Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Bender Performing Arts’ DanceMotion Performing Company will present its spring production, Backstage USO, at the historic Orpheum Theater in downtown Phoenix.
This high-energy, family-friendly show features 125 talented youth dancers and will run for two public performances: Friday, May 9 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 10 at 2 p.m.
In addition, a special Arts in Education performance for Title I schools will take place on Friday, May 9 at 10 a.m.
Tickets go on sale on April 12 and will be available at benderperformingarts.com.
Backstage USO invites audiences to step into the backstage bustle of a USO production, where an absent-minded stage manager attempts to wrangle a cast of quirky performers preparing for showtime.
DanceMotion, a nonprofit youth dance company housed at Bender Performing Arts, offers dancers ages 7 to 18 the opportunity to grow in their technical training while also serving the community through performance. All rehearsals are held at the BPA studio, and many company members also serve as assistant teachers.
Founded in 1987, DanceMotion is committed to developing well-rounded performers and compassionate leaders. The company stages three professional productions annually and has raised more than $400,000 for local charities through benefit performances.
As a 501(c)(3), DanceMotion also provides scholarships, free after-school programs in underserved schools, and complimentary performances for children in need.
“We’re thrilled to bring Backstage USO to life,” said Shayna Petruccelli, dance director at Bender Performing Arts. “This show captures the joy of performance while honoring the spirit of service and community that DanceMotion is all about.”
