Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers

- Cori Terry Theatre, 359 S Kalamazoo Mall # 204, Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Introduction / Overview

In the vibrant arts scene of downtown Kalamazoo, Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers stands as a pillar of modern dance and a haven for creative expression. More than just a performing arts theater, it is a professional modern dance company that has been inspiring, engaging, and educating the community for decades. Founded by the visionary dancer and choreographer Cori Terry, Wellspring is committed to offering a unique voice in modern dance, presenting compelling and thought-provoking theatrical performances. This is not a place that focuses on dryly learning steps; instead, the emphasis is on teaching students how to move their bodies and express themselves in a way that is both meaningful and fun. The ethos of the organization is deeply rooted in inclusivity and community service, making it a perfect fit for a wide range of people. As one parent noted, the school was the "perfect" fit for their daughter after struggling to find the right place. Wellspring is a "transgender safe space" and "LGBTQ+ friendly," ensuring everyone feels welcome and respected. This commitment to a nurturing environment is evident in the compassionate and understanding approach of the staff. For instance, the willingness to accommodate a student with special needs and ensure a positive experience speaks volumes about their values. Beyond its professional dance company, Wellspring also operates a dance academy, offering classes for children and adults. These classes are taught by working professionals and focus on the fundamentals of movement before delving into specific styles, which provides a strong and creative foundation for every student. The organization’s impact reaches far beyond the stage, with a focus on affordability through need-based scholarships and a family discount program, ensuring that the transformative power of dance is accessible to all members of the Michigan community.

Location and Accessibility

Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers is located in a prime downtown spot at the Cori Terry Theatre, 359 S Kalamazoo Mall # 204, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA. Its address in the heart of the Kalamazoo Mall places it within the city's lively Epic Center, a hub for arts and culture. The location is easily accessible for residents and visitors alike, situated in a pedestrian-friendly downtown area. For those arriving by car, the venue has a wheelchair-accessible car park, providing convenient and secure parking. The theater's commitment to inclusivity continues with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all patrons, regardless of mobility, can enjoy performances and access the facilities without difficulty. This thoughtful attention to physical accessibility is a key part of the welcoming atmosphere that defines Wellspring. The presence of the theater in a bustling part of the city allows for a seamless experience, as it is surrounded by other attractions, restaurants, and shops. The Cori Terry Theatre itself is a state-of-the-art facility, custom-designed to host a variety of performances and events. Being located in the Epic Center also means that the theater is a prominent part of the local arts landscape, making it a recognized and respected venue for artistic expression. This central location in a well-established cultural district reinforces the organization's role as a vital part of Kalamazoo's creative community, making it a convenient and desirable destination for anyone seeking high-quality performing arts experiences.

Services Offered

• Theatrical Performances: As Southwest Michigan's only professional modern dance company, Wellspring presents original works choreographed by Cori Terry, company members, and guest choreographers in its two annual concert series, the Fall Concert of Dance and the Spring Concert of Dance.

• Fall Concert of Dance: A yearly showcase of new and established modern dance works by the professional company.

• Regional Alternative Dance Festival (RAD Fest): Wellspring is the proud host and curator of this juried festival, which features professional and emerging dance artists from across the country and the world, offering a diverse and innovative look at contemporary dance.

• Business Meetings/Presentations: The Cori Terry Theatre is available for rental, providing a unique and professional venue for business meetings, presentations, and other events with a capacity of 120 seats.

• Dance Academy: In addition to performances, the organization offers a comprehensive dance academy with classes for both adults and youth. The curriculum includes Creative Movement for young children, focusing on the basics of movement rather than strict technique, as well as more specialized classes for various skill levels and styles.

Features / Highlights

• Professional Modern Dance Company: Wellspring is a critically acclaimed, professional company known for its unique and authentic voice in modern dance, which sets a high standard for its performances and classes.

• Inclusive and Safe Space: The organization is an LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safe space, with a mission to create a safe, equitable, and inclusive dance environment for all students and patrons.

• Community-Focused: Wellspring is deeply committed to the community, offering need-based scholarships and a family discount program to make dance education affordable and accessible. Their willingness to accommodate students with special needs showcases a genuine care for every individual.

• Innovative Educational Approach: Classes, particularly for younger students, focus on creative movement and expression rather than rigid technique, allowing children to learn to love dance and move their bodies freely and joyfully.

• Unique Events: The annual Regional Alternative Dance Festival (RAD Fest) is a major highlight, attracting diverse artists and offering a truly special and enriching experience for the Kalamazoo community.

• Accessible Facilities: The wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance ensure that the theater and its services are available to people of all abilities.

• Convenient Payment Options: The acceptance of credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments makes transactions quick and easy for patrons.

• Broad Reach: The organization's impact extends beyond performances, with a focus on dance education, community outreach, and collaboration with other local artists and organizations.

Contact Information

Address: Cori Terry Theatre, 359 S Kalamazoo Mall # 204, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

Phone: (269) 342-4354

What is worth choosing

When searching for a performing arts destination in Kalamazoo, Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers presents a compelling and unique option that goes beyond a typical entertainment venue. The primary reason to choose this place is its unwavering commitment to community and inclusivity. Unlike many arts organizations, Wellspring's core mission is not just to perform, but to inspire and educate everyone, regardless of their background or ability. The stories from local customers, such as the parent who found a perfect fit for their daughter with special needs, are powerful endorsements of this philosophy. The staff's willingness to go the extra mile, to have conversations about individual concerns, and to be "very understanding of our situation" sets them apart. Furthermore, the availability of need-based scholarships and a family discount program shows that the organization is dedicated to breaking down financial barriers to the arts, making it a truly accessible resource for families across Michigan. The educational approach is another significant highlight. The focus on creative movement for young children, rather than a rigid emphasis on perfection, allows kids to genuinely enjoy themselves and develop a love for dance. This supportive and fun learning environment is crucial for building a strong foundation and encouraging long-term participation. Finally, the organization's role as the host of the Regional Alternative Dance Festival (RAD Fest) provides the community with a unique opportunity to witness cutting-edge and diverse modern dance from around the world without having to leave Kalamazoo. Choosing Wellspring is choosing to support an organization that is not only a leader in its artistic field but also a dedicated and compassionate member of the Kalamazoo community, enriching lives through movement, education, and inclusive expression.

Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers

Cori Terry Theatre, 359 S Kalamazoo Mall # 204, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA