August 24, 2006

For more information, contact: Southwest at (901) 333-4024 or 4116

GREATER MEMPHIS ARTS COUNCIL FUNDS DANCE WORKS FOR 20TH YEAR
Release written by Pat O’Brien

Once again, Dance Works, Inc., based at Southwest’s Union Avenue Campus, has received funding from the Greater Memphis Arts Council to provide scholarships for students who otherwise could not afford the classes. “We were ranked in the top category for funding again this year. It means about two-thirds of our students will receive subsidies,” said Karen Zissoff, executive director of the ballet school. She said scholarships are awarded according to need, using the free-lunch programs in Memphis City Schools as the guide for eligibility.

Also once again, Dance Works is receiving support from the Tennessee Arts Commission for the 2006-07 school year to bring in well-known guest instructors throughout the season. Among them will be Wayne Smith, who has a Master in Dance (Modern) from Ohio State University, now teaching at Spelman College in Atlanta; Dr. Mel Tomlinson, former professional dancer with NYC Ballet, Alvin Ailey, and Dance Theater of Harlem; and Sharona Rubinstein, who has a Master in Dance from UCLA, freelance teacher with the Erik Hawkins Style of Modern Dance.

“I am excited about the way the new season is shaping up,” said Zissoff. “This will be a beautifully well rounded program for these students to experience. We will be conducting Master Classes throughout the visits of the guest instructors in October, January and April to enhance their experience.”

Registration is under way for the Fall semester, and classes will begin September 5 for students 4 to 22 years of age. For information and appointment to register, call (901) 333-5174.