About Us
Premier Dance Education in Historical Chehalis, Washington
Southwest Washington Dance Center is dedicated to professional quality instruction, appreciation and presentation of dance. As an incorporated 501 (C) 3, SWDC was originally established as the Chehalis Ballet Center.
Founded by former professional dancer, Dean Speer of Seattle – the center was established on professional principles and community values. Dean Speer and the original SWDC staff donated their services to get the school up and running. Passion for bringing the art of dance to Lewis County has been and continues to be a cornerstone of SWDC.
In 1995, Hugh Bigney the Director at that time and the Board of Directors changed the name of the school to Southwest Washington Dance Center to better reflect the diverse geographical area the Dance Center Served. Southwest Washington Dance Ensemble provides opportunities for growth beyond dance education.
Our staff and instructors are dedicated to developing premiere technique, and confidence that will last well beyond the dance studio.
SWDC Taking the Stage
Students at SWDC have the opportunity to grow beyond the classroom. Performance is a core pillar at SWDC. By developing relationships with surrounding companies to expand performance opportunities beyond Lewis County.
Southwest Washington Dance Ensemble, the performing Company for SWDC, produces the Nutcracker Ballet every year. This production has grown from the small stage at a local elementary school to the state of the art Corbet Theatre on the campus of Centralia College.
In March every year SWDC hosts and performs at Dance Festival Northwest, where they invite pre-professional level dance companies from all over the Pacific Northwest, to come to the twin cities and participate in master classes and then offer a wonderful dance program to the community.
May of every year brings the annual School Tour, where the company puts together a 30-minute presentation the take to the local elementary schools and nursing homes.
In June they offer an all school dance concert “Spring into Summer.” All of the students may participate in this wonderful display of talent from the little three year olds to the mature advanced dancers. All the choreography for this showcase is original.
Lewis County’s Original
Southwest Washington Dance center has been featured in various community events. Performing arts in Lewis County Over the years, the dancers have danced with Northwest Wind Symphony, Providence Hospital’s Festival of Trees, Miss Lewis County pageant, Art Walk in Olympia, the Southwest Washington Fair, the Merce Cunningham Tribute at Centralia College and various local parades.
Our Staff
Marcia Greenfield
Marcia serves as the Administrative Director for SWDC. Initially hired as the registrar she took on more responsibilities in administrative work and learned the production side of SWDC. She oversees all of the operations of the Dance Center. Marcia is passionate about being part of an organization that brings the art of dance to kids of all ages and the gift of that art form to the community.
A native of Wenatchee, WA and graduate of Wenatchee High School and Spokane Community College, Marcia worked as a Dental Assistant, Stay at Home Mom, and several other positions in bookkeeping and administration. Marcia loves to spend time with her family of two daughters and one granddaughter. She is active in her church and church related small groups and loves to travel, especially on trips to the beach. She loves the Seahawks and has been a faithful “12” since the team began.
Our Board
As a non-profit dance school, our Board of Volunteers selflessly guide and run Southwest Washington Dance Center. Their unique expertise span across various professional careers and interests. The board is made up of community members, current dance parents, parents of previous SWDC dancers and previous SWDC students.
Rachel Mordick
President
Executive Assistant
Board Member Since 2021
Vice President
Mike Orr
Treasurer
Retired Accountant
Board Member Since 2003
Shawn Peters
Teacher – Centralia School District
Board Member Since 2012
Wendy Tripp
Court Commissioner
Board Member since 2015
Anne Elam
Secretary
Director of HR, Dynamic Collectors, Inc
Board Member Since 2021
Tom Feaster
Automobile Consultant
Board Member Since 2022
Tabitha Dennison
Educator - Former SWDC Instructor
Board Member Since 2022
Our Boosters
The SWDC Backstage Boosters are dedicated to supporting various fundraising, promotion and events at SWDC. The Boosters are volunteer parents and dance supporters. Mission Statement:The SWDC Backstage Boosters Club will engage in fundraising opportunities and events in order to support the financial and promotional needs of Southwest Washington Dance Center within the community.
“When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor. It’s to enjoy each step along the way.”
— Wayne Dyer