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Feast, Dance, and Celebrate Basque Heritage – Taste of Dance Explores Basque Culture in Kern County Through Culinary and Performing Arts 

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Feast, Dance, and Celebrate Basque Heritage - Taste of Dance Explores Basque Culture in Kern County Through Culinary and Performing Arts

KDA, in partnership with the Kern County Basque Club, the CSUB Institute for Basque Studies, and Wool Growers Restaurant, proudly presents Taste of Dance – Basque on Thursday, November 19, from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Wool Growers in Bakersfield.

“Adiskide onekin, orduak labur!” – a Basque proverb meaning “With good friends, the hours are short!” – perfectly captures the spirit of this special evening celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Kern County’s Basque community and its enduring influence on the region. Taste of Dance uniquely pairs culinary and performing arts to explore culture in an immersive, hands-on way.

Hosted at one of Kern County’s most iconic restaurants, Wool Growers, guests will enjoy an interactive dinner program of traditional Basque music, dance, and cuisine, beginning with a social cocktail hour (no-host bar) before an interactive exploration of Basque community life. Guided by Basque historian and author John Ysursa and his work Basque Dance (with references to the history of Basques of Kern County) and Steven Gamboa, Director of the CSUB Institute for Basque Studies, the program examines how performing and culinary arts serves as a living expression of Basque pride and heritage, strengthens bonds across generations, and brings people together.

“Dance and food are at the heart of Bakersfield’s Basque community. Through the “Basque Taste of Dance”, we hope to deepen cultural awareness and celebrate our community’s unique contribution to Kern County.” Dr. Steven Gamboa, Director – CSUB Institute for Basque Studies.

This family-friendly event is open to all ages, inviting multigenerational participation so that community members of every generation can experience and share Basque traditions together. Tickets are $60 and include the meal, beverages, tip, and entertainment. Seating is open, family-style, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. A ticket is required for entry and can be purchased at HERE.

Created as a pilot program by KDA Board Member Noor El Kereamy in 2023, Taste of Dance continues KDA’s mission to unite the community and celebrate Kern County’s cultural diversity. The series has grown with support from California Humanities, a non-profit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities, and has explored various Kern County cultures including Italian, Philippine, Mexican, Polynesian, and Turkish heritages. Through shared experiences in dance, music, and food, the program educates, connects, and fosters appreciation for the traditions that make our community unique.

“My first time performing a Basque dance I felt emotionally connected with a pool of people from various backgrounds. That’s the beauty of dance – the language of connection it offers regardless of backgrounds.” – Noor Elkereamy, KDA Board Member & Creator of Taste of Dance For more information and to purchase tickets, CLICK HERE.

Follow along on social media: @kda-ca, @woolgrowerskc, @kcbasqueclub, @california_humanities.

EVENT ITINERARY

5:00 PM Social + Cocktail Hour

6:00 PM Welcome and Program Kickoff

6:15 PM Traditional Basque Dance + Music Performance #1: Aurreskua

6:50 PM Traditional Basque Dance + Music Performance #2: Mutxikoak

7:25 PM Traditional Basque Dance + Music Performance #3: Biribilketa, Fandango, and Arin-Arin

7:45 PM Audience Dance Lesson, Community Dancing, and Book Giveaways

8:15 PM Closing Remarks

ABOUT KDA

KDA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the arts as an essential part of community life in California’s Central Valley. Through programs like Taste of Dance, KDA celebrates cultural diversity, supports local artists, and creates inclusive experiences that help to enrich the region while promoting cultural vitality.

ABOUT KERN COUNTY BASQUE CLUB

The Kern County Basque Club is a vibrant community organization that preserves and celebrates Basque heritage in California’s Central Valley. Founded in 1944, the club hosts the annual Basque Festival and other gatherings that feature traditional dance, music, sports, and cuisine, while fostering intergenerational connections among Basque families and the broader Bakersfield community.

ABOUT CSUB INSTITUTE FOR BASQUE STUDIES

The California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) Institute for Basque Studies advances scholarship, education, and public engagement focused on Basque history, culture, language, and the Basque diaspora in the American West. Directed by Dr. Steven Gamboa, the Institute supports research, lectures, and community partnerships that highlight the significant contributions of Basques to Kern County and beyond.

ABOUT WOOL GROWERS

Wool Growers is a historic Bakersfield institution and iconic Basque restaurant, serving traditional family-style meals since 1954. Known for its authentic cuisine, communal dining tables, and deep ties to the local Basque community, Wool Growers has long been a gathering place where culture, hospitality, and hearty food come together. 

 

 

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KDA Opens Applications for 2027 Internship Program 

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KDA Opens Applications for 2027 Internship Program

KDA, a nonprofit arts organization supporting and promoting dance and the arts in California’s Central Valley, is now accepting applications for its 2027 internship program.

