What's Happening?
Christy Bolingbroke, the Founding Executive/Artistic Director of the National Center for Choreography Akron (NCCAkron), marks a decade of leadership at the organization. Bolingbroke's journey to Akron began after a series of roles in dance administration
across the U.S., including positions at the Kennedy Center and the Mark Morris Dance Group. NCCAkron, one of only two such centers in the U.S., was established with a $5 million endowment from the Knight Foundation. Under Bolingbroke's direction, the center has become a hub for dance research and development, offering innovative programming and fostering a collaborative environment for artists. The center's initiatives include the Creative Administrative Research program and the Dancing Labs Model, which aim to support artists in new and flexible ways.
Why It's Important?
NCCAkron's work under Bolingbroke's leadership highlights the importance of adaptive and innovative approaches in the arts, particularly in dance. By focusing on the gaps in the field and fostering a supportive environment for artists, the center addresses the challenges of sustainability and resource scarcity in the arts. This approach not only benefits individual artists but also contributes to the broader cultural landscape by encouraging new forms of artistic expression and collaboration. The center's success demonstrates the potential impact of strategic investment in the arts, particularly in regions outside major cultural hubs.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, NCCAkron plans to continue its innovative programming with upcoming events such as a summit convening for Creative Administrative Research alumni and a Dancing Lab focused on writing and cultural competency. These initiatives aim to further explore the intersections of art, technology, and community engagement. The center's ongoing efforts to adapt to the changing economic landscape and support a diverse range of artists suggest a continued commitment to fostering creativity and resilience in the arts.
