A study released by Americans for the Arts in June 2002 concluded that from major metropolitan areas to small rural towns, nonprofit arts are an economically sound investment. They attract audiences, spur business development, support jobs, and generate government revenue. Locally, as well as nationally, "Arts mean business!"

With this in mind Apex Contemporary Dance Theatre, as Parker's first and only professional dance company, has ambitious plans to make a positive impact on Parker and DouglasCounty communities. Founders David Reuille, Artistic Director, and Heidi Nichter, Executive Director and Associate Artistic Director, bring impressive credentials as professional dancers and choreographers to their task.

The goals of Apex are spelled out in detail on their website at www.apexdance.org, and include establishing a local performance venue for concert dance, developing an educational outreach program for children, and attracting top-level performers. Fundraising for startup and general operational costs is a priority. Interested local business leaders are being sought for the Board of Directors; made up to-date of David Reuille, Heidi Richter, Brooke Ebel and Michelle Pugh.

In celebration of this exciting new development a Dinner for Dance fundraiser and auction is being held on Sunday,April 27 (Postponed from March 9) at 5:00 p.m. at Roman Villa Restaurant, Mainstreet and Dransfeldt, in Parker. Those interested can download a Dinner for Dance Will call form from the Apex website. Tickets are $100 and a five-course meal with wine will be served. Some amazing silent auction items will be offered, including original art by Tadashi Hayakawa, 7-day Hilton Get-away vacation, Breckinridge and Dillon condo weekends, and much more. Seats can be reserved by emailing heidi@apexdance.org.

All proceeds will go to support attaining the goals of Apex Contemporary Dance Theatre.

To obtain information about Apex's Educational Outreach programs go to www.apexdance.org/ed-outreach.pdffor a downloadable and printable brochure.

An important goal of the company is to be a nationally and internationally sought after company. In so doing Apex will become an ambassador for Parker and for Colorado, increasing the visibility of the community as one that supports the arts and culture.