Poised for a Dance Explosion: Lauren Post's Transformative Journey to Lead Minnesota Dance Theatre

Lauren Post, a renowned dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, is embarking on a transformative journey as she takes the helm of Minnesota Dance Theatre (MDT) as the school director. With a packed performance schedule, a cross-country move, and a new role, Post's multifaceted life exemplifies the power of dance to expand horizons and inspire communities.

Unlocking the Potential of the Twin Cities' Dance Scene

Embracing the Challenges of a Busy Schedule

Lauren Post's schedule is a whirlwind of activity, with performances in "Romeo and Juliet," "Swan Lake," and "Like Water for Chocolate" at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City, followed by a move to the Twin Cities and her new role as the school director of MDT. Despite the stress and bittersweet emotions of leaving her home and company of 16 and a half years, Post is embracing the excitement of these changes. She recognizes the value of diversifying her training and the importance of cross-training, which she believes can lead to a more well-rounded dancer and athlete.

Transforming Lives Through Dance

For Post, dance has been the cornerstone of her life, serving as a vehicle for personal growth and cultural exploration. Growing up in Mississippi, dance opened up a world of possibilities, allowing her to travel the globe and learn about different cultures. Post believes that dance has the power to transform and heal, and she is eager to share this transformative experience with the next generation of dancers in the Twin Cities.

Revitalizing the Local Dance Scene

The Twin Cities dance scene is at a transitional moment, with the recent announcement of the end of regular performance schedules at the Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts, and MDT's shift to focus solely on education. Post sees this as an opportunity to reinvigorate the local dance community. She envisions MDT becoming a destination for classical ballet training, potentially leading to the revival of a strong local professional company.

Investing in the Future of Dance

Post's primary focus as the new school director of MDT will be to invest in the educational component of the organization. By developing a strong foundation of dancers through excellent training and performance opportunities, she hopes to draw students from across the country to the Twin Cities. This strategic approach aims to position MDT as a leading destination for classical ballet education, laying the groundwork for a potential future revival of the professional performance company.

Securing Financial Support for the Arts

Post acknowledges that securing financial support is crucial for the success of any arts organization. She recognizes the need for a multifaceted approach, including grants, private donations, corporate sponsorships, and support from the city. By strengthening the financial foundation of MDT, Post aims to create an environment where the organization can thrive and potentially reestablish its professional performance company.

Embracing the Transformative Power of Dance

At the heart of Post's vision for MDT is a deep appreciation for the transformative power of dance. She believes that dance has the ability to expand horizons, foster cultural understanding, and provide a healing and emotional experience for both dancers and audience members. By investing in the educational component of MDT, Post hopes to inspire the next generation of dancers and cultivate a thriving dance scene in the Twin Cities.