“DANCEworks has been one of the most (if not the most) fruitful creative opportunities I have ever spent.”
— Doug Elkins, 2011 Resident Choreographer.

“Keigwin + Company’s four weeks at DANCEWORKS 2010 provided us with the invaluable experience of spending an extended period of time devoted to the creation of new work.  Composing on the historic Lobero Stage was truly a gift.”
— Larry Keigwin, 2010 Resident Choreographer, Keigwin + Company

“DANCEworks 2009 was a stupendous, rich, intense journey that I will always cherish. It was one of the most exciting experiences that my group has ever had… It’s such a rare opportunity to work in a theater like this for four weeks. It is a dream destination for an artist that supports and nurtures growth, aliveness and pure creativity.”
— Aszure Barton, 2009 Resident Choreographer

“We wanted to do something different. Something special and unique, with the  intimacy to match the intimacy of our theatre. The format of DANCEworks succeeds at that.”
– David Asbell, Lobero Theatre Executive Director

“I am honored to be present among the performing arts renaissance Santa Barbara is currently experiencing and can’t thank Ms. Vapnek enough for thoughtfully drawing in global talent while still maintaining the virtues of terroir.” *
— Ninette Paloma, director, La Petite Chouette Aerial Dance Studio

“The dancers are endlessly inspiring… it’s a joy to see it all unfold. What a beautiful project so full of heart.”
— Michelle Jank, costume designer

“Danceworks is truly a bright spot on the national dance scene.”
— Rachel Howard, Dance Critic and author

“Danceworks supports creative innovation by offering invaluable opportunities for artists to focus on their work, strengthen their process and develop their gifts. The residency format of the program is a boon for choreographers, who generally face daunting challenges in finding space, time and funding needed to actualize their artistic vision. These residencies have the potential to alter the course of an artist’s career. The program also promotes deeper understanding of the art form among dance students and community members by inviting them to observe rehearsal and/or participate in classes offered by the visiting artists.”
— Christopher Pilafian, UCSB Dance Faculty

“The opportunity to have uninterrupted time and space to make new work was a piece of SUMMERDANCE that had lasting impact on the lives and careers of dancers. This was the piece of the festival that seemed most important to continue.”
— Dianne Vapnek, Founder and Executive Director, SUMMERDANCE Santa Barbara, Artistic Director DANCEworks