For her Senior Capstone Project at the University of Southern California Glorya Kaufman School of Dance, Jayde Woodard presents LA to LA.

LA to LA is an experience that aims to fill the gaps surrounding accessibility, equity, and education as it pertains specifically to Black aspiring dancers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

This will be a free, two day learning experience where Black dancers between the ages of 13 and 18 have the opportunity to train and deepen their research in forms like Hip Hop, ballet, Jazz, Improvisation, and Contemporary- among others. These classes will be taught by Professional dancers and educators from Los Angeles, California who have received or are in the process of receiving their BFA at the university of Southern California Glorya Kaufman School Of Dance. discussion pannels and Q&A’s will be held where students can learn about the faculty’s dance journey, their experience in college, how to prepare for both commercial and concert dance industries, and the multitude of possibilities one can have with a career in dance. Students will also have the opportunity to take headshots and action shots from a local, professional photographer!

One dancer will be chosen at the end of the event to receive a $1,500 scholarship to help them continue their dance training. All it takes is one opportunity to change someone’s life!

Jayde Woodard is a dreamer. She notices what is missing, imagines what could be, and creates from that space. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, she first discovered her love of dance in the community that nurtured her. As one of the few Black girls in many of the rooms she stepped into, her path was not always easy, but she was carried by a strong village that encouraged her to reach for the stars. Now in her senior year at USC’s Glorya Kaufman School of Dance in Los Angeles, California, Jayde is eager to share the knowledge and perspective she has gained over the past four years. More than anything, Jayde wants to give back to her community and fulfill the needs of aspiring young Black dancers with big dreams. This event is a small seed that Jayde hopes flourishes into one day being her very own non-profit to ensure that Black dancers from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, continue to break barriers and pursue their dreams!

Money raised through this GoFundMe will be put directly into making this event happen: the scholarship, flights and lodging for faculty, lunch, snacks, and water to keep everyone nourished throughout the day, marketing materials, social media boosting, photographers/videographers to capture the event in its entirety, and anything else needed to make this event the best it can be.

Join Jayde on this journey! If you're interested in knowing more or finding other ways to help, please follow @losangelestolouisiana to learn more!

Thank you! Your support means the world to me!