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Kern Dance Alliance Announces Open Applications for Free Artist Stage Time at Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater in 2025

The Kern Dance Alliance is excited to announce that applications are now open for its Open Stage 2025 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 2025 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 Kern Dance Alliance. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater to provide this platform, empowering dancers to explore, create, and connect in ways that strengthen our community.”

Key details for Open Stage 2025:

• Event Date and Time: Sunday, November 30, 2025, 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: Monday, November 10, 2025

• Selection Announcement: Friday, November 14, 2025

• Technical Meeting: Required for selected artists on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. via Zoom to discuss needs and expectations. Artists interested in participating can apply online at https://kerndance.org/OPENSTAGE. There are no fees associated with the program, making it accessible to a wide range of creative talents.

About Kern Dance Alliance:

Kern Dance Alliance (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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Jen Thompson

Vice President | Board Member

Jennifer Thompson is a proud Bakersfield native who fell in love with dance before she even started school. She grew up training under the guidance of renowned local instructor Georgia Peck, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for movement and expression. Jennifer pursed her academic education with equal enthusiasm, earning both her BA and MA in English from National University. For over 20 years, she has worked as an English teacher with the Kern High School District, where ahe has inspired generations of students with her love of literature and language. Recently, she has decided to begin a new chapter-transitioning from teaching English to teaching dance. She is thrilled to channel her passion into helping build and strengthen the fine arts program, where she can continue to inspire students through the transformative power of the arts. In addition to her work in education, Jennifer has proudly served as a board member with Kern Dance Alliance for the past four years. She loves the opportunity to bring dance to her community, spreading joy and encouraging creative expression in people of all ages. Outside of the classroom and studio, Jennifer has raised two grown children who are now pursuing their own passions-a journey that continues to inspire her both personally and professionally. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dogs, diving into a good book, and-of course-continuing to take dance classes herself.

Marcie Hronis

President | Board Member

Marcie Hronis is a distinguished author, dedicated arts advocate, accomplished business proprietor, and renowned interview specialist who resides in the vibrant community of Bakersfield, California.

With a dance career spanning nearly two decades, Marcie honed her craft through rigorous classical ballet training under the esteemed Royal Academy of Dance, achieving the pinnacle of her dance education with a distinction in the Advanced II examination. Marcie’s artistic journey included a passion for modern dance, where her formative training was shaped by the profound influences of Lester Horton and Martha Graham.

As the proprietor of Marcie Hronis Communications, she has garnered accolades and recognition as an award-winning interview coach, serving a diverse clientele across the nation.

Marcie is a published author, having penned the highly acclaimed vegan cookbook titled “Believe it or Not” available worldwide on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Wal-Mart.

Furthermore, Marcie has assumed the esteemed position of President of Kern Dance Alliance, stepping into this role in 2023 following the legacy of Andrea Hansen. Her enduring commitment to the organization is exemplified by her role as a founding board member. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role as one of the co-creators of ADAPTIdance: DANCE + DISABILITY, Kern County’s exclusive adaptive dance program in collaboration with the League of Dreams.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Marcie shares her life with her husband, Demetri, and together, they are parents to two children. Both of their children are engaged in pursuits ranging from classical dance, singing, and piano, to the expressive world of painting.