Debbie Allen Dance Academy Celebrates 25 Years of Impact

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Community gathering at the 25th Anniversary celebration of Debbie Allen Dance Academy.

News Summary

The Debbie Allen Dance Academy in Culver City is marking its 25th anniversary with community events and theatrical productions. Founded as a haven for underserved dancers, the academy now offers numerous programs and hosts free events, including a block party and a new production directed by Debbie Allen. Celebrating arts and community, DADA remains committed to its mission of cultural representation and nurturing new talent.

Culver City, California – The Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a series of community events and theatrical productions highlighting its impact on local communities. Opened in 2000 in a refurbished Marie Callender’s restaurant, DADA began as a sanctuary for underserved Black and Latino dancers aspiring to learn under Debbie Allen, a notable figure in the performing arts known for her role in the 1980 musical “Fame.”

Now situated in a state-of-the-art, 25,000-square-foot arts facility at the Rhimes Performing Arts Center in Mid City, which is named after acclaimed producer Shonda Rhimes, the academy has expanded its offerings. Recent initiatives include an accredited middle school, a summer intensive program, a tap festival, and the popular annual holiday performance known as the “Hot Chocolate Nutcracker.”

As part of the 25th-anniversary celebrations, Debbie Allen is hosting her third free community block party on June 8 along Washington Boulevard. This event promises various activities including dance classes led by renowned choreographers and a breakdancing competition with Silverback Bboy Events. Allen has emphasized the importance of community connection and joy experienced during these gatherings. Additionally, on June 22, Allen will present “Dancing in the Light: Healing with the Arts,” a bimonthly event offering free dance lessons for individuals affected by wildfires, featuring expert choreographers in salsa, African dance, and hip-hop.

Community Engagement and Artistic Endeavors

Beyond community events, Debbie Allen is deeply engaged in the theatrical arts. She is currently directing a new production of Will Power’s play “Fetch Clay, Make Man,” which explores the friendship between Muhammad Ali and Hollywood icon Stepin Fetchit. This production is notably the first theatrical project of LeBron James’ SpringHill Company and aims to address themes of race, power, and identity against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. The play will run from June 18 to July 16 at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City, with an opening night scheduled for June 25. Tickets for the production are currently available for purchase.

Debbie Allen’s Personal Life

Outside her professional commitments, Debbie Allen prioritizes family time on Sundays, which typically involves activities with her four grandchildren aged 6, 4, and 2, including a 6-month-old. These family-oriented Sundays often consist of breakfast outings, free dance classes, movie trips, and family dinners at local restaurants. Allen also cherishes moments shared with her 101-year-old mother, affectionately known as MaTurk, during which they enjoy listening to her favorite music, including Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.”

Debbie Allen, an award-winning director and producer recognized for her work on television series such as “Grey’s Anatomy,” “How to Get Away With Murder,” “A Different World,” and “Everybody Hates Chris,” continues to inspire others through her innovative contributions to both dance and theater. Her efforts in the community and the arts reflect a dedication to both cultural representation and the nurturing of new talent, ensuring that her legacy will impact future generations.