Casa Captivating
Casa Romantica believes that the arts are vital to children’s development. Our mission has not diminished despite disruption to our community and our nonprofit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, respite in art, history, and nature has become more valuable than ever as our community weathers this unprecedented time. In addition to becoming a virtual destination for art, history, and educational resources, Casa Romantica gave a young artist an opportunity to perform for a prestigious virtual dance competition.
Claire Kingston, age 10, had rehearsed a difficult contemporary dance piece meant to be performed at the Kids Artistic Revue competition for over six months when California’s shelter-in place-order was announced in March 2020, and nearly all dance competitions were canceled for the year. Many young artists no longer had an opportunity to perform the pieces that they had worked so hard on.
Then, Kids Artistic Revue announced that it would hold a virtual competition. Dancers were asked to film their pieces and submit them to the competition, which would be streamed to online audiences.
Claire remembered Casa Romantica as a beautiful destination for the arts, and asked for permission to film her competition piece on the grounds, which were closed to the public from March 18-May 20. “Performance opportunities for young artists are fundamental in building responsibility, creativity, and confidence,” said Executive Director Amy Behrens. “We were thrilled to support Claire in her pursuit.”
Claire filmed her competitive piece, “Smokestacks,” in Casa Romantica’s historic Main Salon and filmed improvisational dances that were inspired by the Casa’s gardens throughout the site. “Casa Romantica is so beautiful and I am so thankful I got the opportunity to dance at such an inspiring place!,” said Claire.
