RAISON D’ETRE
Xclaim is a Contemporary Jazz Dance Ensemble that focuses on using professional level dance performance as a vehicle of expression, bringing art and vitality to the forefront of popular culture through HOT CHOREOGRAPHY and REAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH. Xclaim is a faith-based
initiative aimed at sharing our artistic resources, and physical capabilities with those in need. We provide artistic alternatives for young people, making excellence in the arts accessible to today's emerging culture.
HISTORY
The motivation behind the creation of Xclaim is the lifelong dream of Mariah Layne French "to change the world using the art of dance as the primary tool." This is no small dream, nor is it a trite statement. Xclaim has been carefully organized through prayerful planning and advanced education over a period of nearly 10 years. Xclaim was chartered in the fall of 2007 and began rehearsals shortly thereafter. With the groundwork laid and the diverse and specialized team assembled, Xclaim emerged with a 2008 Debut. The Columbus Dispatch called Xclaim’s work "Big ... bold ... infectiously upbeat ... spirited ... strong choreography".
Since our opening season Xclaim has performed over 20 original works in many diverse venues including Xclaim’s own productions Xtra! (2008) and Hands and Feet (2009). The company has also participated in the Columbus Dances series, 60x60 produced by New York based Vox Novus, Wild Goose Creative’s Third Thursdays, as well as large scale community outreach with Northland Jubilee and Mayor Coleman’s initiative Neighborhood Pride. Xclaim is making a difference in the lives of an increasing number of people, through the creation and performance of meaningful innovative dance, and real community outreach and interaction. This outreach and interaction engages audiences and participants of all ages, especially at-risk young people, exposing them to professional art and allowing them to form relationships with positive role models.
HOT CHOREOGRAPHY
Under the artistic direction of Mariah Layne French Xclaim produces eclectic, captivating, Jazz Dance that fuses ethnic, lyrical, classical, hip-hop, contemporary, and musical theater styles to create innovative works that are accessible to and suitable for audiences of all ages. Mariah’s choreographic style emphasizes musicality and rhythm while exploring topics at the core of human existence, tapping a wide range of emotion. Her work is a culmination of diverse experiences within the world of dance and her own life. Mariah aspires to create and facilitate the creation of dance movement that moves people far beyond their seats.
REAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Outreach is a fundamental element in Xclaim’s purpose. Our dancers are passionate about sharing their artistic resources and physical capabilities with those in need through compassion driven service projects, artistic educational workshops, and compelling insightful choreography. We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to experience quality professional art and a life full of vitality. We are committed to being a group of artists that gives back to communities in tangible life-sustaining ways.
Xclaim aspires to impact emerging generations by facilitating mentorship and ongoing training in the arts, to create alternatives for at-risk young people, empowering families, and strengthening society. Xclaim engages in several types of community outreach, with a vision to expand our community impact beyond our current capability.
Existing Types of Outreach:
Community Arts Outreach Events
are designed to introduce young people to fine art and professional artists, engaging youth in dance and and arts workshops. Our goal is to generate interest in the arts among young people whose access has been limited, and through the arts enrich their quality of life. Xclaim provides positive role models and quality art education. We aim to empower students to realize their potential and accomplish their dreams. Currently Xclaim has ongoing mentoring relationships with Mayor Coleman's Neighborhood Pride Talent Search Students, performs in the annual "Northland Jubilee", and participates in the Charisma Centre for the Arts Scholarship Placement Program.
Partnership Outreach:
Xclaim Partners with individuals, community initiatives, and other non-profit organizations to offer services and physical resources for people in need. Examples of this type of outreach have included grocery and meal provisions to hungry families, back-to-school resources, safety programs, and free holiday productions. We have infused this outreach with the arts through live performance, free dance and arts workshop, and complimentary tickets to our main stage productions. If you are interested in partnering with Xclaim please contact us.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Our Board of Directors, chosen for their wisdom and diversity, oversees all of Xclaim's major production decisions and finances, as well as serving as champions for our cause, fostering growth and development.
Officers and Members:
CEO- Mariah Layne French
Vice President/ Treasurer- Philip French
Secretary- Tani Kushner
Nicholas Dekker
Yvonne Peters
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