Embracing Change

A Letter from Becky Kendall, Outgoing Artistic Director of Momentum Dance Collective

Dear Friends, Supporters, and Members of the Momentum Dance Collective Family,

Momentum Dance Collective started from a need to grow my own artistic abilities and voice here in Anchorage, but grew and thrived because of the shared values, creativity, and ambition of it’s five other founders, and then the many artists and collaborators that have been part of it’s 16 year journey. 

The company went from a scrappy, ready to try anything band of collaborators, to a more organized (still somewhat scrappy) ready to try anything band of collaborators but now with a studio space, larger annual budget, and a ton of opportunities for growth. It is a company with a 16 year track record of accomplishments, partnerships, and trust from the artistic community of Anchorage.

Change is an inevitable part of life, and as Momentum continues to grow, I’m excited to announce my transition from the role of Artistic Director to the position of Executive Director at the end of this season. While it is bittersweet to step away from the artistic helm, I am filled with immense gratitude for the opportunities I have had to lead and shape Momentum's artistic vision.

As I move through this transition, I do so with a profound sense of trust and confidence in the capable hands of Irenerose Castillo and Ariel Graham, who will be stepping into the roles of Co-Artistic Directors starting in the fall of 2024. 

Irenerose brings a unique artistic perspective and a boundless enthusiasm for pushing boundaries and leading with her whole heart. A founding member of Momentum and guiding force since its inception, her leadership both on and off the stage has been invaluable in shaping the company’s identity. I have no doubt that she will continue to inspire and captivate everyone with her work and vision as she moves into this new role. 

Ariel has been a strong artistic voice within Momentum since 2011, serving not only as a talented dancer but also as a director who has continuously supported and nurtured the growth in the company's dancers. She has been supporting the artistic vision for over a decade, and brings with her a deep sense of compassion and dedication to the work with a thoughtful attention to detail that will make her such an asset to this company.

As I transition into the role of Executive Director, I am excited to continue supporting Momentum in new and meaningful ways. While my focus may shift, my commitment to our collective remains and I’m filled with hope and (dare I say) a ton of momentum moving into what’s next. I’m dedicated to ensuring that Momentum continues to thrive, providing opportunities for dance to be an accessible part of our arts community, one where adult dance makers, artists, and audiences can find space to explore and share that transformational piece of connection and community that only art can bring. 

To our community, supporters, and fellow artists, I extend my deepest gratitude for your support and belief in our vision. It has been an honor to serve as your Artistic Director and I am excited to continue this journey with you in my new role.

Here's to embracing change, celebrating new beginnings, and continuing to dance boldly into the future.

With love,

Becky Kendall | Executive Director