KDA is seeking highly organized, detail-oriented intern(s) who can meet deadlines, manage multiple tasks, take initiative, and support the KDA Board of Directors throughout the year. The internship is a volunteer position and a strong résumé-builder. Interns may earn points toward induction into the KDA National Honor Society for Dance Arts Secondary Chapter, complete high school or college service hours, receive letters of recommendation, and gain hands-on experience in arts administration.

The 2027 internship runs January 1 through December 31, 2027. Interns are expected to commit approximately 10–20 hours per month. Working under the supervision of the KDA President and Executive Director, interns will assist across event coordination, development, social media, communications, and administration.

Responsibilities may include:

• General administrative support, including filing, organizing, data entry, and social media

• Donor and member follow-up and thank-you processes

• Event coordination for programming and development

• Volunteer management

• Writing blogs, website content, and newsletter support

• Completing a passion project

Preferred qualifications:

• Passion for dance and the arts • Current KDA membership at the $35 Student level

• Experience in event planning, leadership, and communications • Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills

• Familiarity with nonprofit environments and a willingness to help where needed

• Proficiency with Mac and Windows systems, Microsoft Office, email, and social media

• A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and team-player mindset

Internships are unpaid but may be used for course credit. Interns receive a letter of recommendation upon request and discounted access to KDA events. Participants gain experience supporting events and office operations, familiarity with KDA’s mission, nonprofit skills, and stronger research, writing, networking, and organizational abilities.

APPLY

Applicants must submit a completed application form, cover letter, résumé, and two letters of recommendation – kerndance.org/GETINVOLVED

Application deadline: Friday, November 13, 2026

Apply at: https://form.jotform.com/kerndance/kda-student-internship-application For more information, visit kerndance.org. 

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KDA Announces Open Applications for FREE Artist Stage Time at Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater in 2026 

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KDA Announces Open Applications for FREE Artist Stage Time at Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater in 2026

KDA has announced that applications are now open for its Open Stage 2026 program, offering local artists a unique opportunity to take command of the stage at the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater for free. This initiative invites dancers and performers to curate creative experiences, fostering innovation and community engagement in California’s Central Valleys.

Open Stage 2026 provides selected artists with 1-2 hour time slots on the iconic Fox Theater stage, complete with access to technical staff and theater amenities at no cost. Participants can use the space for a variety of purposes, including developing choreography, presenting holiday shows, collaborating with fellow artists, performing for friends and family, filming social media content like TikToks, or creating professional audition reels. The program is designed to remove financial barriers, spark creativity, support professional growth, and enhance economic prosperity while celebrating cultural diversity and the value of artistic contributions in the region.

“Open Stage is about making grand dreams a reality for our local artists,” said Andrea Hansen, Executive Director of KDA. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater to provide this platform, empowering artists to explore, create, and connect in ways that strengthen our community.”

There are no fees associated with the program, making it accessible to a wide range of creative talents.

OPEN STAGE 2026:

• Event Date and Time: Sunday, November 29, 2026, with slots available between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (up to five 1-2 hour slots)

• Location: Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301

• Application Deadline: Friday, October 30, 2026

• Selection Announcement: Friday, November 6, 2026

• Technical Meeting: Required for selected artists on Thursday, November 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. via Zoom to discuss needs and expectations.

APPLY: Artists interested in participating can apply online at kerndance.org/OPENSTAGE. 

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KDA Celebrates National Arts & Humanities Month with Fall Programs Across California’s Central Valley

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KDA Celebrates National Arts & Humanities Month with Fall Programs Across California’s Central Valley

KDA joins communities nationwide in celebrating National Arts & Humanities Month throughout October 2026, honoring the artists, educators, historians, cultural groups, and partners whose work strengthens civic life.

Established by Americans for the Arts and observed each October, National Arts & Humanities Month is the country’s largest annual celebration of culture. It calls attention to the role the arts and humanities play in connecting people, preserving heritage, supporting education, and building healthier, more vibrant communities. KDA’s work in California’s Central Valley reflects that purpose every day: expanding access to dance and the arts, investing in local artists, and creating public programs that bring neighbors together.

“The arts are not an extra. They are how communities tell their stories, welcome new generations, and stay connected,” said Andrea Hansen, Executive Director of KDA. “National Arts & Humanities Month is a reminder that when we invest in and support artists, teachers, and cultural partners, we invest in a stronger Central Valley.” 

A CALL TO ACTION

National Arts & Humanities Month is an invitation to attend a performance, support a classroom, visit a cultural space, or thank the people who keep local arts alive. KDA’s fall calendar is built around that invitation: more access for artists, more stages for community work, and more ways for the Central Valley to see itself reflected in arts and humanities celebrations. This October, KDA is celebrating work happening with partners across California and the United States while previewing a busy fall season in Kern County and beyond. 


