In the heart of Northeast Ohio, the Playhouse Square District transformed into a hub of rhythm and movement in late July 2026. Community Dance Day, an annual event organized by DANCECleveland brought together over 1,200 enthusiasts to celebrate the art of dance in all its forms. From hip hop to flamenco, the event highlighted the diversity and inclusivity of the dance community.
The day kicked off with a lively atmosphere in the Playhouse Square Plaza, where DJ Dutchess and her group of line dancers set the tone. The plaza echoed with the beats of hip hop music, led by instructor Cho Knight as participants of all ages followed along. The event featured a wide array of free dance classes, including ballroom, flamenco, Polynesian, line dance, hip hop, and adaptive dance, catering to both novices and experienced dancers.
The Student Showcase: A Celebration of Talent
The culmination of the day was the student showcase in the Allen Theater, featuring 15 performances from dance studios across Northeast Ohio. Among the participants was Hannah McCallister and her students from Revival Dance Complex who performed a lyrical piece and an open jazz production. The showcase was not a competition but a celebration of the diverse talents and styles represented by the region’s dance studios.
Sarah Sumbrum DANCECleveland’s Marketing and Artistic Director, emphasized the event’s welcoming nature. “Anyone can dance,” she said, encouraging participants to embrace dance regardless of their experience or background. The showcase included performances from various studios, such as Ballet Theater AshtabulaThe Dance Centre and Pacific Paradise Entertainment each bringing their unique style to the stage.
Abrepaso Flamenco: Sharing the Art of Flamenco
Abrepaso Flamenco led by Artistic & Executive Director Alice Lawhorn has been a staple at Community Dance Day for several years. Lawhorn sees the event as an opportunity to share the foundational movement techniques and rich history of flamenco with a broader audience. Flamenco, with its roots in Spain and influences from West Africa, Latin America, and the Romani people, is a dance form deeply connected to the folk life of marginalized communities.
Lawhorn explained that flamenco’s rhythms capture the layers of culture and history, making it accessible to everyone. “You don’t have to know the whole history or speak Spanish. The emotions that come through the music can move people,” she said. Abrepaso Flamenco aims to educate participants about the traditional structures and culture of flamenco while encouraging them to find their voice within the form.
Inclusive Dance: Dancing Wheels and Adaptive Movement
Community Dance Day is designed to be inclusive, welcoming dancers of all abilities. Dancing Wheels a professional dance company featuring dancers of all abilities, has been a long-time participant. Sara Lawrence-Sucato director of education and marketing manager for Dancing Wheels, highlighted the importance of inclusivity in dance. “It’s a real honor because DANCECleveland recognizes that there’s a need for inclusivity and representation in adaptive dance,” she said.
Lawrence-Sucato, who is proficient in both stand-up and wheelchair dance, described the adaptive dance setting as a space where movement is translated beyond the physical. She emphasized the use of visuals and audible speaking cues to engage participants fully. Dancing Wheels provides classes in various styles for people of all abilities, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the art of dance.
Community Dance Day is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the universal language of dance. As Clover Robinson Director of Dance at Ballet Theater Ashtabula, noted, “Dance is a universal language. It is something that unites everyone and when we get to be surrounded by others who are experiencing dance and celebrating that, it only builds up. It only inspires us more.”
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner, Community Dance Day offers a unique opportunity to engage with the dance community. From classes and showcases to performances and volunteer opportunities, there are numerous ways to get involved and celebrate the art of dance.
