God in the forefront.

Our local New York City efforts for the Kingdom were also very blessed. Atmosphere, the Project Dance "dance" company performed for The Broadway Blessing service, facilitated the dance elements for MSNY's Purelife Women's conference, and ministered to organizations like The Covenant House, a transition home for young women. This 100% volunteer dance company serves the NYC area joyfully. Though we have absolutely no budget-God seems to meet our every need.

As we finish out this great year and look ahead to an even bigger year in 2010-We really need your help. If you are in a position to give a love offering to Project Dance-NOW IS THE TIME. Typically, when we finish our last event of the year we have very little funds left. And, that's actually ok since our work for the year is almost complete. However, we do have a few outstanding bills that need to be taken care of before the year is out. And, we need to print our 2010 brochure and do a mass mailing. All total-we are in need of exactly $7400.00 before the year is out.

Your prayers and financial help are greatly appreciated. I know that times are very tough for all of us. Ron and I are in serious prayer about how we will continue to remain in NYC and continue the work God has placed on our hearts. Sometimes we think about how "easy" it would be to move to the burbs and get a nice sized house and just simply "call it a day". But, as we linger down that thought process, God prompts our hearts and reminds us that our work here is not finished. We desire to see The Project Dance House become a reality-leaving a long time legacy for those dancers who are coming through in the future. Ron continues to minister to the homeless of NYC-now going on his 18th year. Our kids, though growing up quickly in a 1 bedroom apartment, are extremely happy and thriving. We are here to stay and see this vision through. And, you are part of that vision coming to pass. Without your support-it just won't happen. We are in the family of God and need that family to see us through.

Project Dance is full of amazing and wonderful volunteers who work hours and hours to make Project Dance look great. For example, all of our graphic work is done by Kevin Osgood. He serves in this ministry out of his love for this vision. He put together our promo video and all of our brochures, and he professionally films the NY event and makes it available for the dancers. I want to bless Kevin for the work he so graciously gives. Will you help me do that?

As we approach our 10 year anniversary I believe God is calling us to go beyond anything we've ever done before. Not only will we see the events spread around the world. But, we will also see a continual reconciliation within the professional performing community. This year I've had top dancers in the NYC scene come to me, wanting to be a part of Project Dance. What once seemed like 2 totally different worlds is slowly but surely merging. This can only happen when the heart of God is on the move for his artists. One of our dreams is to begin a worship service specifically for the professional performing community. This is something the Lord has placed on my heart.

Project Dance is a family! To date-all of the work that has been accomplished is an effort by many within the Body who believe who God has a heart for dancers and that dancers have something meaningful to contribute to the world and back to God. Project Dance stands as a bridge for those dancers who may not yet be ready to walk into the church. Project Dance is a bridge for those believers who have felt rejected by The Church, Project Dance stands in the gap for dancers around the world who are finding their voice and purpose in the Kingdom of God. Project Dance is still a need within the greater Body of Christ. I'm amazed that I still meet dancers who are asking questions that many of us asked 10 years ago. Does God approve of dance? Can God love a dancer? Is dance from God?

By supporting Project Dance you become a part of this very important "mending" that needs to take place for the dance world.

I know this is a long email-there is even more on my heart but I know time is limited when reading daily emails. If you have any questions about our local and international events, The Project Dance House, our local efforts in NYC, our great vision-please feel free to write to me at cheryl@projectdance.com

Please pray about giving today. And, consider giving a recurring gift. We know how giving works. When we give-we do receive. The question is...Am I called to give to Project Dance? If that answer is yes-please go online and give today.

https://www.justgive.org/basket?acton=donate&ein=41-2098775
Click here to give!

If you prefer to write a check, make it payable to Project Dance and mail it to:

The Project Dance Foundation
520 Eighth Avenue
Suite 329
New York, NY 10018

Thank you for taking the time today to hear our heart for Project Dance.
God Bless You,
Ron and Cheryl Cutlip

Cheryl's take on Project Dance Hong Kong 2009

Project Dance Hong Kong was amazing. For an event that is only in it's second year, I am so pleased to see that we are not only growing but expanding into other regions across Asia. Some of the highlights of the weekend included a miraculous answer to prayer for one of our dancers. He arrived with a heavy heart because his mother had been kidnapped 2 days prior to his arrival in Hong Kong. We prayed for him and received the good report that she had been recovered on Sunday morning. Thank you God! There was also a pastor from Laus who was in Hong Kong for talks on North and South Korea relations. He asked if he could sew seed in our organization and was so moved by the dancing. He offered us $20 US dollars which is the total of one month's salary in Laus. It's not what is given but what is sacrificed in giving. When I first received the money I thought it was truly a kind gesture. After realizing the huge amount of money that was given I was humbled to say the least.

Our weekend was spiritually rich and all of the dancers offered themselves 100% to the city of Hong Kong. I look forward to next year's event and also planning how we may enter China, Manila, Taiwan and Singapore with dance that brings hope and healing.

Thanks to the dedication of the Hong Kong team-Project Dance has a bright future on the other side of the planet.

Project Dance Toronto 2009 Photos

Enjoy photos from our 1st annual Project Dance Toronto Event

PROJECT DANCE ATLANTA 2009

Project Dance Atlanta 2009 Recap Video

Marketplace Myth #1

DOES GOD NEEDS PEOPLE IN THE MARKETPLACE?

There seems to be a trend in the church that applauds without question those Christians who throw themselves into the marketplace arena. The hope of young professionals is to pursue all that they’ve worked so hard in their lives, so far, to achieve and still appear upright before God by attending church and boldly proclaiming a relationship with Jesus. And, there is a tendency to allow that brother or sister to hold a license to live life a bit more on the edge. The pressure of a professional life and all of its demands seem to outweigh the idea of a holy life. It seems that as long as a Christian is actually in an environment where few Christians generally mingle that it’s ok to sin a little bit. There’s an idea that surely god will forgive a little sin as a way of furthering the kingdom of god. We don’t admit this attitude in the Church but it exists. The fact that many of these market place candidates find difficulty expressing their inner most secrets and struggles is a sure sign that we’re not asking the right questions. And, we’re leaving these young people out there to fend for themselves spiritually while they make a name for themselves and allow us to say “Oh, and did you know that he’s a Christian?” Have we forgotten God’s word that clearly states that he is not partial one to another? Why do we seem to exalt those who happen to work in television, or film, or stage? When it comes to God, we need to realize that there’s a whole different playing field. The measure of our well-being is merely based on what Christ did on each of our behalf.

