Choreographers, dancers and directors from throughout the state will be in Chattanooga this weekend for the Tennessee Dance Festival. Presented by the Tennessee Association of Dance, the annual event will feature masterclasses in multiple techniques and performances by professional, preprofessional and university ensembles.
Host sites are the Center for Creative Arts, Chattanooga Ballet and Girls Preparatory School. Three showcase performances are scheduled in the CCA auditorium, 1301 Dallas Road.
-- Saturday at 1:15 p.m. is the Cathie Kasch Student Choreography Project, intended to highlight and develop leadership and creativity in student dancers. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three works. Admission is free.
-- Saturday at 8 p.m. is the festival's Gala Concert, which features state and regional dance companies performing ballet, modern and jazz. Admission is $15.
-- Sunday is the Celebrations Members Showcase, offering a look at statewide dance companies in a concert of ballet, modern, tap and jazz dance. Admission is free.
Masterclasses are open to all intermediate and advanced dances ages 12 and older, as well as college and professional dancers. Visit the Tennessee Association of Dance website at www.tennesseedance.org for class schedules and registration information.