The Rhythm of Giving: Help Keep Dance Accessible in DC
As Capitol Movement approaches its landmark 20th anniversary, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment. From November 26 to December 5, we're launching The Rhythm of Giving campaign to secure the future of inclusive dance education in our nation's capital.
For two decades, Capitol Movement has provided world-class dance education to students of all ages, with a special focus on those who might otherwise lack access to such opportunities. Today, CMI serves more than 600 students each year through comprehensive programming that includes after-school and summer programs for District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) students, along with its celebrated dance matinee performances.
What sets Capitol Movement apart is its commitment to excellence—bringing renowned dance artists to work directly with DC's youth, providing not just technical training but mentorship, inspiration, and a pathway to creative expression and personal growth.
Why Your Support Matters Now
The numbers tell a powerful story. During our 20th anniversary Free Day of Dance matinee, we brought 690 DC Public School students to their first-ever theater experience – students who might never have seen a live dance performance otherwise. Student attendees sang along with the performance music, asked questions during the open dialogue session at intermission, and danced together, led by professional company member Brittany, at the end of the show. Watch to learn more here.
Student Quotes:
“And my favorite part of the show was the whole show.” -Lousia, Amidon-Bowen
“The part I liked about the show is all of the techniques [used by] the dancers.” -Layla
“This show was beautiful because of like…the army pants.” -Tyler, referring to the re-imagined piece “Movement of the People” by Luam
“About the show, it was very, very good, and that made me really want to go on stage to dance.” -Levine
The Power of Mentorship
Our unique multigenerational mentorship program creates a chain of inspiration: adult company members mentor apprentice dancers, who in turn become buddies for our youth dancers. This approach has proven transformative, building confidence, fostering leadership, and creating lasting bonds across communities. With over 90% of our leadership, program staff, and dancers representing Women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ communities, we're not just teaching dance; we're modeling inclusion and expanding possibilities for the next generation.
Our Goal
We need to raise $10,000 during The Rhythm of Giving week to continue program scholarships for students, transportation to our Free show April 2026, affordable, accessible rehearsal and performance spaces. This funding will help us:
- Continue providing high-quality dance instruction and performances to 500 underserved youth free of charge
- Ensure our programs remain accessible to all
- Preserve the physical spaces where our community has grown and thrived
Join the Movement and CMI Gives Back!
Every contribution of $20.05 from November 26 through December 5 will receive a free dance class at CM Studio (CMS) on December 21 or January 11. Not only that but your donation brings us closer to securing these vital community goals. Whether you're a longtime supporter or new to our community, your gift helps ensure that diverse, accessible dance education remains alive and moving in DC.
Take action between November 26 and December 5 to be part of this moment in Capitol Movement's story. Together, we can ensure that the next generation of diverse artists has the space to learn, grow, and transform our community through dance.
Join us in keeping the rhythm alive. Every movement matters. Every gift counts.
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Capitol Movement Inc. is committed to fostering inclusion, diversity, equity, and access through dance education and performance in Washington, DC.
