Local Theatre Group Finds New Home

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WDX founders Tiffany C. Wentzell and Julia Galli say farewell to their old rehearsal space. Photo courtesy of John Chan.

Local theatre group Windsor Dance eXperience had a shock when they abruptly lost their rehearsal space in June.

The group had to put their annual summer show on hiatus as they started a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe and began their search for a new studio. Windsor Dance eXperience (also known as WDX) is a non-profit community theatre group that creates one-of-a-kind shows featuring dancers from age six and up. They require a large space to rehearse, build sets, and store props and costumes.

“We have come across some challenges in our 12 years but this was by far the most nerve wracking,” said Artistic Director Tiffany C. Wentzell.

Photo courtesy of John Chan.

The group was able to raise $8000 with their GoFundMe Campaign, exceeding their initial goal of $5000.

“We don’t have box office blowouts at our productions so it was amazing to see the people coming out of the woodwork to donate. It was beautiful to see the people who don’t just believe in our work but what we do with our youth,” said Wentzell.

Photo courtesy of John Chan.

After searching the city, they finally found a space suitable for the group and their future goals – which include collaborations with other companies and extra projects such as dance expos, workshops, and festivals.

The new WDX studio is located at 866 Walker Road and is currently in the process of renovations. They hope to have most of the work done for their grand re-opening weekend on September 12 and 13. A new event is planned for the weekend titled Evolution: The Windsor Dance Expo.

Photo courtesy of John Chan.

The first day of the Expo is dedicated to younger dancers and their parents, where they can attend workshops and learn more about the group and its upcoming holiday show. Sunday is for older dancers (12-adult). Anyone is welcome to attend, whether you are an experienced dancer or have never danced before.

The cost for a half day at the Expo is $20 and a full day is $30, with lunch and refreshments provided. Some of the guest instructors include Anh Nguyen of HNM Dance Company, B-girl Ma Ma of Hardcore Detroit, and Romano Fornicuccia of the Yoga Loft.

“We wanted to bring local dancers/instructors who have followed their passion together to create a diverse day of dance. These are dancers in our area and Detroit who have accomplished a lot – proof that our local youth can do it too!” said Wentzell.

Photo courtesy of John Chan.

WDX will be holding auditions for their Christmas production Land of the Beats (an urban retelling of The Nutcracker) on Saturday, September 19 at 866 Walker Road. Experience is not necessary – just a passion to dance and perform. All styles of dance are required for this production including hip hop, b-boy/girl, pointe, contemporary, ballroom, acro, and jazz. Junior auditions (ages 6-11) are from 9am – 11am and intermediate/senior auditions (ages 12-35) are from 11am-2pm. For more information you can visit their webpage, Facebook page, or call 519-253-2466.