While it may seem that God is using many Christians in the marketplace to get his name on the map, let’s remember that God doesn’t need us to make Himself known. He is a supernatural God and we should spend less time focusing on the venue in which we’re proclaiming Him and more time sharpening our personal relationship with Jesus himself. The ingredient for Christian success starts with a deep, personal and secret communication to God through Jesus by the Holy Spirit. This isn’t something learned in the marketplace or found in a random church service alone but rather through an appointed time by God that he becomes known to each one of us. The Bible says that He first loved us and that it’s not we that pursue him but he that pursues us.

Serving God is one thing, where and how you serve him is secondary to the actual service itself. The market place creates winners and losers. The market place creates super stars and super celebrities whether in business or entertainment. God cannot be contained merely to the social environment of our times. He is beyond comprehension, yet attainable. But, it is on His terms and He has made it clear that we need Him more than He needs us. He does long for us as His creation, of course, but the notion that He can’t do it without us is ridiculous. Count it an honor to be chosen to serve in an environment that you enjoy but don’t always expect it. Being adamant about how you chose to serve God will only limit what God can do in your life. Many of us say that we want only God’s will but as soon as he ask us to leave what it is we love we change our minds.

God has him eye on more than the Market place arena in the United States. Don’t miss out on the bigger picture all because while following your dream you happen to go in and out of relationship with the one true God.

Becoming a Christian and in the same breath making a decision to now do what it is that you do while loving God is only half of what God may be asking. Are you willing to 100% change your entire career/life plans/dreams/hopes/etc. Or, are you hoping that now God will just sort of come in and make things easier and better for you? Now that you have God surely you’ll get that promotion. Now that you have God in the picture surely you’ll capture that dream.

Let’s get one thing straight. God can use anyone, anytime, anywhere, for any purpose that he has ordained. If you want to be in the God picture then you must be willing to understand that God does not necessarily need you in the market place. He may chose to send you there but I recommend relinquishing that position before him and then seeing what he gives back or what he replaces it with. If you cannot do that or are not willing to do that you must then admit that you are not willing to serve God whole heartedly. The Bible says that a man thinks he knows best but God’s ways are higher than our ways. If you make a mistake and give up something that God intended for you to have, what kind of God wouldn’t then make it clear as he gave it back to you that you were doing some things right. But, your heart must be willing to let go.

So many new believers today ride the market place wave. As we see God using a handful of Christians in high profile positions we assume of God that we’ll be the next one that is used in a high profile way or a public way or in a way that we can do what it is that we absolutely love and have worked our whole lives to achieve. Don’t assume that of God. He has a unique plan for you and your love to him should be strong enough for you to absolutely give him everything.

Project Dance Hong Kong 2009 Teaching Staff

Cheryl Cutlip (USA) – Tap & Broadway Dance
Cheryl, Founder of Project Dance. She is also a Radio City Rockette and along with kicking on the great stage for the past 15 years. Her duties at Radio City have included dance captain、assistant choreographer for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular、spokesperson for nationally televised appearances including one-on-one interviews with Katie Couric, Diane Sawyer, and Larry King、co-choreographer for Kick Into Fitness (the official Rockette Workout); and choreographer for Christmas Across America promotional tours. Other career credits include the Broadway National Tour of “Crazy For You”, European Tour of “42 nd Street”, and the Broadway benefit to the stars of “Mack and Mable”, starring Jerry Herman and Donna McKechnie.

Derek Capps (USA/Hong Kong) – Modern
Derek, Co-Directs Glory Dance Company (modern dance company) in Hong Kong. Glory Dance Company was established in the United States 8 years ago and has recently relocated to Hong Kong. Derek recently performed in Walt Disney’s production of "Lion King" in Orlando, FL. Also, in Orlando he served as the dance director & performed at TBN’s Holy Land Experience theme park. He was also a soloist in the cast of 'Katonga’ at Busch Gardens, Tampa, Florida. Some of his performing credits include dancing with Tye Tribbett & GA, Philips, Craig, & Dean, Jars of Clay, Alvin Slaughter, Salvador, Vickie Winans and many others Christian recording artist. Derek has been a modern dance instructor for Project Dance Hong Kong and Atlanta.

Cami Capps (USA/Hong Kong) – Modern & Dancing Prayers
Cami is the Co-director of Glory Dance Company (modern dance company) in Hong Kong. She received a B.F.A. in Modern dance from East Carolina University. She has a dance master accreditation from Duke University -American Dance Festival. In 1997 she founded Glory Academy of Dance Arts in Wilmington, NC, USA. Cami has had the opportunity to perform throughout the USA, Jerusalem, Israel, the Philippines and Hong Kong. Cami served on staff, directed and danced at TBN’s Holy Land Experience in Orlando, FL. She has also served as guest Faculty for Project Dance, Atlanta (2007) as well as Project Dance, Hong Kong (2008).

Elina Veikkola (Finland) - Ballet Elina was born in Kortesjärvi in Finland. Her early training was in gymnastics, before moving on to ballet and contemporary dance. She studied at the Finnish National Opera Ballet School and at the University of Jyväskylä where she graduated with a Masters degree in Health Sciences and Dance Education. She first worked with Xaris in 2004, and later spent several months in Canada with husband Yuri, training at the School for Contemporary Arts in Vancouver. Currently, Elina is a missionary stationed in Hong Kong and a dancer with Glory Dance Company.

