#BlackExcellenceSpotlight - Stephanie Guiland | School Director, Spectrum Dance Theater
Spectrum Dance Theater School Director Stephanie Guiland works to ensure every student has access to quality dance instruction and provides an outlet to youth who otherwise may be unsure how to express themselves. She’s been in her current position with the school since 2021, but worked alongside Artistic Director Donald Byrd as a guest instructor prior.
“The value that I want to share is the same as our core belief, and that is ‘dance for all’,” Guiland said. “The environment that I strive to create is simply one of safety. I always say that this is a judge free zone, and if it’s for everyone then why should someone ever come in and feel like they’re being put on the spot?”
The school itself was founded in 2004 by Shawn Roberts, who along with Artistic Director Donald Byrd decided to create a program which would support the missions of the theater. Guiland has taken that mission and run with it.
“The people that are just here from their hearts, primarily the adults and the little ones, they completely change as individuals,” Guiland said. “This is a space where you can just try something. No one cares if you fall down. It’s a space where you can just be who you are.”
Guiland herself draws on a 30+ year career as a professional dancer which includes Broadway credits in her instruction, which has brought the joy of dance to so many. You can learn more about Guiland and the program at the link in our bio.
Photos by Seattle photographer Jordan Somers on behalf of Converge Media.
