May 23, 2018 - The Merced College Theater will once again be filled with the rhythmic movements of the Pacific Islands, the beauty of ballet, the tempo of tap, the enchantment of belly dance, and the joy of jazz, as local dance companies showcase their talented dancers during the 26th annual Festival of Dance. The 16-day event will run from June 15-30.

The Festival of Dance is sponsored by the Dance Teachers Cooperative, a group of dance instructors in the Merced-Mariposa area that was formed in connection with Merced College Community Services more than 20 years ago.

Proceeds from the Festival of Dance and the spring Dance Kaleidoscope are placed in a perpetual fund. The interest it generates helps provide local scholarships for dance students entering Merced College as well as Merced College dance students who are transferring to a four-year school. Proceeds from the dance activities are also used for theater equipment and improvements. Over the years, the Dance Teachers Cooperative has funded light and sound improvements, a dance floor, and lobby upgrades, among other projects. 

All performances are open to the public with tickets costing $10 for general admission and $8 for ASMC students, seniors, military and children under 12. Tickets are available at mccd.tix.com. Remaining tickets can also be purchased at the theater box office one hour prior to each performance. For additional information, contact Merced College Community Services at (209) 384-6224.

 Performance Schedule

Merced Academy of Dance
Friday & Saturday, June 15th &16th at 7 p.m.

South Pacific Dance Company & Merced Belly Dance Company 
Thursday, June 21st at 7:00 p.m.

The Dancers’ Studio
Friday, June 22nd at 7:00 p.m.

STEPS Dance Studio
Saturday, June 23rd at 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Denisa’s School of Dance
Friday & Saturday, June 29th & 30th at 7:00 p.m.

Mariposa Academy of Performing Arts
Saturday, June 30th at 2:00 p.m.
Source: Merced College