Elyse, Lai Yi Ting (Hong Kong) – Chinese Dance Elyse received a B.A. degree from the Faculty of Chinese Dance at the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts. She was the winner of various scholarships including one to attend the Sichuan Cultural Dance Academy. Elyse has been the principal dancer for several major productions including “Mousaw women” & “Bundle” and has had the opportunity to perform in Singapore, Paris, Vienna, Hawaii & Brussels.

Shelby Skidmore, (USA) – Lyrical & Jazz
Shelby is a Texas native who has been dancing for 19 years. Her training encompasses all genres of dance, which she has studied at EDGE Performing Arts Center, Broadway Dance Center, and Westwood Fine Arts Academy in Austin. She spent two years at the University of Texas in Austin studying Dance Performance, and she graduated from Abilene
Christian University with a degree in Dance Education. Throughout her life, Shelby has performed in and directed several dance companies,
including Roustabouts Dance Company in Austin. Shelby travels the nation choreographing for various dance programs both privately and through Encore Creative Productions. She makes her current home in New York City, where she performs with multiple dance companies and projects including Fear. Less Dance, Atmosphere, and Kairos. Shelby’s lyrical jazz class and hip hop class is all about finding truth of expression through “feel good” movement. The class will focus on emotion based movement that seeks to convey a true story.


Melvin Jansen Ang, Team Vibe (Philippines) – Locking
Melvin is the Artistic director, chief Instructor, and choreographer of the Vibe Dance Studio, Manila, Philippines. Graduated with a major in Fine Arts from the University of Santo Tomas and serving actively in the"Talent InC" creative ministry of Victory Christian Fellowship, Manila. Venturing out not just to breathtaking performances ranging from hip hop, breakdance, jazz, gymnastics, creative writing; conducting dance classes and coaching dancers; high-quality costume designs; video productions, and a lot more. He has judged for international dance competitions in Singapore and Malaysia as well as conducting workshops all over Asia. His dancers constantly embody that drive within them in every feat reflecting God's glory in all that they do. It is faith in Christ that helps them to interrogate their work with a heart full of fire and desire for the Lord to help them to bring out the fullest and keep them perform on par with excellent. Recently, he and his crew Team Vibe won a top wining Award & Championship for the 2008 World Streetdance Championship in Netherlands and the Hip Hop Open and Solo Category for the Asia Pacific Dance Masters Competition 2007 in Malaysia.

BBoy Vino, Team Vibe (Philippines) – Breaking
Born and raised from the Philippines, Bboy Vino is a prolific dancer,having combined streetdance, gymnastics and bboying. A member of Team Vibe (2008 Silver World Streetdance Championship, Netherlands) and a faculty member of Vibe Dance Studio. He also teaches various companies and schools, sharing his knowledge and faith as well. He has appeared in various commercials and billboard ads. Trained by the likes of Jay Masta, Profowon, Powerserge, Rob Nasty, Marty Kudelka, Lil Phil, Kimberley Jay, 3ki Rick, Funkanometry SF, DS Players.


Cato Poon, (Hong Kong) – Hip Hop & Jazz
Trained at TVB dance school at the beginning of his dance career, Cato has gained specialties in various styles namely, Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, Chinese Dance, Social Dance and Gymnastics. Since 1995, Cato has started working and performing with lots of A-listed stars at their concerts, including Anita Mui, Aaron Kowk, Kelly Chen, Leslie Cheung and Karen Mok. At 2000, Cato is already widely recognized not only as one of the best dancers, but also one of the most sought-after choreographers in Hong Kong. He has personally given one-on-one dance training to a lot of young and rising artists namely Ivana Wong and Hins Cheung. He has also produced versatile dance performances in many memorable concerts and musicals in Hong Kong, including Sammy Kitty Musical (森美小儀歌劇團)、Fiona Sit 903 Live (薛凱琪拉闊音樂會) and Aaron Kwok de Show Reel Live (郭富城舞林正傳演唱會)。

Project Dance Hong Kong 2008 Photos

HONG KONG 2008 PHOTOS

SUPPORT PROJECT DANCE TODAY

September 8, 2010



Hello Friend!




Project Dance changes lives.

Project Dance brings dance to thousands.

Project Dance is raising up the next generation of professional dancers.

Project Dance offers the gift of life to all who attend our events.

Project Dance serves more than 800 dancers each year through more than 300 volunteers.

Project Dance offers the very best training from around the world.

Project Dance is making a difference in the culture as we know it.

Project Dance inspires dancer around the world.

Project Dance offers auditions at each event for dancers who are ready to work.

Project Dance is quite simply an answer to prayer for many dancers.

Project Dance offers an expo at each event for networking.

Project Dance will leave an important legacy in the dance world.

We need your help TODAY. Our next adventure will take us to Hong Kong, China and Atlanta, Georgia. These events are going to impact more than 300 dancers with a message of hope and healing. Your contribution to Project Dance will allow us to continue in this important work.

Will you become a part of that legacy?

Can you offer a financial blessing to Project Dance? Your tax deductible gift is very much appreciated.

$50_______ $100________ $500_______ Other_______

Give online at:





Make checks payable to The Project Dance Foundation and mail to:
Project Dance, 520 Eighth Avenue, Suite 329, NY, NY 10018

Thank you for prayerfully considering how you might continue to serve Project Dance.

Sincerely yours,

Cheryl Cutlip

SAVE THE DATE IN 2010

 

Project Dance sets out for it's biggest year yet in 2010. Save the date and join us as we take dance to the streets of our major cities around the world.

PROJECT DANCE TORONTO RECAP VIDEO

Click here to enjoy the recap video from Toronto

PROJECT DANCE set to perform at the 13th Annual BROADWAY BLESSING

Project Dance will perform at the annual Broadway Blessing service on September 14th at 7:00pm. We invite our friends to join us as Theara Ward presents original choreography danced by members of Atmosphere, a company of Project Dance while opera singer Patrice Djerejian performs live to one of her newly released songs.

