On October 24, 2024, Executive Director Peter Pucci invited his friend Nile Russell, Director of Education at the prestigious world renowned American Dance Festival (ADF) to come to Queen Anne’s County High School. Nile give the local dancers the opportunity to audition for the dance festival that is held each summer at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. The local dancers ranged in age from 14 to 23. Nile taught a wonderful class that included traditional steps that were challenging and fun. He also inspired the students to do free-form improvisational exercises and to spontaneously. create their own personal movement styles they shared with each other.
ADF’s summer program features hands-on training, a variety of classes in different dance forms and styles, and the chance to create and perform new works. Dancers will work closely with choreographers, produce original pieces, and have the opportunity to perform on stage, gaining valuable experience. The festival also offers a platform to connect with fellow dancers and professionals from around the globe, fostering long-lasting relationships and opening doors to future opportunities.
The Carole Cascio Fund is dedicated to supporting dancers passionate about attending the American Dance Festival. CCF makes an annual a donation to ADF that will provide financial assistance to those accepted into the ADF Summer Session.
Five dancers from the audition were accepted into the summer program at ADF two are currently in the process of applying for support.