KDA Internship Applications Now Open
KDA is seeking student intern(s) interested in serving California’s Central Valley through the arts. The yearlong volunteer internship offers hands-on nonprofit experience in event coordination, communications, development, and administration. Applications are open now. Apply: https://form.jotform.com/kerndance/kda-student-internship-application

Open Stage Returns November 29
KDA is once again offering artists free access to the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater stage, including technical staff and theater amenities. Selected artists may use 1–2 hour slots on Sunday, November 29, 2026, to rehearse, perform, collaborate, film, or present holiday work. Applications are open now, with a deadline of Friday, October 30, 2026. Apply: kerndance.org/OPENSTAGE

Celebrating KDA Individual Artist Fellows
This fall, KDA will spotlight the KDA Individual Artist Fellows making an impact in Central Valley and Eastern Sierra communities. Through the California Arts Council Individual Artists Fellowship program administered by KDA, unrestricted fellowships support artists and culture bearers across the region.

Taste of Dance – Basque
KDA will continue its Taste of Dance series, which celebrates Kern County cultures through the performing and culinary arts. The next installment will explore Basque heritage during an evening at Woolgrowers in November. Tickets will launch soon.

Holiday Events Across Kern County
Holiday performances are approaching, and KDA will help share festive community events. Organizations and artists may submit details through KDA’s Kern County Media Request Form so the Alliance can help spread the news. Learn more at kerndance.org.

ABOUT KDA:
KDA is a nonprofit arts agency dedicated to supporting and promoting dance and the arts in California’s Central Valleys, with a focus on Kern County. Through innovative programs, events, and educational initiatives, KDA impacts thousands of lives, champions cultural diversity, and fosters creative expression to build stronger communities. 

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KDA CELEBRATES NATIONAL DANCE DAY with COMMUNITY EVENT at DIGNITY HEALTH THEATER 

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KDA CELEBRATES NATIONAL DANCE DAY with COMMUNITY EVENT at DIGNITY HEALTH THEATER

KDA (Kern Dance Alliance) will host its National Dance Day celebration on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm at Dignity Health Theater. The daylong dance convention will offer accessible classes, workshops, and seminars taught by local, national, and internationally renowned artists. National Dance Day 2026 is focused on celebrating movers of all ages, levels, and abilities and inspiring every walk of life to keep moving. The event will also feature a vendor marketplace open to the public and focused on health, wellness, the arts, and an improved quality of life.

The KDA National Dance Day will feature 40+ beginning-to-advanced $5 classes for children through adults in styles ranging from folklorico to line dance, hip hop to swing, ballet to tap, jazz, lyrical, musical theater, bachata, Charleston, Lindy Hop, Scandinavian folk dance, Zumba, Pilates, and more. Returning favorites include Seniors: Dancing Through the Decades, ADAPTIdance® for All, youth and family classes, college and high school dance team prep sessions, and classes led by international renown guest artists.

Taught by 25 Kern County dance instructors, as well as 5 celebrity dance artists representing many of America’s finest dance institutions, the event will offer the Kern County community an opportunity to to try a dance class for the first time or advance a dancers’ technique by training with today’s most respected instructors. National Dance Day 2026 is generously sponsored by KGET – Channel 17, Stockdale Podiatry Group, and Core Chiropractic.

ABOUT NATIONAL DANCE DAY Established in 2010 by American Dance Movement co-founder Nigel Lythgoe of American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, National Dance Day is an annual celebration dedicated to dance that encourages people of all ages to incorporate movement into their lives. Celebrated nationally, KDA will host its community holiday at Dignity Health Theater.

NATIONAL DANCE DAY TICKETS + SCHEDULE National Dance Day tickets are ONLY $5 a class. To purchase National Dance Day tickets and view the full schedule, visit kerndance.org/DANCEDAY.

FOR MORE INFORMATION kerndance.org/DANCEDAY / email info@kerndance.org

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NATIONAL DANCE DAY 2026 (CONDENSED) ITINERARY

10:00 am – 8:00 pm – Classes, workshops, seminars, marketplace, and Open Stage

10:00 – 10:45 am – Mixed Level Zumba with Nesi Sheldon; Pilates Strength and Conditioning for Dancers with Stephanie Bartell-Vadas; Beg Hip Hop for Kids Ages 3–6 with Catalina Arias; Beg/Int Folklorico with Felisa Patiño-Longoria

10:45 – NDD PROCLAMATION with Mayor Karen Goh and local dignitaries

11:00 am – 12:20 pm – Pro Master Class: Int/Adv Musical Theater for Broadway with Jessica Lea Patty

11:00 – 11:50 am – Seniors: Dancing Through the Decades with Jennifer Thompson; Mixed Level Hip Hop with DAT Krew Academy; Beginning Ballet Ages 3–6 with Riley Juliet Thompson; Mixed Level Line Dancing with Joel Hoffman

12:30 – 1:50 pm – Pro Master Class: Int/Adv Ballet with Adji Cissoko

12:00 – 12:50 pm – ADAPTIdance® for All with Myka Steele; Mixed Level Lyrical with Meghan Boggess; Mixed Level Tap with Victoria Marchetti

2:00 – 3:20 pm — Pro Master Class: Int/Adv Ballet Pas De Deux with Shuaib Elhassan

