Non-Profit Dance Program Combats California`s Lack of Funding for the Arts
Released on: April 21, 2008, 7:29 pm
Press Release Author: Traci Latoz
Industry: Non Profit
Press Release Summary: Pure Movement Dance Program provides dance lessons to L.A. County kids.
Press Release Body: Hollywood, CA- In the land of 100-million dollar films and celebrities dripping in excess, it may surprise many to learn that California ranks at the bottom of the list when it comes to funding for the arts. According to a 2006 study commissioned by the James Irvine Foundation, the state of California, one of the country's largest economies, ranked 50th among all states for its per capita funding of the state arts council.
Pure Movement Dance Program, a non-profit organization, is bridging the gap in California arts funding by providing free dance lessons to Los Angeles County children who cannot afford them. The 501(c)3 organization was founded by 20-year dance and choreography guru, 'Chopper', who is best known for his roles in movies such as "Stomp the Yard" and "You Got Served" and touring with top music acts such as Omarion and Ginuine.
With the philosophy that the study of the arts plays a key role in developing self-confidence, self-esteem, discipline and creativity awareness, 'Chopper' said the goal of Pure Movement Dance Program is to empower kids through the arts. "Art programs in public schools are simply vanishing. When that happens, kids lose out on more than dancing and painting. It affects who they are as people because it limits their options," he said.
Inspired by his own success in the dance industry, Chopper grew up in a small Michigan town where sports were king. "Many kids I knew grew up thinking that was the only way to really make it big-by playing professional basketball or football. I am living proof that there are other ways to be successful. I'm truly grateful that I grew up with access to dance instruction and want to pass that gift on to others," he said.
Pure Movement Dance Program is a 501(c) 3 organization which relies on the financial support of individuals, corporations and foundations to continue its mission of empowering youth through dance. For more information about Pure Movement Dance Program, please visit www.ographydance.com.
Chopper Platt is a professional choreographer and dancer who has toured with recognized artists including Omarion, Ginuine, Missy Elliot, Ludacris and Ashanti. In addition, Chopper has appeared in numerous television productions including the Ellen DeGeneres Show, the Tyra Banks Show, Dick Clark's New Years Rockin' Eve and the Daytime Emmy Awards. Feature film appearances include "Stomp the Yard" and "You Got Served".
For more information about Chopper or Ography Dance Studio, please visit www.ographydance.com or call 323-957-1515.
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Web Site: http://www.ographydance.com
Contact Details: Chopper Platt, Ography Dance Studio 6767 Sunset Boulevard Hollywood, CA 90028 323-957-1515