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Kern Dance Alliance Celebrates National Arts and Humanities Month with Exciting Events and National Honors

Kern Dance Alliance (KDA) is thrilled to join the nationwide celebration of National Arts and Humanities Month this October. As a dedicated advocate for dance and the arts in California’s Central Vallet, KDA is honoring the vital contributions of artists, creatives, historians, teachers, and cultural groups that enrich communities across California and the United States. Through partnerships with organizations like the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO), California Dance Education Association (CDEA), and the California Arts Council, KDA continues to foster creativity and cultural vitality.

This month, KDA highlights a series of inspiring events, programs, and achievements that underscore its commitment to accessible arts education and community engagement:

• Tiler Peck at the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater: KDA is proud to partner with New York City Ballet principal dancer Tiler Peck for a special event on October 22. Attendees will enjoy a sneak peek of her new documentary, Suspending Time, alongside the celebration of her latest book, XO Ballerina Big Sis. Tiler Peck will be in attendance, making this a must-attend evening for dance enthusiasts. Tickets will be available through the Fox Theater Box Office.

• National Award Recognition: KDA has been honored with the 2025 Outstanding Dance Education Organization Award from the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO). Representatives from KDA will travel to Detroit this weekend to accept the award and network with fellow educators and awardees from across America. This prestigious recognition celebrates KDA’s impactful work in dance education. Learn more at kerndance.org/kern-dance-alliance-awarded-national-honors/

• ADAPTIdance Jazz + Hip Hop Classes: Registrations are now open for ADAPTIdance, an inclusive program offering Jazz and Hip Hop classes. Designed to empower participants of all abilities, this initiative partners with League of Dreams. Sign up today at kerndance.org/ADAPTidance

• JUST DANCE Adult Pop-Up Dance Class Series: Dive into dance with KDA’s adult series, starting with a Beginning Lindy Hop class on October 1 at 6:00 PM, led by Pamela and Reuben Sosa at Sosa Creatives Dance Academy. No experience required—perfect for beginners looking to swing into the fun. Register at kerndance.org/JUSTDANCE .

• OPEN STAGE Program Returns: Applications are open for KDA’s Open Stage, providing free access to the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater for artists on Sunday, November 30. This platform amplifies local talent and fosters creative expression. Apply now at kerndance.org/OPENSTAGE

• Call for 2026 KDA Interns: KDA is building the next generation of nonprofit leaders with its 2026 Internship Program. Gain hands-on experience in arts administration and community outreach. Applications are open at kerndance.org/GETINVOLVED

• Holiday Performance Support: As the holiday season approaches, KDA is here to help promote local arts events. Submit your details via the Kern County Media Request Form at kerndance.org/GETINVOLVED

“National Arts and Humanities Month is a perfect opportunity to spotlight the transformative power of the arts,” said Executive Director of Kern Dance Alliance. “We’re grateful for our partners and the community that make these initiatives possible, and we invite everyone to join us in celebrating creativity this October!”

KDA encourages the public to follow along on social media and tag @kerndance with their own special National Arts and Humanities Month celebrations!

About Kern Dance Alliance Kern Dance Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting dance as an essential component of arts education and community well-being in Kern County. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and events, KDA strives to make dance accessible to all, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape. 

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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.