Hey MPD, thanks for taking the time to chat with us! How did Motion Pacific Dance get started?

Motion Pacific opened on January 16th, 1998. Founders Molly Heaster, Carmela Woll, and Greg Favor pulled together to create a space for those who had formerly worked and danced at All the Right Moves. In 2009, Motion Pacific expanded its presenting programming, solidified its standing as a 501(c)3 nonprofit, and renovated a 4000 square foot warehouse in downtown Santa Cruz. Twelve years later, Motion Pacific has increased partnerships with local nonprofits and expanded our reach to encompass the programs described above. Motion Pacific continues to offer a variety of dance and movement programs for dancers and movers of all ages and abilities.

What does MPD do and offer that differentiates it from other studios?

Motion Pacific is a 501(c)3 that not only offers non competitive dance classes for youth and adults alike, but Motion Pacific also produces:

  • Community events like Santa Cruz Dance Week
  • Queer Programming like MAJESTY and BBQueer and DragStory Time and more
  • Presenting Programming like max10, and hosting guest artists.

How has the city of Santa Cruz impacted and inspired MPD?

Motion Pacific has always worked to serve the community. Our community driven mentality is what drives the development of our programs and initiatives. Additionally, partnering with other local organizations allows us to support even more of our community members.

What challenges has Motion Pacific faced, especially with the advent of the Covid pandemic?

Motion Pacific is a small budget nonprofit. The Covid pandemic hit us hard as we rely on classes and events to sustain us, but the community of dancers really rallied to keep moving and keep us moving with them. More recently, Motion Pacific is being affected by being pushed out of our space by our landlords and the upcoming development downtown, south of Laurel. In an ever recent-increasing landscape, Motion cannot afford to exist as we have in a space of our own downtown. We will have to leave our home in September of this year.

How does MPD stay connected with the community?

Our partnerships, event programming, and classes keep us connected to this community. Motion Pacific is ALWAYS looking to collaborate with new artists, organizations and community members. Sharing resources and building together is what keeps a community thriving and sustainable.

Are there any activities or aspirations that MPD is looking forward to?

Motion Pacific is looking forward to finding new pathways in this time of transition – How can we serve our community even more? Finding a forever home for this organization will be a journey – but it is one that we see as not just daunting, but an opportunity to shift, grow, and evolve.

What does a NEXTie mean to Motion Pacific Dance?

It is an absolute honor to be recognized as Community Builder of the Year. Work in nonprofits is often quiet and unseen, and it can also be hard to see how far your reach really goes. So to be recognized as a community builder and leader is deeply appreciated. It means that we have that much more inspiration and motivation to continue the work that we do, with a space or without. Motion Pacific will continue to create and develop with our community at the center of our foresight.

How can people; get connected with/ get involved with/ interact with Motion Pacific Dance?

Come to an event! Take a class! Visit our website – text us, call us! (408) 508-5125

Anyway that feels comfortable and approachable to you is what we support. We look forward to connecting and sharing with you!

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Santa Cruz is going through a time of deep change. A recent study showed that the arts in Santa Cruz contribute to millions of dollars in local revenue, and yet there is continuously limited funding and arts organizations are closing their doors. Please think about the way that the arts bring vibrance, culture, nuance and humanity into your lives. Now consider and imagine what a Santa Cruz without the arts might look/feel like. The next time you feel like donating – please think of your local arts organizations. It can be Motion Pacific, it can be another organization you like. Your contributions make a difference.

Thanks MPD, thats all the questions we have for you! Get your ticket to the NEXTies to come say hi to them and other movers and shakers being highlighted at this years’ May 17th NEXTies awards! See you there!