Catch danceETHOS on First Fridays at SteelStacks

Visitors meandering the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks for a movie or a show on First Fridays may come across a little oasis of live dance in the lobby. These emissaries from the world of contemporary dance are members of danceETHOS Performance Company, bringing captivating glimpses into their choreography to an often happenstance audience, all in the name of connection.

Now based in the Lehigh Valley, danceETHOS was founded in Philadelphia in 2009 by Alexandra Pobiedzinski, a major player in the local dance community who's also co-founder and executive director of the Lehigh Valley Dance Exchange. “I've made it my personal mission the past 10 years to cultivate the Lehigh Valley's dance scene,” Pobiedzinski says, “not only through my own artistic contributions, but also by unifying the Valley's already thriving artistic community that was rumbling quietly beneath the surface.” Professional dance artists, amazing arts venues and excellent university programs are here—Pobiedzinski connects the dots.

While all forms of dance have undeniable power, opportunities to experience it aren't always obvious or sought out by the uninitiated. That's why placing performances in the Creative Commons at ArtsQuest is such a dynamic idea. “It's so important to me to provide dance in unexpected places,” Pobiedzinski says, “so people who may feel daunted by the thought of entering into a dance performance can still be touched by the magic of the art form.”

Dance explores the human experience through the power of movement, using shapes, grace, athleticism and physical connection. We all bring our own biases and histories to any experience, and Pobiedzinski thrives on that synergy. “For some, it's a kinesthetic experience, and for others it's a deeply profound emotional and mental journey through the movement and message that they witness.”

Check online for future showcases and concerts from danceETHOS.