August 1, 2009

Broadway Blessing, 2009
Lynn Redgrave, J. Mark McVey, Carol Hall, Project Dance, The Broadway Blessing Choir and other distinguished guests will be among the performing artists at this year's celebration dedicated to the people who bring us great theater.


On Monday, September 14th at 7:00 pm, the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, one of the nation's leading religious and secular landmarks, is pleased to host the 13th annual Broadway Blessing, an interfaith service that has been bringing the theatre community together every September since 1997. Founded and guest produced by author and theater critic Retta Blaney, Broadway Blessing was conceived as a service of song and story designed to seek God's grace on the new theatre season.

This year’s event will include theatre reflections by Actress Lynn Redgrave, Broadway veteran J. Mark McVey singing “A Chance for Me” from the musical Amazing Grace: The True Story, singer/songwriter Carol Hall and Project Dance. The Broadway Blessing Choir under the direction of Bruce Neswick, Director Cathedral Music, will perform a number of Broadway hits followed by a “sing-a-long”. The Very Rev. Dr. James A. Kowalski, Dean, and The Rev. Thomas Miller, Canon for Liturgy & Arts, from the Cathedral will be joined by Rabbi Jill Hausman of Congregation Ezrath Israel / The Actors' Temple and The Rev. Mitties DeChamplain of St. Clement's Episcopal Church as participants in the 75-min ute program.

Past participants have included Marian Seldes, Marcia Gay Harden, Frances Sternhagen, Boyd Gaines, Edward Herrmann, Anna Manahan, KT Sullivan, Mary-Mitchell Campbell, J. Mark McVey, Tituss Burgess, Kathleen Chalfant, Billy Porter, Elizabeth Swados, Ken Prymus, Three Mo’ Tenors and Broadway Inspirational Voices.

Mr. Herrmann had this to say about it before making his second Broadway Blessing appearance: “It’s reassuring to know there are so many people out there you know that believe in God and want to take that part of their life and dedicate it to the theatre because theatre is a very spiritual endeavor. They come from every conceivable denomination, which I kind of like. It’s like a study in architecture of all these different buildings. They come from all kinds of disciplines and it’s just great to be among them. It’s an annual event, like with spring comes the first buds, now it’s fall and we’re here to bless our endeavors for the rest of the year and maybe some luck will come out of it, whether that’s internal or external.”
Broadway Blessing is free and open to people of all ages; reservations are not needed. For more information please visit www.stjohndivine.org

Broadway Blessing is made possible by the generous support of Masterwork Productions Inc., The Church of the Transfiguration (The Little Church Around the Corner), Creative Gifts Foundation, Theater Resources Unlimited (TRU) and other wonderful friends of the theater.

Sweet Memories!

My friend recently sent me an email with a few performances that we did with the Radio City Rockettes. I thought it would be fun to post it and share with you.

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2004-Part 1


The Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2004-Part 2


The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers 2005


This clip from the famous Parade of the Wooden Soldiers is dear to my heart. Performed in the Christmas Spectacular since 1932, this routine is a classic. As the assistant choreographer for the show I was able to view archival footage from past performances of this famous routine. The version of the spokes which you will see in this clip is reminiscent of how it was done in the early 30's and 40's. I was honored to bring it back in 2005.
-Cheryl Cutlip

PROJECT DANCE TORONTO 2009 PHOTO COLLAGE

The 1st Annual Project Dance event in Toronto was a BLAST! From the Friday night dance party to the open air concert on Saturday to the classes at the beautiful Canadian National Ballet-Fun was had by all! See you in 2010 Canada!

 

PROJECT DANCE TORONTO 2009 TEACHING STAFF

Project Dance Toronto 2009 is taking place this weekend.
Please enjoy reading the bios of our teaching staff for Sunday's master classes.


TEACHER BIOS FOR PROJECT DANCE TORONTO 2009

CYNTHIA CROKER-Contact Improv
Cynthia is a Co-Founder of MOTUS O dance theatre as well as holds the positions of Co-Artistic Director, Choreographer, Performer, Teacher and Costume Designer. She has created over 40 original works for the company and has toured with them throughout the U.S.A., England and Canada. Cynthia is a mentor artist and teacher for the Royal Conservatory of Music’s “Learning through the Arts” program in Toronto Ontario. She is also on the Leadership Training Faculty of the Banff Centre in Alberta Canada; co-facilitating courses on Leadership Training through movement. Cynthia’s class will focus on learning movement which is created by two or more bodies working together in mutual support. We will explore leverage and balance, weight sharing, counterbalancing, lifts and throws.

VIVINE SCARLETT-West African
Vivines artistic goals and aspirations are rooted in the love of dance. She is an instructor, choreographer, administrator and founder of dance Immersion, an organization that produces, promotes and supports dancers and dances of the African Diaspora. Vivine has created and presented works in both traditional influenced African and contemporary African dance styles for over 23 years. Her class embraces participants who will be introduced to of some of the dances from Guinea, West African with live drum accompaniment.

AINSLEY SUDDS-Modern
After completing a BA of Dance from the University of Calgary and a Professional Studies Certificate from the Limon Institute in New York City, Ainsley Sudds is back in Calgary as a full time member of the Corps Bara Dance Theatre Project Company. As well, Ainsley is the Artistic Director of Corps Bara Youth Dance Theatre and full time modern teach at Crossings Dance Ministries. Her modern class is a fusion of Limon Technique and her own personal movement signature.

SHUGAMAI GRACE JOHNSON-Liquid Street
Shugamai is a multi-disciplinary artist, whose passions have allowed her to teach and perform around the world for over 12 years, in countries including India, Sweden, Switzerland, South Korea, Australia and across Canada and the U.S. Most recognizable for her unique street style of dance called Liquid, she has had the pleasure of performing with Mia Michaels, Seal, Ricky Martin, K-os, Rihanna, Bobby McFerrin, Tommy The Clown, Idle Warship (Talib Kweli's newest group), LAL, Hillary Duff, and in the Universal Studios movie "HONEY", to name a few. Last summer she landed a national IKEA commercial called "What Goes Where" featuring “So You Think You Can Dance” star Robert Muraine, aka Mr. Fantastic. In this unique class Shugamai uses Yoga (postures & stretches) to prepare the body to learn Liquid basics. Using improv and choreographed movements to create more fluidity & freedom in the body.

