Contemporary Dance & Fitness Studio's 50th Celebration Gala features six diverse alumni: Mary Jo Cahilly-Bretzin, Martine Gutierrez, Colette Kelly, Sammie Murray, Hanna Satterlee, and Isadora Snapp. Each artist brings their voice, creativity, and self-expression to the Barre Opera House stage in an evening that is sure to delightfully engage audiences. Following the performance, an artist talk back will be held with audience participation encouraged. Finish the evening with a reception in the Lobby.
VDA members - contact Isadora at info@cdandfs.com to receive a ticket discount.
Isadora has been teaching, performing, and creating work in Central Vermont since 2010. Based out of Barre, she teaches classes in Montpelier at Contemporary Dance and Fitness Studio and has taught at several other Vermont studios over the years. Those studios include Dance Works Academy, Ballet Wolcott, and Stowe Dance Academy.
Her main focus as a teacher has been Ballet for the past several years. She is passionate about bringing the artistry and discipline of classical ballet to non-ballet focused dancers. In addition to classical ballet, she teaches contemporary ballet, modern, and jazz. As a mover and choreographer, modern is her true home.
Hanna Satterlee creates performance experiences and conceptual artworks for stage, site and film. Hanna holds degrees and certifications in dance therapy, psychology, performance, choreography, vinyassa/yin/restorative yoga, non-profit management and arts integration. Hanna shares these passions as an intergenerational educator, interdisciplinary performer + collaborator, experimental curator and event producer.
Isadora has been teaching, performing, and creating work in Central Vermont since 2010. Based out of Barre, she teaches classes in Montpelier at Contemporary Dance and Fitness Studio and has taught at several other Vermont studios over the years. Those studios include Dance Works Academy, Ballet Wolcott, and Stowe Dance Academy.
Her main focus as a teacher has been Ballet for the past several years. She is passionate about bringing the artistry and discipline of classical ballet to non-ballet focused dancers. In addition to classical ballet, she teaches contemporary ballet, modern, and jazz. As a mover and choreographer, modern is her true home.
Contemporary Dance & Fitness Studio was founded in 1973 by Lorraine Neal. Classes were held next door to the Barre Opera House, above what was then Lash Furniture. Performances were at nearby high schools. Several years later, Lorraine began teaching in various churches throughout Montpelier. In 1980, CD&FS moved to 18 Langdon Street, which stayed the Studio’s home for 40 years. Starting in 1982, performances were held at the newly refurbished Barre Opera House.
From one teacher and a handful of classes, the Studio now holds over 40 weekly classes taught by 9 teachers and 4 Jr Faculty members. It serves many central Vermont students, ages 3 to 80+, and yearly May performances are still held at the Barre Opera House.
Lorraine’s commitment to establishing a culture of professionalism and caring has developed a community of dancing and teaching that nourishes students of all ages and levels in various dance styles. In 2010, Lorraine chose Allison Mann to take over as Director of CD&FS, and Allison has continued to develop the Studio’s offerings. Now in 2023, Isadora Snapp is the current Director and Owner, offering classes in Ballet and Pointe, Breaking, Contemporary, HipHop, Jazz, Modern, Tap, and Yoga.
The Studio’s longevity is a testament to the integrity and love of dancing that is nourished within its walls and to the excellence in teaching. We strive to know each of our students and their families while providing them with age and developmentally-appropriate dance education. At CD&FS, we are continually working to develop the strength of our community, which we believe plays a vital role in Central Vermont, while cultivating a love of dance and a respect for the rigors and discipline required for those advancing in levels.
Barre Opera House
6 North Main Street
Barre, VT 05641
United States