5th Annual Bay Area Praise Dance Festival Runs 6/29-30

Ross Dance Company has announced an inspiring weekend encompassing a dynamic praise dance conference and culminating with the 5th Annual Bay Area Praise Dance Festival titled, A New Breed of Worship. Witness praise dancers move and inspire diverse audiences through all dance genres as they creatively portray the Gospel. Viewers will develop a natural affinity with the messages ministered and leave thirsting for more visual stimulation. The Oakland Post states, "Leaping in faith, twirling in submission, dancers put on a live show of worship, and the spirit was undeniably present." Join Ross and others to experience genuine hearts that truly depict unconditional love when worshiping.

Ross kicks off their season with their annual praise dance conference at Malonga Casquelourd Center, in which highly experienced staff equip dancers with the Word of God, confidence, unique dance vocabulary, and choreography tools in order to strengthen their ministries. Ross offers a full day of seminars and dance classes to over 100 youth and adults that participate. Conference attendees always leave with more knowledge, confidence and increased passion for their craft. The following day, consist of a multidimensional festival at Holy Names University, displaying various churches and groups from all over the Bay area dancing to celebratory songs or sharing a testimonial using didactic movement. Each group receives mentorship from Ross in order to elevate their performance and ministry, which fosters professional development. The festival is a unique medium that cultivates artistic growth for dancers while leaving audience members exhilarated and inspired.

Local Gospel artists will also be highlighted in this year's praise dance festival as they perform live and share with audiences their vibrant vocals. Ross provides this unique opportunity for local artists to share their work and increase their audience demographic. The festival not only promotes the arts in Oakland, but also encourages youth of color in the community to connect with God through a creative outlet and receive support. Ross aims to bring visibility to dance and music ministries that use their gifts as a way to advance the arts and share their faith. This festival truly benefits all those involved and provides a unique and dynamic experience for the dancers, audience, community and local Gospel artists. The Bay Area Praise Dance Conference and Festival is the only one of its kind and Ross is dedicated to planting this festival in communities all over the nation. This season's conferences and festivals are designed to ignite the Gospel through praise dance and will feature some of the largest churches in California with special performances by Ross Dance and many more.