GREGORY HINES-Hip hop
Gregory is a choreographer that has danced for artists including Mariah Carey, Sean Desmond and Eve just to name a few. He has also worked under Luther Brown from "So You Think You Can Dance Canada” from the DoDat Dance Troupe. Now CEO and President of DOAHL Academy, this choreographer has grown into his own style that brings new levels to hip hop that creates and births dance pieces that capture emotion talent and excellence. “DOAHL Dance Academy”, The Academy was the inspiration for students of all ages and areas in their life to come about reaching their fullest potential and allowing students to have the opportunity to have a professional dance career.

CHERYL EVANS-Hip Hop
Cheryl was born to dance. She has been dancing hip hop professionally since age of 18. She has worked with artists including Kardinal Official, JBlaze and Luther Brown from "So You Think You Can Dance Canada" just to name a few. As a choreographer within DOAHL Academy Cheryl has stepped up and out bringing flavor and style to hip hop.

KATIE LEE-Funk-Locking
Katie has shown her passion for God through her funk. She taught for about five years in Kingston and conducted numerous workshops. Katie was one of the semi-finalists of Canada’s “So You Think You Can Dance” season one and also the semi-finalist for the locking battle in Montreal called “Bust A Move.” She has performed in Heaven’s Rehearsal at The Roger’s Center, YC in Edmonton, various youth retreats and Christian productions. Locking is by nature an improvisational dance, but also consists of a set of signature moves of locking pioneers. The class will consist of a few foundational moves with a funky routine and Katie is excited to share her funk flava with you!

SANTEE SMITH-Contemporary Aboriginal
Santee is a member of the Mohawk Nation, Turtle Clan from Six Nations, Ontario. She is the founding Artistic Director of Kaha:wi Dance Theatre, which performs nationally and internationally. Santee was an integral member of the Aboriginal Dance Project, Chinook Winds at the Banff Centre for the Arts, 1997-2001. In 1996 she began creating and performing her choreography, which now includes works such as Kaha:wi, Here On Earth, Midwinter Dreaming, A Constellation of Bones, The Threshing Floor, A Soldier’s Tale, and A Story Before Time. Santee’s class consists of a warm-up and some of the technique of Kaha:wi dance theatre which is contemporary dance combined with indigineous dance forms.

CHANTAL HUNTER-Ballet
Chantal’s favorite phrase to say is, “Go Team!” She graduated from the University of Calgary, Canada, with her Bachelor of Arts in contemporary dance. In addition to her studies, she has also performed throughout Western Canada and within the United States for over six years with contemporary Dance Company, Corps Bara Dance Theater. Currently she is pursuing her Masters of Fine Arts in dance choreography at the University of Arizona while teaching ballet, jazz and modern dance as well as performing in the works of resident choreographers such as Douglas Nielsen and Amy Ernst. Chantal will be teaching an open ballet class for Project Dance Toronto including a charming variation from Paquita. This class will have time for worship and praise while inspiring the dancers to pursue excellence in their ballet technique and artistry.

SHELBY SKIDMORE-Lyrical Jazz
Shelby is a Texas native who has been dancing for 19 years. Her training encompasses all genres of dance, which she has studied at EDGE Performing Arts Center, Broadway Dance Center, and Westwood Fine Arts Academy in Austin. She spent two years at the University of Texas in Austin studying Dance Performance, and she graduated from Abilene Christian University with a degree in Dance Education. Throughout her life, Shelby has performed in and directed several dance companies, including Roustabouts Dance Company in Austin. Shelby travels the nation choreographing for various dance programs both privately and through Encore Creative Productions. She makes her current home in New York City, where she performs with multiple dance companies and projects including Fear.Less Dance, Atmosphere, and Kairos. Shelby’s lyrical jazz class is all about finding truth of expression through “feel good” movement. The class will focus on emotion based movement that seeks to convey a true story.

JENNIFER BYERS-Jazz
Jennifer holds a Bachelor's of Performing Arts in Dance from Oklahoma City University, where she performed with the American Spirit Dance Company and served as the Company Manager for the Grace Liturgical Dancers. For the past few years, Jennifer has been living in New York City where she is currently teaching dance to elementary school students as part of The Educational Alliance's After3Arts Program. She has also been blessed to be a part of Project Dance, serving as a stage manager for their New York, Sydney, and Hong Kong events and dancing as a member of their resident company, Atmosphere. Jennifer’s jazz class is fun and upbeat and explores the expression of God’s joy through the gift of movement.

CHERYL CUTLIP-Musical Theater
Cheryl’s love for musicals led her to a career in musical theatre where she performed in the Broadway National Tour of CRAZY FOR YOU and the European Tour of 42ND STREET. Based in New York City, Cheryl also performed as a Radio City Rockette for 15 years. As the founder of PROJECT DANCE she has a passion to equip dancers with all the tools they need to succeed in the dance world and in the world of life. Cheryl’s musical theatre class will begin with a fun stylized warm up and feature a Broadway style combination.

Meeting Darlene was a joy!

A few years ago I had the amazing honor of facilitating a couple of dance lectures and classes at the annual Hillsong Worship Conference in Sydney Australia. This once in a lifetime invitation remains one of my greatest memories. Not only did I have the opportunity to take in evening sessions with 20,000 worship leaders from around the world but I got to sit on the second row. Can you believe it? I couldn't. Each night I found myself on my knees thanking God for giving me such a wonderful gift.

My good friend Michelle Leaney arranged my visit and took such good care of me the entire week. She's the dance pastor at Hillsong and has served there for more than 20 years now.

Throughout the week the church's worship leader, Darlene Zschech was very busy. I'm not sure how many sessions and lectures actually took place that week but suffice it to say-Darlene was present for most of them. She was an amazing host. In fact, on the last day of the conference she opened her home to the entire staff. What a surprise! Michelle said, Cheryl, let's go-we've been invited to Darlene's home. Uh, ok!

