Los Olivos Dance Gallery will celebrate 25 years of teaching and inspiring young artists when dancers ranging from 4 years old to adults perform in the studio’s annual “Centre Stage” show at the Solvang Festival Theater on May 16-18.

Owner and artistic director “Miss Maggie” Mesikep opened the family-run studio in Los Olivos in 1994, and it has been a big part of the little community ever since.

This year’s Centre Stage will include a special performance choreographed by guest choreographer Joe Istre, featuring both current dancers and alumni from across the 25 years of Los Olivos Dance Gallery. Photo by Mike Mesikep

“We are proud that our studio is ‘Where Students Learn to Love Dance!,” Mesikep said. “For 25 years, one dancer after another has carried with them the love, confidence, and self-esteem dance gives to them on the journey to their future.”

This year’s show features a special performance choreographed by guest choreographer Joe Istre. It also will feature current dancers as well as alumni from across the 25 years of the studio.

Istre’s artistry, cutting-edge, stylized movement and unique approach to teaching keep him in demand nationwide. His Broadway and tour credits include 42nd Street, Chess, Contact, West Side Story, and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, among others.

Senior Show opening night is at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 16, with additional performances on Friday and Saturday May 17 and 18. Saturday includes a 10 a.m. Junior Show as well as the 7 p.m. Senior Show.

Tickets will go on sale soon. Visit losolivosdancegallery.com for the latest information.

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