Danceworks MKE

For Over 30 Years, Danceworks MKE has been a staple in Milwaukee’s arts and culture scene. This year, Julieane Cook took over as executive director of the dance performance and education organization. “I am thrilled to be joining Danceworks at this moment in our history because of the strong foundation we have to continue bringing joy, health and creativity to the community,” Cook says. “Our education programs, studio classes and collaborative performances are making an incredible impact in Milwaukee.”

Danceworks’ professional performance company, Danceworks Performance MKE, is led by artistic director Christal Wagner. The company performs a full season every year and often collaborates with local artists. The organization also offers 70 weekly classes in its Downtown studio and satellite location at the Jewish Community Center, with options for people of all ages and abilities. Outside of its studio, it provides programs to schools across the Milwaukee area, reaching over 80 in the past year. Its signature education program, Mad Hot Rhythm, is designed for students in fourth through sixth grades, who learn tap, samba, African/hip-hop fusion and more dance styles. Since 2006, around 35,000 students have been through the program.

Danceworks Generations focuses on younger students, pairing second- and third-grade students with seniors in living centers. And for even younger students in K5 and first grade, Danceworks offers an Emoji Yogi program, teaching them how to use yoga, breathing exercises and storytelling to improve emotional regulation. These programs, overseen by Jessica Fastabend, are largely supported by donations, which keep the cost low and accessible for students. “Our arts community at large needs us,” says Cook, “and I am ready to jump into the work advocating for arts funding and accessibility so that every person in Milwaukee has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of dance.”

Danceworks and the Milwaukee dance community wouldn’t be what they are today without the work of one of Danceworks’ founding members, Amy Brinkman-Sustache. We are deeply saddened by her recent passing. Amy contributed immensely to Danceworks for over 30 years in various roles. “We are mourning the loss of a remarkable visionary leader, teacher, artist and friend,” Cook says. “Amy enriched countless lives through her steadfast commitment to Danceworks and her deep compassion for others. Amy’s legacy will live on through the foundation she built for us, as we carry forward the mission of Danceworks.”