As we drove up to her beautiful home and walked inside you could actually feel the Love of God. She was very welcoming and took time to speak to anyone and everyone. I was a little embarrassed to ask for a photo right there in her house but "I did it". Here it is and I do cherish it. Some people cherish their photos with hollywood celebrities. I have some of those from my Rockette days. Me and Liza-Me and Larry King-Me and Diane Sawyer-Me and Kenny G-Me and Sting-Me and The Donald. But, I'm not even sure where those photos are right now. But, here is my picture with Darlene.

I will always remember my time at Hillsong as one of the greatest events to ever take place in my life. I hope to be back there again and again.

Cheryl Cutlip

Dance Informa Features Project Dance Sydney

Dance Informa is one of the leading dance e-zines. Project Dance is honored to be featured.

Project Dance Founder, Cheryl Cutlip to Receive Faith-Based Award

Courtesy Executive Director/Producer Lauren Yarger…

‘The Lights are Bright on Broadway’ Awards Announced

Dan Gordon, author of Broadway’s Irena’s Vow and Radio City Rockette Cheryl Cutlip, founder of Project Dance, will receive the 2009 “The Lights Are Bright On Broadway” awards presented by Masterwork Productions, Inc., to individuals and organizations making a difference in the Broadway community through faith.

Irena’s Vow is based on real life Irena Gut Opdyke, a Polish Catholic who singlehandedly saved 12 Jews from death in the Nazi camps during World War II. Irena’s vow to God not to stand by and helplessly watch as Jews are slaughtered and the faith on which she relies drive Mr. Gordon’s story.

“I am deeply honored by this award,” Mr. Gordon said. “In honoring the play of course you are honoring Irena Gut Opdyke’s courage, moral rectitude and unshakable faith in her Creator, her rock and her salvation. Absent that faith she said many times she would never have been able to do all that she did. In the last conversation we had the day before she died her sole concern was “Who will tell the children when I’m gone?” My answer was “you will.” That was the reason the play was written and it is my fervent hope that it will continue to tell Irena’s story of faith and courage to ever wider audiences. On behalf of her family, the producers, the director, the cast and entire company of Irena’s Vow, thank you.”

Mr. Gordon’s award will be presented to him and the company at the conclusion of the Broadway performance this Sat., June 27 at the Walter Kerr Theatre by Masterworks Executive Director and Broadway reviewer Lauren Yarger.

Cheryl Cutlip, following a call to “make a difference in the artistic fiber of our nation,” founded Project Dance, which has produced performance events in Times Square, Los Angeles, Hollywood and Australia. Dance Spirit has named the New York event as one of the top ten dance events in New York City. The Project Dance Studio located in Times Square trains dancers in excellence and integrity.

“Project Dance is thrilled and honored to receive this unique award,” Ms. Cutlip said. “I never imagined a day when the work of believing artists in the NYC community would be recognized in the public square. Our only hope has been to encourage dancers toward their highest potential and offer performance and training opportunities worldwide where dancers are able to express their faith in God through the gift of dance. Whether it’s been a Bible study in the rehearsal halls at Radio City or a circle of prayer before a Broadway Underground show, Project Dance desires to honor God with every success within the performing arts community. Thank you for acknowledging such work and encouraging this vision and mission of Project Dance.”

Project Dance’s award will be presented at an upcoming New York event to be announced.

Masterwork Productions, Inc. is a faith-based, nonprofit organization which helps Christians and churches reach out through the performing arts by producing shows and events, booking artists, providing Broadway and theater reviews and training at workshops and conferences. For more information, visit www.masterworkproductions.org

Dancers Kick High With Hope

Article by CNN

Command Performance

WorldwideChallenge Features Cheryl Cutlip 1998

A Career With Legs: Rockette On Stage

CNN Cover's Cheryl in an interview

Dancing To the Heartbeat of the City

Stoneworks, a global arts partnership interviews founder of Project Dance, Cheryl Cutlip

More Photos of PD Times Square 2009

Gerry's Photos of Project Dance Times Square

PROJECT DANCE ATLANTA 2008 RECAP VIDEO

Media Director, Indra Sibal Palmer, releases recap video

PROJECT DANCE HONG KONG 2008 RECAP VIDEO

PD Honk Kong 2008

PROJECT DANCE ATLANTA 2007 RECAP VIDEO

Recap Video

PROJECT DANCE OFFICIAL PROMO VIDEO

Learn who we are!

PROJECT DANCE PHOTOS

Thank you Flickr!

PROJECT DANCE TIMES SQUARE RECAP VIDEO 2009

Media Director, Kevin Osgood, captures the Project Dance Times Square 2009 event.

Project Dance Times Square 2009

Yesterday, PROJECT DANCE offered a free all-day outdoor dance concert dedicated to the City of New York by dancers from all over the world who believe dance can renew the human spirit, bring hope and healing, and change lives. I took the photos of one of the performers yesterday at Broadway and 44th Street.

Mission of Project Dance (from projectdance.com):

Project Dance® is a movement of dancers seeking to positively impact culture through artistic integrity. Our desire is to see every dancer nurtured to their fullest human potential for their own wellbeing and their contribution to the world. We offer training, education, and performance opportunities for dancers worldwide who desire to dance with integrity to inspire.

Retta Blaney reports on Atmosphere

PROJECT DANCE

Six young women, barefoot and in sweats and t-shirts, gathered in a dance studio one Wednesday evening in late February, and began stretching and limbering up. From all appearances, it looked like one of dozens of classes going on everyday in Manhattan’s theatre district. But the reason these dancers had come wasn’t typical -- they came to pray.

They brought no Bibles, prayer books or rosaries. Instead, they leapt, they spun, they bent and swooped, praying to God through movement, using the gifts they were given, the gifts that had brought them to the hard, competitive world of a professional dancer in New York City.

