“RDA has been a great source of education, inspiration and camaraderie - valuable to our dancers and staff alike. Through RDA/SW we have made lifelong friends and provided so many opportunities to SO many dancers. These are our peeps!”

MOLLY BUCHMANN, Artistic Director of Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre

“Being a part of RDA is our best tool for networking. Our connections over the years have not only created life-long friendships, but also enabled us to host some of America's finest teachers and choreographers. The performance experience during festival is priceless for my dancers and has also prompted many opportunities to further careers through scholarships to summer programs and colleges/universities.”

MISSY CRAIN, Artistic Director of Louisiana Delta Ballet

“To be part of RDA means to be a part of an incredible, and unique dance community. Although the dance companies are split throughout the region, we still come together to enjoy and learn from each other as a group. I love that I get the opportunity to experience the individuality of others yet still feel so intertwined as a team when dancing. I get to be a part of a family in which everyone accepts me and my attributes creating a coefficient and bonding environment.”

EMMA L., Dancer with Midland Festival Ballet

“Being a part of RDA means getting the chance to further your dance education in so many possible ways whether it is through RDA festivals or through the many opportunities RDA presents via summer intensives or scholarships. Through RDA I've had the chance to experience things I never thought I could and meet some truly amazing people. Without RDA, I would never be the dancer I am today. In summary, being a part of RDA means being a part of an immersive experience that will change your life forever.”

GABRIELLE M., Dancer with BalletForte

“Being part of RDA allows me the opportunity to engage in fellowship with other dancers, choreographers, and directors. I have made so many new friends and learned so many new things by attending RDA Regional Festivals, the RDA National Festival, and the RDA National Choreography Intensive as a dancer and as an emerging choreographer!”

ALEXIS S., Dancer with Corpus Christi Ballet

“I love the variety of classes we take each day and being able to perform our company pieces in the evening. It’s a great opportunity to interact with and support other companies, as well as grow closer to your own.”

STELLA M., Dancer with Victoria Ballet Theatre

“Being a part of RDA to me means being a part of something bigger than even my dance studio; it means joining together with so many other companies, teachers, and peers to create and learn together for the collective betterment of us all.”

LOURDES B., Dancer with Juxtapose Arts Collective

“It means that I get opportunities that would be otherwise very challenging to get. I gain corrections and am able to meet people who are successful and who have the same passions for dance that I do.”

HANNAH B., Dancer with Western Arkansas Ballet

“RDA feels like a reunion and celebration of our common interests in such a difficult time. It is an inspiring experience to see so many around you have passion and love for dance.”

AVA W., Dancer with Arkansas Festival Ballet

“Being a part of RDA means contributing my skills to the arts and keeping the magic of dance alive. To me, RDA is a chance to explore different dance forms and discover how my body moves to different beats. It is an opportunity to learn more about myself and the creative art of dance.”

KATIE T., Dancer with Chamberlain Ballet