CPRD Ribbon-Cutting Opens Center for the Healing Arts

With the snip of shiny ceremonial scissors, a crowd of supporters, staff, dancers, family, elected officials and interested onlookers were all part of a spirited and heartfelt ribbon-cutting ceremony that officially opened Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Center for the Healing Arts. Most-heard phrase throughout five days of grand-opening activities: “It’s finally here!”

Style meets function with a reverent respect of the past at the beautiful structure at the intersection of Park Avenue, Washington and 20th streets in Denver’s iconic Five Points neighborhood. The Center’s new design nicely complements the adjoining, historic former Shorter Community AME Church, CPRD’s smaller venue, while incorporating state-of-art attributes for four new studios and a theater for performances.

Minister Daryl Walker (left) and Brother Jeff

On a chilly Saturday, Jan. 17, guests, performers and speakers helped ward off the cold with their warmth during the outdoor portion of the ceremony. Among those speaking to the crowd: CPRD President/CEO Malik Robinson; co-founder Schyleen Qualls, who flew in from San Francisco to attend; Denver City Council’s Five Points representative Darrell Watson; Denver Mayor Mike Johnston; Kim Bimestefer, co-chair of the grand opening leadership committee, who made remarks on behalf of Gov. Jared Polis; and U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, who helped with federal support of the project. African drummers led guests into the building after the ribbon-cutting. There, Board Chair Gwen Brewer and founder Cleo Parker Robinson spoke to the enthusiastic crowd.

The Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Healing Center for the Arts at 2025 Washington St

Everyone agrees that the new Center represents the mission to move forward with even more emphasis on utilizing performance arts as a way to grow and heal kids and adults alike. Classes go beyond dance into areas such as percussive arts. One thing we learned during the grand opening: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance really does feel like a positive, joyful, close-knit community (and it showcases great talent during engaging performances as well).

One of the master classes offered to guests.

To learn more about Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, go to https://cleoparkerdance.org/ (and be sure to read more about its namesake founder and staff). To see Spotlight Colorado coverage of the Grand Opening Donor Gala, please visit: https://photos.blacktie-colorado.com/event/vip-gala-celebrates-cleo-parker-robinson-dance-25-million-expansion/ .