I had never imagined the inspiration for a new post would come from the shocking and unexpected news of a dance colleague’s sudden death.  I learned this afternoon that James Buchanan, the Executive Director of the Santa Barbara Dance Alliance, died suddenly of a heart attack last week, at the tender age of 33.

I got to spend some time with James last spring just before the DANCEworks season, when we met to determine how DANCEworks and the SBDA could interface.  I did not know James well, but I was immediately impressed by his can-do spirit, his enthusiasm, humor and intelligence and his sincere desire to be helpful.  He was bubbling over with suggestions and ideas for SBDA to be of service to us, all of which helped DANCEworks generate additional community support for Larry Keigwin’s residency and performances.  I knew I had a generous partner by my side.  I was moved by his commitment, his selflessness and his passion for dance.   I looked forward to working with James for years to come.  It is not to be.

James served in his position for only one year, but during that time, he grabbed the reins of the SBDA and through his leadership provided  inspiration and a new sense of possibility.  The current state of the economy and the ongoing struggle to raise dollars can be wearing for everyone in the non-profit world.  James provided a refreshing antidote to negativity. He was cut from a different cloth,  a “yes we can” man.

Dance, by its very nature, is the most ephemeral of art forms. There is always poignancy that accompanies a brilliant performance, because you understand its time is fleeting. James Buchanan performed brilliantly during his year at the helm of the Santa Barbara Dance Alliance. His sudden death is a huge loss for dance as well as for the Santa Barbara community.  Thank you James, for all you did and gave to us in the brief time you were with us.  I will always remain grateful for your time here and the opportunity I had to work with you.

On Wednesday, October 13th, there will be a noontime Memorial Service for James at the Lobero Theatre.  The SBDA is establishing a dance scholarship fund in James’ memory.  Let’s all get behind it and contribute generously so that young dancers may be nutured in his memory.

Santa Barbara Dance Alliance is establishing the James Buchanan Memorial Scholarship Fund.
To contribute or for more information, please contact Sheila Caldwell at 805-966-6950 or email sheila@sbdancealliance.org