1:00 – 1:50 pm – College Dance Team Prep for HS Students with Lauren Shearon; Mixed Level Ballet Ages 7+ with Kristen McLaughlin; ProLevel Connect Seminar with Jessica Powers; High School Pom Team Experience for Elem/Jr High Students with Rosanna Markham; Mixed Level Country Swing with Josh Harless

3:30 – 4:50 pm – Pro Masterclass: Int/Adv Hip Hop with Lil Buck

2:00 – 2:50 pm – Int/Adv Jazz Technique with Kaci Crowell; Mixed Level Hip Hop with Naomi Rivera; Mixed Level Musical Theater with Riley Juliet Thompson; Mixed Level Urban Bachata with Veronica Hidalgo

3:00 – 3:50 pm – Mixed Level Jazz with Valentina Serrano; Int/Adv Turns and Leaps with Mindi Schiefelbein; Mixed Level Scandinavian Folk Dance with Bernie Johansen

4:00 – 4:50 pm – Advanced Contemporary with Romy Hernandez; Beg/Int Contemporary with Riley Juliet Thompson; Movement is Therapy: Dancing in 3D with Andrew “Dance Fever” Jones; Mixed Level Lindy Hop Swing Dance with Tony Fraser and Suze DeArmond

5:00 – 6:20 pm – Pro Masterclass: Int/Adv Contemporary with Marissa Powers

5:00 – 5:50 pm – Beg/Int Adult Jazz Funk with Ashley Choate; Mixed Level Solo Charleston with Reuben & Pamela Sosa

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KDA Announces California Arts Council Individual Artists Fellowship Awards in the Central Valley & Eastern Sierra

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KDA Announces California Arts Council Individual Artists Fellowship Awards in the Central Valley & Eastern Sierra

Unrestricted Fellowships Totaling $360,000 Support Artists Across 13 Counties

KDA (Kern Dance Alliance) has announced the recipients of the 2026 KDA Individual Artists Fellowship (KDAIAF) awards. Funded by a grant from the California Arts Council (CAC), the program provides unrestricted fellowships totaling $360,000 to individual artists and culture bearers living, working, and/or serving in California’s Central Valley and Eastern Sierra region.

Selected from 265 applications requesting more than $4.55 million, the 34 awards recognize artistic excellence, sustained creative practice, and meaningful community impact. KDA is one of only eight organizations statewide chosen by the CAC to administer this highly competitive initiative. Due to limited available funding, only 8% of applicants were selected for a KDAIAF award.

Awards were determined through a rigorous, confidential peer-review process conducted by a panel of regional artists, culture bearers, and arts professionals who evaluated applications using published criteria focused on artistic excellence, sustained practice, and community impact.

The fellowships will help spark artistic entrepreneurship, free arts programs for youth and seniors, powerful new cultural works, mobile workshops reaching rural and underserved communities, and deeper connections across the counties KDA serves.

 “Artists are essential to the health, identity, and economic vitality of our communities,” said Andrea Hansen, KDA Executive Director and KDAIAF Program Director. “These fellows represent the extraordinary talent and resilience of our region. We are honored to invest in their practices and look forward to the creative work they will continue to share across the Central Valley and Eastern Sierra.”

Although KDA deeply regrets that they could not fund every deserving application, they value the vital work of all artists who applied. Every submission reflected the rich creativity and dedication present throughout the region. KDA remains committed to advocating for increased state funding allocations that will expand future opportunities for artists and culture bearers in California’s Central Valley and Eastern Sierra, and encourages community members, elected officials, and partners to join them in that effort.

After administrative costs, all $360,000 is restricted solely to direct fellowship awards. None of the funds support KDA’s existing programs or operations.

The KDAIAF serves artists and culture bearers in 14 counties: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, and Tuolumne. The 34 fellows represent 13 of the 14 counties (applications were not submitted from Amador county) in KDA’s service area, underscoring the program’s commitment to equitable access for artists throughout the Central Valley and Eastern Sierra.

 2026 KDAIAF AWARD BREAKDOWN

  • Legacy Artist Fellows (3 awards of $50,000 each – $150,000 total) 
  • Established Artist Fellows (11 awards of $10,000 each – $110,000 total) 
  • Emerging Artist Fellows (20 awards of $5,000 each – $100,000 total)

All awards are unrestricted and matching funds were not required. The Fellowship Activity Period runs August 1, 2026 – August 1, 2027. Fellows will use their awards to enhance their creative practice and artistic entrepreneurship while participating in virtual convenings along with ongoing professional development workshops and networking opportunities throughout the one-year fellowship period.

