Submitted by BJ Coleman.

I arrived 20 minutes early, hoping to get a good seat. The crowd was already streaming in. Tap dancers and ballerinas were practicing on the stage to get a feel for the space. Music was playing, and as I squinted in the bright sunlight, my first thought was, “Where do they get the energy?” Later, when Dance Theatre Northwest’s “Summer Showcase” began, I was “blown away!” Their show opened with a challenging theater-style workshop piece that required both speed and musicality to a series of intense drum beats. Bold and risky, but also fun and entertaining, the energy was even more impressive. The audience was instantly transformed. They seemed to identify with the dancers’ pure joy at the swing-like tumult choreographed by guest artist Richard Philion as part of a series of theater dance workshops. And while the moves weren’t perfect, the enthusiasm was boundless.

Fluent in the language of dance, Philion later performed an emotionally charged piece created by Melanie Kirk-Stauffer, the group’s artistic director. The complex movements were supple and light, flowing with a consummate grace and power that only years of experience and training can bring to the stage. The dance, titled “Elements of Change,” showcased Philion’s elegance and control as he shifted his weight through a series of turns, leaps, and statuesque poses. The theme and variation style of the choreography combined with unexpected acoustic and synthetic music was enchanting.

Another thoughtful, emotional piece was remembered for the outstanding stage presence of the performers in a duet called “Pure Imagination,” choreographed by Katherine Neuman. Sophie Herrera and Joanna Mesler captivated the audience with their dramatic expression in simple yellow dresses and playful movements.

From young amateurs and adults to seasoned professionals, the expressions and stylized movements were performed with inspiring elegance and precision. Tap dancing, lively jazz and classical ballet pieces were presented in glittering costumes. The hour flew by. Humming and whistling inside, I looked around and noticed that the room was still brightly lit and standing room only. Like many others, I wanted more.

“Summer Showcase” was the name of the concert that took place on August 10. Presented by Dance Theatre Northwest, the performance was free and open to the public in the atrium of the University Place City Hall Library. While many supporters and sponsors were named, the city’s corporate names University Place and University Place Refuse stood out, saying that as a city they were proud to be part of this community offering.

The group’s artistic director, Melanie Kirk-Stauffer, who provided a running narrative throughout the show, also designed most of the choreography. Kirk-Stauffer seems to have a talent for combining many energies into one. The diversity was evident not only in the participants, but in the entire production. One of the dancers I spoke to said that many of the performers were “grateful to have DTNW as a safe place to explore their talents.” And further, that Kirk-Stauffer’s way of creating a “neutral space for others gives them the strength to move beyond their own fears and doubts. They feel respect. They feel understood. They feel valued.”

For more information about Dance Theatre Northwest, visit www.DTNW.org. The 501-c-3 nonprofit organization has received several awards from the City of University Place for its outstanding performance. As part of the City’s founder’s vision, DTNW has become a partner with the City and was recognized in an official PROCLAMATION by the City Council and Mayor in December 2017 for over 30 years of community service to the community and its artistic excellence.