Have you met Joan Dizon? This sweet, pint-sized powerhouse is womanning the ship of Dance Initiative. We get a chance to hear about how this adventure has been going for her, and what aspects of her work she finds most meaningful. Also, doesn’t everyone want to know what music dancers listen to? She covers that too.

You've been the Director of Dance Initiative for a little while now, how's it been going? Can you share a little bit about yourself and how you came to be in this role.

I have been Director for 1.5 years, and the non profit industry was new to me. I would be lying if I said that I didn't have moments of ugly crying, late nights, and times that I wanted to give up. But every challenge has proved to be beyond fulfilling on a soul-deep level!

I'm a second generation Filipino American. I didn't start dancing until I was 18, which is considered "late" in the dance industry. I have professionally danced for the NBA, NFL, and Nike. I have also choreographed for fitness studios, teams and schools.

I started teaching for Dance Initiative for our In-School programs in 2023 and I quickly saw how much dance resonated with students here — especially those who might not otherwise have access to it. So, stepping into the ED role felt like a natural extension of what I was already passionate about: creating spaces where everyone can experience the joy, healing, and empowerment that dance brings.

What programs have you brought to Dance Initiative that you're particularly proud of? Or any new exciting ones coming up that we need to watch out for?

I am particularly proud of our expansion and growth of our In-School Partnership Program which has led to our on-going after school classes which gives students daily opportunities to explore awareness, build confidence, express themselves creatively and receive the neurological and psychological benefits of dance.

We also launched an outreach partnership with the Navajo Nation, bringing dance workshops to kids at the Navajo Nation Fair, which was such a meaningful way to honor culture and community.

We have also increased our network collaborators and thrilled to continue to dance alongside Carbondale Arts, The Art Base, Glenwood Recreation Center, Bonedale Flashmob, Mezcla Socials Dance, Aspen Polynesia, Legacy Dance Studio, Cumbre Salsa Flow, Dance Aspen, Aspen Dance Connection, Roaring Fork Divas, Mt Cirque, and TACAW just to name a few.

I'm really enthused for our performance crew 970 BeatKicks which is composed of kids and youth hip hop and breakdancers. This past year they have performed at Cirque d'Sopris and Mountain Fair, and we hope to have more performances at community events.

I am also very delighted to announce that Dance Initiative will be the fiscal sponsor of EMME Dance - EMME is a contemporary modern dance company founded by local movement artists. EMME Dance will be offering modern dance classes and performances.

Another exciting announcement is that we acquired a new studio space at Third Street Center and we are in the process of scheduling a variety of more classes for kids and adults!

Finally, watch out for our annual fundraiser "Thriller" October 27.

What strategies would you use to cultivate new audiences and supporters for the organization’s programming, especially within an already arts-rich community?

I don’t really think of it as a "strategy"— more like a mission and passion to open doors and involve kids and youth to experience the benefits of dance. Dance supports physical health, coordination, and brain development, while also boosting confidence, focus, and social-emotional skills. By showing up in schools, offering classes for youth and local events, we’re not just teaching dance — we’re inspiring young people and helping shape a stronger, more connected community.

How would you ensure that new programming promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion—both on stage and behind the scenes?

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to everything we do. Most of our staff and instructors come from diverse backgrounds, our classes welcome students of all identities, and our performances — especially during our fundraisers — showcase a variety of styles and cultural traditions. For example we have highlighted - Native American cultural dancers, Pacific Islander cultural dancers, LGBTQ+ performers, Latin dance performers, African cultural dance, youth, adults, and special needs performers. This ensures that both onstage and behind the scenes, our programming reflects and celebrates the communities we serve.

What is your favorite type of dance? Who are some of your favorite artists to dance to? Perhaps a playlist you could share?

My favorite type of dance to witness and watch is really any type of cultural dancing. I did Filipino cultural dancing in college and I love seeing dancers in harmony with their history and ancestors. Of course, I love dancing hip hop and I also have an affinity for musical theatre jazz, and when I'm sure 100% no one is watching - I'm twerking in the kitchen while cooking dinner.

Favorite artists - Paula Abdul - When I was a little girl my parents couldn't afford dance classes for me, and I remember being in my small room playing Paula Abdul songs and trying to dance like her. I would get so caught up in the moment and feelings of the music that I’d often bump into the walls and furniture in my room. My mom would come into my room because she heard noises and bangs and thuds. She would be like, "What are you doing?" And I was like, "I'm just trying to dance like Paula Abdul.. duh!!!"

And my favorite "go-to" artist is Missy Elliot. I apologize, I don't feel like I need to elaborate on that.

Where can folks find more information on upcoming classes and performances?

More information can be found on our website danceinitiative.org
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Resonance of Dance

High Tide on Main Street