Legacy Artist Fellows ($50,000)

  • Bobby Von Martin – Fresno: Cultural Bearer/Indigenous Practice 
  • Edna Garabedian – Madera: Music/Opera 
  • Kristen Elizabeth McLaughlin – Kern: Dance & Movement


Established Artist Fellows ($10,000)

  • Anthony Laurence Imperatrice – Fresno: Music, Media & Digital Arts 
  • Corey Brian Strauss – Stanislaus: Theater & Performance 
  • Erick Jovanny Rodriguez Ordoñez – Kern: Interdisciplinary & Social Practice 
  • Francisco Javier Alonso Sanchez – Tulare: Visual Arts 
  • Halima Lucas – San Joaquin: Literary Arts, Media & Digital Arts 
  • Ka’eo Koapaka Yoshikawa – Fresno: Literary Arts 
  • Martha Diana Ramirez – Kern: Literary Arts 
  • Michael Willis – Kern: Design & Applied Arts 
  • Richard Garrett Masterson – Madera: Visual Arts 
  • Valerie Anglen – Tulare: Visual Arts 
  • Victor M. Torres – Fresno: Dance & Movement


Emerging Artist Fellows ($5,000)

  • Alicia Ramona van de Bor – San Joaquin: Visual Arts 
  • Amanda Lee Stone – Kings: Literary Arts / Visual Arts 
  • Antonio Anaya Tapia – Stanislaus: Design & Applied Arts 
  • Ashlee Albrecht – Merced: Visual Arts 
  • Benjamin Blaine Ditto – Inyo: Visual Arts 
  • Brian Le Bui – San Joaquin: Culture Bearer 
  • Desirae Washington – Fresno: Media & Digital Arts 
  • Holly Meagher – Kings: Visual Arts 
  • Jacob Hazzard Been – Stanislaus: Visual Arts 
  • Jesse James Hunt – Merced: Visual Arts 
  • Laura D. Perrone – Stanislaus: Visual Arts, Design & Applied Arts 
  • Margaret Ruth Sloan – Calaveras: Literary Arts, Visual Arts 
  • Maria Fernanda Rosas – Fresno: Visual Arts 
  • Martha L. Gonzalez – Kern: Dance & Movement 
  • Michaela Carole Graves – Tuolumne: Visual Arts 
  • Nathaniel Scott Norman – Tulare: Interdisciplinary, Visual Arts 
  • Ruth Soderlund – Fresno: Visual Arts 
  • Susan Lee Bains – Mono: Visual Arts 
  • Tabatha Mills – Kern: Literary Arts 
  • Troian M. G. Cummings – Mariposa: Visual Arts

FELLOWS HIGHLIGHTS

  • Kristen Elizabeth McLaughlin (Legacy Artist Fellow, Kern County) will expand free and scholarship-supported programs that bring interactive arts workshops to children ages 4 – 8, immersive “Concerts 4 Kids,” and intergenerational movement sessions for seniors in assisted-living facilities – removing financial barriers while creating local artistic jobs.
  • Corey Brian Strauss (Established Artist Fellow, Stanislaus County) will deliver more than 20 free, high-quality live theatre performances directly onto elementary school campuses, prioritizing schools with limited arts access and giving thousands of students their first professional performing arts experience.
  • Holly Meagher (Emerging Artist Fellow, Kings County) will launch “Wheels on Wheels,” a mobile ceramics program that brings affordable, hands-on pottery workshops to schools, community events, and public spaces throughout Kings County’s military and rural communities, eliminating the one-hour travel barrier to the nearest studio.

Fellows were notified of their awards on July 31, 2026.

Follow the announcement and future updates on Instagram (@kda-ca) and Facebook (@KDA).

Full program details and the complete list of awardees are available at kda-ca.org/IAF.

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KDA is excited to announce the return of National Dance Day 2026

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KDA is excited to announce the return of National Dance Day 2026 on Saturday, September 19, at the Dignity Health Theater in downtown Bakersfield.

Join us for a full day of dance featuring classes for all ages and experience levels taught by talented local instructors and professional guest artists. The celebration will also include a community marketplace, and opportunities to connect with dancers from across California’s Central Valley. Teacher applications open soon!

ABOUT NATIONAL DANCE DAY

Established in 2010 by American Dance Movement co-founder, Nigel Lythgoe, and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, National Dance Day is an annual celebration dedicated to dance, that encourages Americans of all ages to incorporate dance into their lives. By creating a focused day of celebration to show support for dance as a valuable form of exercise and of artistic expression, American Dance Movement aims to educate the public about dance and its many benefits, as well as make dance accessible and inclusive to everyone.

American Dance Movement (ADM) believes that participation in dance connects the mind and body, promotes health and wellbeing, connects us with others and enables us to find joy through dance and movement. National Dance Day (NDD) is a day of celebrating dance, in all its forms, and takes place annually on the third Saturday in September.

Accessible to everyone at every ability level, National Dance Day provides:

~ An instructional video, made available online, for people to view, learn and share with others wherever they are.

~ American Dance Movement Co-Hosted events in two key cities, providing free dance classes and performances for all ages and skills levels, with information from a range of community dance organizations

~ Nation-wide Event Registration that encourages and supports individuals & communities, as they celebrate NDD

~ Strong online presence, allowing everyone to participate, no matter where they are across America

Courtesy of the American Dance Movement.