“Your time here is in addition to whatever you do on Sunday or in your small group Bible studies,” said Cheryl Cutlip, founder of Project Dance, which was offering this new class, called Atmosphere, free for any experienced dancer. “This is meant to be a time for you personally, your personal time with God. Find a place and create the atmosphere for the Lord.”

As the CD player in the corner poured out inspirational music -- “Oh, sisters, let’s go down to the river to pray” -- Ms. Cutlip led the group in prayer. “Father, we offer to you the thoughts that weigh heavy on our hearts and the things in the world we don’t have solutions for yet. We take this time out to honor you with our dancing. We ask to be in an atmosphere of spiritual holiness, that when we go out from here tonight we will feel we have been someplace different.”

As she prayed, the dancers began improvising, moving in their own way before coming together as a group to follow Ms. Cutlip’s instructions.

“Whatever you want to do with your arms is so fine with me,” Ms. Cutlip said as she winged hers in and out and up and down. Gradually she led the group into a choreographed dance that was to evolve into a performance the following week at House of Roses, a program that takes dance to inner city children.

At the end of two hours, as the dancers started to cool down, Ms. Cutlip asked them to break into two groups of three for prayer. “Let’s hit it in prayer,” she said, still energetic after the vigorous workout. The dancers then sat cross-legged on the floor and quietly offered their needs and their praise.

In the hall outside the studio after class, the women said the evening had offered them something they don’t find elsewhere, a chance to dance as fellowship, without being judged.

“Here we go specifically to worship God,” said Amy Osgood. “We don’t have to get caught up in how we look. We give up ourselves and it’s totally for God.”

Atmosphere is Project Dance’s latest offering. In the six years since Ms. Cutlip founded this international movement of dancers, Project Dance has produced performance events in New York City, Los Angeles and Sydney, Australia. Its goal is to “share hope and healing through the language of dance.” At least 900 dancers have participated.

“I believe dance can be an expression of worship,” said Ms. Cutlip over a supper of Mexican chicken salad and bottled water at a Ninth Avenue restaurant after the class. “When you’re doing what you’re created to do in His presence, something significant happens.”

Ms. Cutlip has been doing what she was created to do since she began taking dance lessons in Archdale, NC, as a child. Believing anything is possible for one who works hard and sticks to it, Ms. Cutlip, at 15, set out on a six-week summer tour in which she danced eight hours a day. The experience solidified her dream of becoming a professional dancer.

After one semester of college, she left to pursue that dream in Nashville where she danced at Opryland USA. A stint on a cruise ship followed, then it was on to Tokyo Disneyland, a European tour of “42nd Street” and a national tour of “Crazy for You” before she reached what could be the pinnacle of dancing success, becoming a Rockette at age 22. As such she has danced the last 14 seasons of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, performed for a presidential inauguration and danced in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

“The Rockettes have a legacy of camaraderie, of belonging to this really special group of elite dancers,” she says. “Every year I’m at somebody’s engagement party, wedding or baby shower. I’ve ended up having 40 sisters I wouldn’t have had.”

Not everyone in Ms. Cutlip’s life has seen being a Rockette as a positive thing. Right after their marriage in 1996, Ms. Cutlip and her husband, Ron, lived in Ohio where she danced with a church group. One member of that group refused to dance if Ms. Cutlip was involved because she couldn’t reconcile the idea of a Christian being a Rockette.

“My first reaction was anger, that how could she judge me. Even among dancers there wasn’t an understanding.”

That was the impetus for Ms. Cutlip to create Project Dance as a “bridge” between people of faith and the dance world. A secondary goal is to take dance out of the studios and theatres and present it in the streets for all to see. The latest example of this will be the sixth annual Project Dance Times Square, when 44th Street between Broadway and Avenue of the Americas will be closed April 21 for a day of public dance.

“There’s no conflict in doing art to its fullest potential. The greater purpose is to be a messenger of hope wherever you are. If you’re in a Broadway show, then be a messenger of hope in a Broadway show. To me it’s not where it’s done, it’s what you bring to it.”

Related web site
Project Dance
www.projectdance.com

Broadway Underground July 15

Restoring the spirit of entertainment, Broadway Underground floors audiences of every age with spontaneous and rhythmic comedy. Tappers, Jared Grimes and DeWitt Fleming host this "blast from the past" phenomenon filled with amazing talent straight off the New York City streets.

Artists move to this city every day to be discovered. Broadway Underground sifts through the web of talented hopefuls and unleashes sheer raw artistry onto a stage filled with live music and packed audiences. Every show offers new acts and hilarious skits from the real life stories of roommates Jared and DeWitt, who found their start singing and dancing underground in the subways of New York City. The open session ends the evening where artists flock to the stage for their minute of fame as they launch themselves into the den of live talent to be seen by all the world.

NEXT SHOW: JULY 15th @ BBKings on 42nd and Broadway

www.goldstar.com has the best ticket price in town. For more information go to www.broadwayunderground.org

The Need for a New Kind of Culture

Cheryl Cutlip identifies an emerging community of culture creators
Cheryl Cutlip posted 5/19/09

Dancing as a Rockette has taught me a lot: how to kick perfectly in-line with 36 other dancers, how to survive a 200 performance Christmas show season at Radio City, and how to apply red lips and lashes for that on-camera interview with Diane Sawyer. So what can a Rockette contribute to the conversation on culture? Well, I’ve been thinking about more than eye-high kicks lately. As a former Radio City Rockette and student of Westminster Theological Seminary I’d like to explain a new kind of culture that blends art and belief.

Culture is difficult to define. We hear its voice. We see its image. We feel its heartbeat. Popular thoughts and ideas run rampant on the streets enforcing its agenda. As new restaurants, art galleries, and movies hit the streets their fate falls into the hands of the public. Only the strong survive.

On the flip side is subculture. Extracted from culture are pockets of exclusive yet hidden passionate communities with more narrow ideas about life and how it’s lived. Whether The Amish or Goth, subculture exists to give identity and validity to more unique lifestyles and beliefs which allow them to thrive and exist.
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While mainstream culture and subculture move along life’s timeline a brand new kind of culture is emerging all around us. I call this supculture.

