NCCAkron Celebrates 10th Anniversary with “Dance Party Through the Decades”
Our take

The National Center for Choreography–Akron (NCCAkron) is gearing up for a significant milestone as it celebrates its 10th Anniversary with a vibrant “Dance Party Through the Decades.” This event, scheduled for June 20, invites the community to not only commemorate a decade of artistic innovation and collaboration but also to enjoy the universal language of dance and music. It is a celebration that resonates deeply with the values of connection and expression, themes that have become increasingly vital in our society. As noted in recent articles like NCCAkron Launches 18-Month 10th Anniversary Celebration and NCCAkron Continues ‘Making Moves’ National Tour, this celebration is part of a broader initiative to elevate dance as an essential art form that fosters community engagement and personal growth.
The “Dance Party Through the Decades” serves as a reminder of the transformative power of dance. It brings together not just dancers but also the entire community, creating an inclusive atmosphere where individuals of all backgrounds can express themselves freely. This aligns perfectly with the ethos of body positivity and self-acceptance that I champion. Dance, in all its forms, allows us to connect with our bodies in a way that promotes self-love and appreciation. The event will feature contributions from notable NCCAkron alumni, showcasing a wide range of styles and influences, each representing a decade of dance history. This diversity not only enriches the event but also highlights how dance has evolved over time, reflecting the societal changes and cultural movements that have shaped our experiences.
Moreover, the celebration underlines the importance of spaces that support artistic exploration and innovation. The NCCAkron has established itself as a national hub for dance research and development, a role that is crucial in an era where the arts often face challenges in securing funding and visibility. This commitment to nurturing creativity is vital for emerging artists and established professionals alike, fostering an environment where new ideas can flourish. The impact of such an institution extends beyond the dance community; it influences local economies, education, and cultural identity. As we celebrate this anniversary, we must recognize the importance of supporting local arts organizations that strive to make a difference in the community.
As we look forward to this exciting event, it prompts us to consider a larger question: How can we continue to cultivate spaces that encourage artistic expression and foster community connections? The NCCAkron’s initiative is not just about celebrating the past; it is an invitation to envision the future of dance and the arts as a whole. In a world where mental health and well-being are increasingly recognized as essential parts of our lives, activities that promote physical movement and self-expression, like dance, hold immense potential for healing and empowerment.
In conclusion, we should embrace the opportunity presented by the “Dance Party Through the Decades” to reflect on the role of dance in our lives. It is a call to participate, to celebrate individuality, and to recognize the power of community. As we move forward, let’s continue to support and engage with the arts, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to dance, express, and celebrate who they are.
As part of its 10th Anniversary celebration, the National Center for Choreography–Akron (NCCAkron) announces a “Dance Party Through the Decades”. Celebrate NCCAkron’s first decade with this public event celebrating dance, music, and community Saturday, June 20, from 8–11pm, The Bank at East End in Akron, Ohio.
“Dance Party” Co-Chairs include NCCAkron Artist Alumni from across the country: Dianne McIntyre (Cleveland, OH), BRKFST Dance (Saint Paul, MN), John Heginbotham (New York, NY), Rosie Herrera (Miami, FL), Raja Feather Kelly (Brooklyn, NY), David Shimotakahara (Cleveland, OH), Pioneer Winter (Miami, FL), Raphael Xavier (Philadelphia, PA), and NCCAkron Founding Executive/Artistic Director Christy Bolingbroke (Akron, OH).
This event features dance music from the past 50 years spun by all-vinyl DJ Forrest Getemgump, Country/Hip Hop line dancing instruction led by Ronni of Vibe & Sweat, emcee Will Blake, an open bar, light bites, a disco ball photo booth, and plenty of time on the dance floor. The dress code is fun and festive, inspired by a favorite decade of your choice.
NCCAkron Executive/Artistic Director Christy Bolingbroke shares, “This promises to be an epic dance party! As we highlight NCCAkron’s first ten years, this party is about bringing all of our various communities together on the dance floor in support of NCCAkron’s next decade of work. Moving together can be the best way to celebrate. Everyone is welcome to join us in the movement to amplify dance and the creative process as essential parts of culture in this country.”
In conjunction with the anniversary celebration, NCCAkron will host its Creative Administrative Research National Summit Convening from June 20–22, 2026. This three-day national think tank will bring together more than 80 dance artists and leaders from across the United States in Akron. Summit participants will also join the “Dance Party Through the Decades” festivities
Also happening on June 20, Dominic Moore-Dunson’s The Remember Balloons – a collaboration with the Akron Symphony Orchestra with original score by Theron Brown – will take place at 6:30pm at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall. NCCAkron encourages dance lovers to witness The Remember Balloons and make some memories of their own with the TRBcast at NCCAkron’s 10th Anniversary “Dance Party Through the Decades” later that evening.
“Dance Party Through the Decades” will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 8–11pm at The Bank at East End (1201 E Market St, Akron, OH 44305). This adults-only (21+) event invites guests to dance their way through the decades in support of NCCAkron. Tickets are on sale now, with General Dance Party tickets priced at an Early Bird rate of $75 until May 15, then $100 thereafter. Premium tickets are $150, and limited Premium Tables for eight guests are available for $1,000. All proceeds benefit NCCAkron.
For tickets and more information, visit https://www.nccakron.org/danceparty
The post NCCAkron Celebrates 10th Anniversary with “Dance Party Through the Decades” appeared first on Dance Informa Magazine.
Read on the original site
Open the publisher's page for the full experience
Related Articles
- NCCAkron Launches 18-Month 10th Anniversary CelebrationThe National Center for Choreography–Akron (NCCAkron) celebrates 10 years as a national hub for dance research and development. This milestone anniversary kicked off in December 2025, launching an 18-month celebration filled with public events, research and development residencies, and national convenings in Akron, OH; Houston, TX; Memphis, TN; Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN; and Boston, MA. Established […] The post NCCAkron Launches 18-Month 10th Anniversary Celebration appeared first on Dance Informa Magazine.
- NCCAkron Continues ‘Making Moves’ National TourAs part of its 10th anniversary programming, the National Center for Choreography–Akron (NCCAkron) continues its Making Moves national tour, a series of free public events designed to spark dialogue and reimagine labor among artists and arts workers. The local and national case studies explore themes of arts ecosystem building, adaptive thinking, and applying creative practices to […] The post NCCAkron Continues ‘Making Moves’ National Tour appeared first on Dance Informa Magazine.