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ABOUT KDA

KDA is a nonprofit arts advocacy organization dedicated to supporting, strengthening, and advancing dance and the arts throughout Kern County and California’s Central Valley.

For more than a decade, KDA has connected communities through innovative arts education, performances, advocacy, and grantmaking. In 2025, KDA was named the Outstanding Dance Education Organization of the Year by the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO) in recognition of its leadership and commitment to making dance accessible for everyone.

Today, KDA has served more than 200,000 community members, created over 3,500 jobs and invested over $6 million into arts initiatives throughout California’s Central Valley.

For more information visit kerndance.org/danceday

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Kern Dance Alliance and Kern County Library Celebrate 10 Years of Books in Motion®: DANCE + LITERACY 

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Kern Dance Alliance and Kern County Library Celebrate 10 Years of Books in Motion®: DANCE + LITERACY with Record Growth, New Anniversary Initiatives, and Expanded Community Reach

Kern Dance Alliance (KDA) and Kern County Library proudly announce the launch of the 10th anniversary season of Books in Motion®: DANCE + LITERACY, running July 6 – August 1, 2026, at libraries, schools, and community centers across Kern County.

This milestone year celebrates a decade of bringing stories to life through the arts while introducing special commemorative offerings and building on the program’s success.

All Books in Motion events are free and family-friendly. Families can attend one show or visit multiple performances throughout the summer to experience the diversity of the program. Every child receives one free book per show, giving families the exciting opportunity to collect up to all 12 books to build their own home libraries and reinforce literacy goals at home. “For ten years, Books in Motion has brought beloved children’s stories to life through the magic of the arts, inspiring thousands of young readers across Kern County to connect reading, creativity, and physical expression,” said Andrea Hansen, Executive Director of KDA. “This anniversary season we’re making it even more special with new ways for families to participate and be celebrated.”

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BOOKS IN MOTION BIBLIOGRAPHY

Children will experience 12 beloved children’s books including Aloha, Hawaii, Coco, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, Bluey: Bob Bilby, The Sleeping Beauty, The Princess and the Frog, Team Up! (Toy Story), I Got The School Spirit, I Am Enough, If I Ran Your School, and The Ugly Duckling through live performances and dynamic dance performances with many multilingual performances in English, Spanish, and ASL.

10th ANNIVERSARY TOUR SCHEDULE

The full 2026 tour schedule is available now at kerndance.org/BIM and features 50 performances at 24 locations in communities across Kern County from Delano to Rosamond.

Upcoming Shows:

July 6 @ 2:00 pm – Beale Library: “The Sleeping Beauty” by Bakersfield City Ballet

July 7 @ 2:00 pm – Baker Library: “I Got The School Spirit” by Liberty High School Dance Team

July 8 @ 2:00 pm – Southwest Library: “Coco” by Ballet Folklorico Huaztelcalli

July 9 @ 2:00 pm – Northeast Library: “The Princess and the Frog” by DAT Krew Academy

July 10 @ 3:00 pm – Rathbun Library: “Bluey: Bob Bilby” by Spotlight Dance Academy

July 11 @ 10:30 am – Arvin Library: “I Am Enough” by Lions Elite

 

10th ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIONS

• Kern County Board of Supervisors Proclaim July as Books in Motion Month – On July 14 at 9:00 am at the Kern County Board of Supervisors Meeting in the Kern County Administration Building.

• Books in Motion Commemorative Library Card – The countdown is on until the public can add the newest specially designed Books in Motion library card to their wallet. Sign up for this special keepsake launching this summer to celebrate 10 years!

• Books in Motion Summer Reading Challenge – Children are invited to participate in the Books in Motion reading challenge designed to encourage a love of reading throughout the summer. Participants who complete the challenge will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win the coveted “Books in Motion Champion Reader” t-shirt.

• FREE Books, Crafts, and 10-Year Anniversary Stickers – Provided to every Books in Motion participant to build their home libraries and celebrate the festivities!

BOOKS IN MOTION PARTNERS + SPONSORS

This year’s program is presented by KDA and the Kern County Library and features performances by 12 local dance organizations: Aloha Entertainment by Polynesian Spice, Bakersfield City Ballet, Ballet Folklorico Huaztecalli, Civic Dance Center, DAT Krew Academy, J&M Dance Center, McLaughlin Dance Collective, Spotlight Dance Academy, Spotlight Academy of the Arts, Sosa Creatives Dance Academy, Lions Elite, and Liberty High School. The program is made possible through the generous support from the California Arts Council, 23ABC, Virginia and Alfred Harrell Foundation, Amicus Foundation, Blue Zones Project, Kern County Library Foundation, Valley Strong, Ability Central, California Resource Corporation (CRC), and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Additionally community partnerships include the Independent Living Center of Kern County, Russo’s Books, and Shafter Library and Learning Center

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BOOKS IN MOTION IN KERN COUNTY SCHOOLS

The program continues its valued partnership with Panama Buena Vista Unified School District, where Books in Motion and all 12 featured books will be highlighted at multiple school sites from June 16 – July 7.

