When I arrived back in my hometown I was a combination of nervous and excited about the possibility of dancing again.

I dropped in on a few classes here and there as I found my footing (pun intended) back home. Modern struck a cord for me as a youth, though the discipline of ballet fueled me to continue in other dance styles like jazz and contemporary. Beck Diamond, a modern instructor at Island Dance, taught the modern class I dropped into. Her eyes lit up when I explained I was back “for good” or at least for a long while. She urged me to come back on Sunday for an alternative modern collaboration called Meander Dance Collective.

By definition, Meander means “to follow a winding or intricate course.” It can also mean “to wander aimlessly or casually without urgent destination.” Sounds like most modern dance curriculum! I was just itching to get dancing again. When another chance to take classes came, I leapt at the opportunity to join the collective.

As we near Meander’s summer Concert in the Woods in August, I finally got to know a little bit more about Beck’s vision and how Meander Dance Collective came to life…

Meander Dance Collective offers an accessible atmosphere for adult artists to re-enter the dance community at any technical level; though most were, or are, experienced dancers.

“There is a dance school for children and teens but no adult company. I think that was/is in many places a by product of the state of dance in America more broadly.”

It’s true. Island Dance is where the majority of dance and gymnastic students take their classes. Age levels vary from toddlers to adults. The Whidbey Island Dance Theatre company is composed of varying ages from junior to high school students pursuing dance technique. Filling the schedule to offer more adult-aged classes is tough. Navigating this challenge with fluctuating faculty is difficult. Furthermore, it’s not easy carving out time and money to take class in adulthood.

“As a creative district and artist hub I thought this place should have it’s own professional dance company.”

Thus, Meander Dance Collective was born! Founded in 2021, Meander is a welcoming space for adult dance artists to explore and refine their craft. The collective nurtures development of new choreography. It offers members the opportunity to share their work during an annual outdoor concert set against the stunning backdrop of Whidbey Island woodlands. By covering rehearsal space and production costs, the organization ensures that all dancers in the community have equitable access to create and perform.

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A word with Beck:

Hailey: This summer, you’re bringing dance into the woods at the Whidbey Institute and South Whidbey State Park. What inspired these outdoor performances, and how does nature shape the choreography and audience experience?

Beck: I have always loved outdoor performance and I would definitely consider myself an environmentalist. The truth comes down to cost and COVID. The cost of an amphitheater is far less expensive than a traditional theater. When we first began, people were eager to gather again in any way they could. Outdoor venues offered a safer way to come together. These are also beautiful spaces that really changed our performance. You can see the dancers in full form and close up. This really challenges the emotionally safe separation of the dancer and audience, which opens a window of vulnerability to witness something that is deep and multi-faceted. It’s really a unique experience that’s not as dressed up.

Hailey: Dance, as you describe, is a mirror of our inner and collective worlds. What themes or emotions are you hoping to express in this year’s concert?

Beck: It definitely is. Mirroring is natural and constant for most humans. It’s a psychological and biological tool for human connection. Dance utilizes this biological function to connect in abstract—and sometimes very direct—ways. The way we dance and witness dance draws us into connection and emotion with each other. The audience, as witness, is an integral part of accomplishing this art.

In this year’s show, the audience may experience transcendence, nostalgia, love, curiosity, joy—and always hope. In our darkest times, we must lean into hope and let it guide us toward purpose and positive change. This show will fill your cup and restore energy to those who are feeling weary.

Hailey: Your model prioritizes accessibility—both for dancers and audience members. Why was it important for you to offer free rehearsal space, and to make performances donation-based?

Beck: I believe that dance belongs to ALL OF US to the dancers and the larger community. Dancers need support financially to make their art, so it is necessary to cover the cost of rehearsal and performance space for the artists. Now, the true function of dance is to connect to each other. Dance as performance only serves us if we experience it together. So it must be accessible to our entire community. Audience members can donate, but it is not required. People can just bring their presence. This is how we make a more equitable dance and art world. We take one of the largest barriers, money, out of the equation for the dancers and for the audience.

Hailey: What does community participation mean to Meander—not just in terms of audience attendance, but also in terms of energy, response, and presence during a performance?

Beck: Ahhhh yes! It matters we feed off of the energy whether it is cheering, sighs, or tears. We share the experience and it creates an energetic infinity loop feeding dancer and witnessing. So please express out loud if it feels right! Also, come to multiple shows!

Hailey: Can you tell us about one of the pieces or choreographers featured in this year’s performance that you’re particularly excited about?

Beck: I am excited about all of the pieces and it is nearly impossible to pick one. But, I think Brooke Lindsley really surprised me. This is her first choreographed piece. It’s a tap piece that brings so much energy and joy, but the content of the piece really is a platform for the importance of platonic friendships. It brings me to tears. I never thought I would cry at a tap piece, but this one did it!

Hailey: For those who’ve never seen a dance performance in the forest, what can they expect—and what do you hope they walk away with?

Beck: Hmm…I think they should expect a deep emotional impact. I hope they walk away feeling like it’s time to make space in their lives for whatever it is that feeds their soul.

Well, what a notion to wrap up on. “Making space in their lives for whatever it is that feeds their soul” doesn’t that just strike a chord? I think that’s what eventually drew me back to here… I would have to focus to hold space for whatever is drawing me closer to my soul’s calling.

Talking [and dancing] with Beck reminded me exactly why I returned to South Whidbey—this is a place where artistic expression isn’t just encouraged, it’s nurtured. Meander Dance Collective offers space for dancers to move, dream, and create, but it also reflects the spirit of the island itself—a community that holds room for writers, painters, musicians, and all who seek to grow in their craft. If you’re feeling that same pull toward grounding your creative spirit, come on over — you’re in very good company.

For more information on Meander Dance Collective, visit their website or follow along on their Facebook or Instagram for more dance performances and opportunities.