Acclaimed choreographer and actress Debbie Allen is offering healing through movement to Los Angeles wildfire victims with free roller skating and dance classes. Through her Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA), Allen has launched “Dancing in the Light: Healing with the Arts,” a bi-monthly event series providing families affected by recent wildfires with joyful creative outlets. The next session takes place April 27 at the Rhimes Performing Arts Center in partnership with Sunshine Skate Foundation.
The initiative specifically targets communities impacted by devastating blazes like the Eaton Fire in Altadena and the Palisades Fire. Allen has mobilized top dance talent and resources to create safe, supportive spaces where children and families can temporarily escape their challenges through artistic expression and physical activity.
Award-Winning Artist Brings Skating Joy to Fire-Affected Communities
“Dancing In The Light will kick ball change into a day of dancing on skates on Sunday, April 27 at the Rhimes Performing Arts Center,” Allen announced enthusiastically in a press release. “I’m so excited to announce this new edition. Come and bounce with me, Y’ALL!! Free skates and classes provided by Sunshine Skate Foundation. Meet me at the rink!!!”
The series began in late January following wildfires that devastated multiple Los Angeles neighborhoods. Allen’s initiative specifically targets residents from Altadena, Pasadena, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Encino, and surrounding communities. These areas faced significant destruction and displacement from the recent fires.
The events have already traveled to several locations throughout Los Angeles County. Previous sessions were held at the Rhimes Performing Arts Center, Pasadena City College, Glendale High School, and The Wallis in Beverly Hills. Each gathering aims to create a festive, supportive atmosphere where participants can momentarily set aside their worries.
Star-Studded Dance Instruction Offers Healing Through Movement
Allen has leveraged her impressive industry connections to bring extraordinary talent to these community events. Master choreographers including JaQuel Knight, Laurieann Gibson, Lyrik Cruz, Phil Wright, and DADA master faculty member Karen McDonald have volunteered their expertise to teach free classes.
These instructors represent some of the entertainment industry’s most sought-after choreographic talents. JaQuel Knight has created iconic routines for Beyoncé, while Laurieann Gibson has choreographed for Lady Gaga and numerous other superstars. Their participation brings world-class instruction to community members who might otherwise never access such opportunities.
The combination of Allen’s vision and these choreographers’ talents creates a unique healing environment. Through movement and artistic expression, participants find temporary respite from the stress and trauma of fire displacement. The classes also foster community connections during a challenging time of rebuilding.
Sunshine Skate Foundation Partnership Provides Complete Skating Experience
The April 27 event features a special collaboration with Sunshine Skate Foundation to incorporate roller skating into the healing arts program. Participants aged four and up will have access to four specialized instructional classes: Intro to Roller Skating, Line Dance Roller Skating, Ballroom Roller Skating, and Middle Game (Artistic Dance) Roller Skating.
Cory Joseph, Founder & Executive Director of Sunshine Skate Foundation, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the skating activities. “Roller skating teaches you resilience. Every new skater can tell you it’s not if you’ll fall, but when. How you get back up is the most important part. And this is the lesson we teach through our roller skating events.”
The foundation provides all necessary equipment for participants. Rental skates and protective gear will be available to youth attendees at no cost. Open skating areas with lively music complement the structured classes, creating a festive atmosphere where families can simply enjoy being together and having fun.
Physical Activity Promotes Mental Healing for Wildfire Survivors
“Roller skating is a great way to stay physically active and have fun. We are excited to spread joy to LA County at large, and provide a safe space for the community to gather and express themselves through movement,” Joseph explained. This philosophy aligns perfectly with Allen’s vision for arts-based healing.
The physical benefits of skating and dancing extend beyond simple exercise. Movement-based activities trigger endorphin release, helping to combat stress and anxiety. Many wildfire survivors face ongoing emotional challenges related to their experiences. Activities like roller skating offer healthy emotional outlets.
For children especially, these events provide crucial normalcy during disrupted times. Many families displaced by fires face upheaval in their daily routines, including schooling and recreational activities. Allen’s program creates a space where kids can simply be kids again, focusing on fun rather than their losses.
Continuing Legacy of Arts Advocacy Through Community Support
Allen’s current initiative builds upon her decades-long commitment to arts education and community support. As founder of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, she has consistently championed access to arts training for underserved communities. This disaster response program extends that mission to those facing acute crisis.
The bi-monthly structure of “Dancing in the Light” provides ongoing support rather than a one-time event. This approach recognizes that recovery from disasters like wildfires takes time. By offering regular opportunities for connection and expression, Allen creates sustained community support throughout the lengthy rebuilding process.