PROVEN IMPACT + GROWTH

Since launching in 2016, Books in Motion has reached more than 20,000 children, distributed 15,000 free books, and brought 76 children’s book titles to life through dance. More than 1,000 artists have participated over the decade. The 2025 season delivered the strongest numbers yet: • 50 performances across 20 sites • 5,141 participants • 5,595 free books given away • 235 artists from 12 dance organizations Participant surveys showed powerful results: • 91.7% said the performance inspired them to read • 89.0% said it inspired them to dance • 72.1% were repeat attendees “We know that not everybody learns the same way… Books in Motion really helps us in that effort,” noted Genevieve Egana, Kern County librarian.

BOOKS IN MOTION PRESS KIT

High-resolution photos, videos, graphics, and the printable 2026 tour calendar are available HERE.

ABOUT KDA

KDA is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the arts throughout California’s Central Valley. Since 2015, KDA has served over 200,000 people through their diverse programs and services. In 2025, KDA was named America’s Outstanding Dance Education Organization of the Year. Learn more at kerndance.org.

ABOUT KERN COUNTY LIBRARY

Kern County Library is dedicated to building community and cultivating opportunities for Kern County residents, by connecting people, ideas, information, and technology.

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KDA Opens Applications for SHINE 2026 Summer Program in Bakersfield

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KDA Opens Applications for SHINE 2026 Summer Program in Bakersfield

Free One-Week Dance + Math Program for Middle School Girls Now Accepting Student and Mentor Applications 

Kern Dance Alliance (KDA) is now accepting applications for both students and mentors for the SHINE: DANCE + MATH = SUCCESS 2026 Summer Program in Bakersfield. The nationally recognized, free one-week program combines formal dance training with rigorous, kinesthetic math instruction to help middle school girls improve their math skills, build confidence, and explore STEAM careers.

SHINE serves girls in grades 6 – 8 and uses a proprietary curriculum aligned with national math standards. Daily sessions include snacks and bonding, hands-on math activities through movement, dance technique and choreography, and small-group tutoring. The week culminates in a celebratory performance featuring original choreography, solo performances, and guest speakers for family, friends, and teachers. Since its launch, SHINE has served nearly 300 girls and mentors with remarkable results: 100% of participating girls improved their math scores and reported greater confidence, while 94% gained stronger interest in STEAM fields.

Program Details – Bakersfield 2026

  • Dates: Monday, July 20 through Friday, July 24, 2026
  • Time: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. daily
  • Location: Garces Memorial High School Dance Studio, 2800 Loma Linda Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93305

Application Information

Applications for both students and mentors are open now and must be submitted by Friday, July 10, 2026.

  • Students: Open to all Bakersfield-area girls entering grades 6–8 in fall 2026. No dance or math experience is required—just enthusiasm and a desire to grow.
  • Mentors: Open to local high school and college women with strong math backgrounds, tutoring experience, dance training, and a passion for empowering girls. Mentors receive customized online certification and a half-day training session on Thursday, July 16, 2026. All mentors must pass a background check.

The program is completely free for all participants, thanks to generous support from local sponsors and donors. Space is limited to 30 girls and 15 mentors per session. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early submission is encouraged. Girls not selected for the 2026 summer session will be offered spots in future programs.

“SHINE for Girls is the program I wished I could’ve been a part of as a young teen!” said Jessica Reyes, SHINE Lead Mentor. “Through mentorship and tutoring we show girls what it looks like to be a woman in STEM, and how they can get there too! We also use dance as a way to reinforce their math skills and help build the confidence to put themselves out there and SHINE both on stage and in the classroom.”

Bakersfield is the first city in California and on the entire West Coast to host the SHINE program through its partnership with KDA. The 2026 program is proudly supported by Garces Memorial High School.

To apply or learn more, visit kerndance.org/shine/bakersfield/ or contact KDA at info@kerndance.org.

LINK: SHINE PRESS KIT

About KDA

KDA (Kern Dance Alliance) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing dance education, performance, and community outreach throughout Kern County. Through innovative programs like SHINE, KDA empowers people to discover their potential in the arts, academics, and beyond.

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KDA Selected to Administer California Arts Council Individual Artists Fellowship Program for Central Valley & Eastern Sierra Counties 

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KDA selected by California Arts Council to administer the Individual Artists Fellowship Program for Central Valley & Eastern Sierra Counties

Unrestricted Fellowship Awards - Up to $50,000 - Available to Individual Artists

KDA (Kern Dance Alliance), announced it was selected by the California Arts Council (CAC) to administer a $450,000 Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) Program for California’s Central Valley and Eastern Sierra region. KDA is one of only eight organizations statewide chosen to steward this highly competitive initiative.