Supculture is the artistic infusion of absolute truth within an existing society.

By definition the word sup means to eat or drink in small amounts. This ideology, both excellent and passionate exists to infuse absolute truth in digestible doses. This can be done through direct display of truth within an artistic expression such as Lord of the Rings or The Matrix. It can also be done through the infusion of truth to the people within a given cultural project such as Broadway Underground or The New York City Ballet.

To better understand this new culture we need to observe the characteristics of its people. Their overarching commonality is a shared belief that we exist in a world that has a divine creator who is personal and as a result all of their life work flows out from that solid foundational position.

With this as a starting point let’s explore some of the other unique characteristics of supculture. Because of this strong belief in a personal and divine creator there is a deep affection for the church. In this case, the church is not a building or established denomination. The church is “those who call themselves believers in God through Jesus Christ.”

Though there is a trend among some within the church to simply complain or muse about the church’s treatment, or its lack of knowledge, or poor expression of art this new band of artists rejects such complaints. Those in supculture work to find solutions to problems rather than running from them. They’re willing to take on a responsible role in stewarding art when expressed in and for the church.

While many within church communities have stepped away from culture, those in supculture thrive on its heartbeat and sink deep into its daily flow. Culture is the place where voices on the street are heard, understood, and expressed. To be in the mix of culture is to sharpen one’s communication of their beliefs as well as show compassion and respect for those with whom they strongly disagree.

Let’s examine a common experience of some believing artists. In most cases these artists are expected to outlay their goods in either “The Church” or “The Culture.” If the art is to be offered within the church it needs to specifically fit the expectation of the church and serve its current needs. These needs are based on a particular style of art for a particular purpose which extends out of the particular people group being served in that particular church community. If a church is unable to utilize the skill of an artist in their midst but still has a desire to validate them, they often encourage them to go out into the culture for what is termed, “marketplace ministry.” This current phenomenon within the church makes sense as we know clearly that the Bible teaches us to be in the world but not of the world. We understand that the Bible validates working artists and that by having believer artists sprinkled throughout the marketplace; Christ is therefore impacting many arenas. Once in the marketplace, believers sometimes find themselves challenged on many levels. What started as a purpose driven assignment can become an excuse for mediocrity or a ticket to a life with less integrity than hoped. The current cultural mindset can then lead believing artists to accept less from themselves in areas of personal excellence. In contrast to this, the new flock of supculture creators are bold in their personal integrity while maintaining deep authentic friendships and business relationships with many who do not share in their own personal beliefs.

Often times the church is so far from culture that they lose sight of the very people they’ve encouraged to venture there. This creates an opportunity for working artists to live a secret life in their cultural environment but still seem to remain healthy in their church environment. This divide eventually damages those struggling to maintain their life’s call as an artist while desiring to grow and remain spiritually strong. Supculture bridges the gap for artists. It creates a place for artistic and spiritual excellence and allows both to co-exist without being pulled in one direction or the other. Many believing artists today feel a bit scysophrenic. Supculture reminds them that they are not crazy. They are called to this life of creating masterworks for the world with God’s stamp of approval.

Supculture is not merely marketplace ministry whose highest expectation is to impact others in the marketplace with truth. Supculture takes this notion a step further and longs to take the driver’s seat in the creation of new projects within the marketplace. And, while those within supculture find themselves deeply ingrained in the marketplace they are also equally ingrained within a community of believers in a local church. They flow freely and regularly from the culture to the church and usually have deep rooted friendships in both worlds. Supculture has no specific spiritual agenda. However, since passion for truth is the driving force behind its people and their projects we often see lives changed through it.

We now understand that two pillars uphold this new kind of movement: the church and the culture. Balanced between these two immovable columns is supculture resting hesitantly yet fervently on a tight rope (careful not to slip). Poised as pioneers who’ve come of age within marketplace ministry or birthed out of a short term surge of artists’ acknowledgment by the church comes this unique and powerful display of something new, something supernatural, and something we want to participate in as a way of enriching the human experience.

To help better understand supculture; let’s think about Mel Gibson’s film, The Passion of the Christ. Quite noticeably, this film is infused with absolute truth. The very life of Christ is depicted through cinematography. Director Mel Gibson utilized his artistry and skill to offer the public an excellent film. Both the culture and the church had to sit up and take notice. Though I’ve not had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Gibson, it is my understanding that the views depicted in the film also represent his own personal beliefs. Had he created this film and opposed its beliefs the pillar of the church could have suffered a blow. However, he made it clear that he was a follower of Christ throughout the movie’s debut when asked those questions by the media. On the other hand, had he created a film infused with this kind of absolute truth without using the skill of amazing film professionals, the culture would have laughed at the notion that anyone could believe such a truth. Why? Simply put-our current culture demands quality. The message itself is often secondary to its aesthetic majesty.

Another example of supculture is the variety show Broadway Underground, which the New York Times gave rave reviews. While the content of this show (which I help produce) doesn’t overtly convey absolute truth, those producing it strongly believe in core supculture values. Unbeknownst to the audience, before each show the entire cast circles up for prayer, and those involved attribute its success to their divine creator.

Countless other examples are popping up all over the place and it’s time to give these people and their projects a name all to themselves. The concept of supculture sounds brand new but it’s really age old. As I focus on the person of absolute truth, Jesus Christ, I see that he is the author of supculture. From the streets (culture) to the synagogue (church), Jesus bridged the gap between these two worlds. He was completely committed to culture; it’s where he chose his 12. He honored the synagogue and died to uphold its value. With hands outstretched he said; “For God did not come into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”

Today’s most vibrant culture creators are those who have mastered the ability to tell the truest story in the most excellent way. Might the church and the culture celebrate these who’ve emerged and are here to stay? Now believer artists have a place to call home. It’s the new emerging supculture. Welcome! Now, let’s get to work.

Click here for more information about Cheryl Cutlip