Samantha Glenn | LUTV
May 5, 2016; Noon 

In the St. Louis area and beyond, the arts connect the community in a powerful way. Through song, dance, acting, and other artistic expression, people around St. Louis are encouraging a message of unity.

Casa Loma Ballroom has been an epicenter of song and dance for over 85 years. The ballroom provides a casual atmosphere to learn news skills and make new friends. People from all ages come out to the historic sight to dance and listen to live music. Swing dance has made a revival, and as a result bands like Miss Jubilee and the Humdingers  come out to play on a regular basis. Casa Loma will continue to bring the community together for years to come.

While Casa Loma brings in people from all over the country, local talent shows, like the Lights of St. Charles Talent Show, cater to the local audience. The show is held at Matthias’ Lot Church. There is a wide variety of talents that come out to perform for a supportive audience every year. From acoustic guitar players, to acrobatic gymnasts, the talent show never ceases to impress. There are also concessions and raffle baskets to accompany the talent. All proceeds go to support the non-profit organization “We Love St. Charles.”

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[su_divider top=”no” size=”4″ margin=”45″]Emily Miller[/su_divider]

Artistic events would not be possible without community leaders. Dancer David Alexander is a St. Louis native who combines his passion for dance and community restoration to share a message of positive social change. Alexander graduated from the high school Westminster Christian Academy, but his ties have not been broken. He performs at the schools annual black history moth celebration, “The Night of the Arts.” With his tap shoes and and a message, Alexander inspires all ages. The night is full of student performances, “soul food,” and a living museum.

Alexander is also involved with the organization BreakDown STL. The organization empowers teens to make positive choices and avoid negative social pressure. BreakDown targets schools in a specific area. A North County and St. Louis team has recently been created to tailor the social message more specifically. The performers bring a message of hope through various artistic expression such as spoken word and short sketches.

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[su_divider top=”no” size=”4″ margin=”45″]Emily Miller[/su_divider]

Finally, an adult-only dance studio in Ballwin is proving that you’re never to old to do what you’re passionate about. Christine LeBlain DeHart founded the studio, Dancing Thru Life, with adult teaching in mind. Her adapted teaching style and special facilities give older women a unique importunity. The woman have found a community within the studio, and are unified over a common interest.

[su_divider top=”no” size=”4″ margin=”45″]Emily Miller[/su_divider]

[su_divider top=”no” size=”4″ margin=”45″]Emily Miller[/su_divider]