“Artists are essential to the health, identity, and economic vitality of our communities,” said Executive Director of KDA, Andrea Hansen. “Being selected to administer this program allows KDA to directly support the creative workforce across 14 counties, ensuring that artists have the resources they need to thrive and that public investment in the arts reaches every corner of our region.”

This statewide initiative will provide up to $50,000 in unrestricted funding to individual artists and culture bearers at Emerging, Established, and Legacy career stages. The program recognizes artistic excellence, sustained creative practice, and meaningful community impact, while advancing economic opportunity and equitable access to public arts funding across California.

RESTRICTED FUNDING FOR KDA 

After administrative costs are deducted, KDA will oversee the distribution of approximately $360,000 in fellowship awards. None of these funds will be used to support KDA’s existing programs or operations. All funding is restricted to program administration and direct regranting to individual artists. KDA’s role is to ensure a fair and transparent process, expand access across the region, and provide professional development support to fellows throughout the program.

SERVICE REGION 

The KDA Individual Artists Fellowship (KDAIAF) serves artists and culture bearers living, working, and/or serving in the following 14 counties: 

Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare and Tuolumne. 

AWARD AMOUNTS 

● Emerging Artist Fellow: $5,000 

● Established Artist Fellow: $10,000 

● Legacy Artist Fellow: $50,000 

All awards are unrestricted and matching funds are NOT required. 

ELIGIBILITY 

Applicants must: 

● Be 18 years of age or older 

● Be a California-based individual artist or culture bearer 

● Show two consecutive years of California residency 

● Live, work, and/or serve within the 14-county service region 

● Apply as an individual artist (groups, collectives, and fiscal sponsors are not eligible) 

● Submit work samples and one letter of recommendation 

GRANT WRITING EDUCATION + TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE WEBINARS

KDA will offer free grant writing education and technical assistance webinars throughout May to support artists at all career stages. Webinars will be held live via Zoom and recorded for later viewing. May 4 @ 12:00 pm – Individual Artists Fellowship Overview / Which Tier Should I Apply For? May 11 @ 12:00 pm – Creating a Strong Individual Artists Fellowship Application May 18 @ 12:00 pm – Individual Artists Fellowship Application Tech Support

TIMELINE 

● Applications Open: May 1, 2026 

● Education Webinars: Mondays on May 4, May 11, May 18 @ 12:00 pm via Zoom 

● Application Deadline: June 12, 2026 (11:59 PM) 

● Fellowship Activity Period: August 1, 2026 – August 1, 2027 

GRANT GUIDELINES

Applicants can learn more about eligibility, fellowship tiers, and application requirements by downloading the KDA Individual Artists Fellowship Grant Program Guidelines at kda-ca.org/IAF. 

INTEREST FORM

Applicants are encouraged to submit an interest form found at kda-ca.org/IAF to stay up to date prior to the application opening on May 1.

APPLY 

Applicants can access the application portal at kda-ca.org/IAF on May 1.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Updates, reminders, and webinar announcements will also be shared on KDA’s social media channels – Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

General Inquiries: hello@kda-ca.org

ABOUT KDA 

KDA (Kern Dance Alliance) is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to using the arts to improve life throughout California’s Central Valleys. Through programs, services, grant making, education, and community partnerships, KDA promotes economic development by supporting artists and communities while fostering inclusive and equitable arts opportunities. From 2023-2025, KDA administered the $4.2 million KDA Creative Corps program, a regional regranting program funded by the California Arts Council that created thousands of jobs in the arts and programs that served the Central Valley and Eastern Sierra. KDA has served over 200,000 people and has raised $6 million for the arts in the region since 2015. 

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KDA to Participate in Give Big Kern 2026 

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KDA to Participate in Give Big Kern 2026

 KDA is proud to announce its participation in Give Big Kern, the Kern Community Foundation’s 24-hour community-wide fundraising event on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

Give Big Kern brings together donors across Kern County for one powerful day of giving to support local nonprofits. KDA is excited to join this effort alongside other outstanding Kern County organizations dedicated to strengthening our community through mission-based work.

“KDA is thrilled to take part in Give Big Kern and invites our supporters, artists, families, and the entire Kern County community to help us ignite creativity through the arts,” said KDA Executive Director, Andrea Hansen. “Every donation will directly support our programs that bring meaningful arts experiences, education, and creative opportunities to people of all ages across the region.”

Donations to KDA during Give Big Kern start at just $5 and are fully tax-deductible. All proceeds will fuel KDA’s arts programs, including education initiatives, community performances, outreach efforts, and creative development projects that enrich lives and build stronger community connections through the power of the arts.

 

How to Give

KDA encourages everyone who believes in the transformative power of the arts to “Give Big” and help sustain vital creative programming in Kern County.

About KDA

KDA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to igniting

creativity through the arts. The organization provides inclusive arts education, performances, and community programs designed to inspire, educate, and connect people of all ages and backgrounds across California’s Central Valley.

To learn more about Give Big Kern please visit https://www.givebigkern.org.

For More Information – Email info@kerndance.org

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