Photo by Canaan Mattson
Dana k. Kassel, Program Director
Dana K. Kassel (she/her/hers) assumed the role of Program Director in 2021 after having served as Program Associate for more than five years. She brings a wealth of experience to the position with her long history as a performer and a highly skilled and respected administrator.
Kassel has served in an administrative capacity for several Twin Cities dance organizations, including Threads Dance Project, Voices of Sepharad, Corning Dances & Company, and for dance writer/choreographer Judith Brin Ingber. She was Co-Coordinator of the Minnesota SAGE Awards for twelve years, has been an advisory member for DanceMN, and a board member for Young Dance. In addition, she worked in event management and catering for over two decades.
Kassel graduated from the University of Minnesota Dance program in 1992; she was a company member in JAZZDANCE by Danny Buraczeski; and danced with Cathy Young and Zenon Dance Company, among others. In recent years Kassel has performed with Laurie Van Wieren, the New Standards Holiday Show, in Rhythmically Speaking, and as part of Choreographers’ Evening at the Walker Art Center.
Photo by Canaan Mattson
Colin M. Edwards, Program Assistant
Colin Edwards (he/him/his) joined the team as Program Assistant beginning in January 2021. Edwards is a Twin Cities-based multidisciplinary artist, event coordinator, administrator, and performer with a passion for movement, music, and unique visuals. Founder of Meridian dance company, he has created and coordinated events such as Cell Games (I & II) and Air It Out, located at Gamut Gallery. Edwards has performed at various major venues including The Ordway Theater, Guthrie Theater, First Avenue, and many others. He graduated from Saint Paul Conservatory for Performing Arts and studied at TU Dance with artists such as Marciano Silva dos Santos and Berit Ahlgren. In addition to dance, Edwards also works in animation and creates clothing. His choreography was recently seen in Rooted: Hip Hop Choreographers’ Evening as well as Choreographers Evening at the Walker Art Center in 2021.