Rooted in Movement: A Community Renaissance Fundraising Gala honors Black History Month and is Mounarath Powell Dance Theatre’s annual fundraiser. This special evening pays tribute to the Black artists and performers who paved the way for generations of artists today.

Our organization has long been committed to creating opportunities for young dancers, including providing scholarships to youth from underserved and marginalized communities. Proceeds raised from this event will support the continuation of these scholarship programs and help launch our building expansion goal—to create a full-sized theater that will sustain and grow our classes, rehearsals, and performances for years to come

To celebrate, we invite attendees to wear their best black and gold attire and come ready for an evening of fun and connection. The event will feature an open dance floor with a local singing artist, a silent auction, food and wine, a photo booth, raffle prizes, a tributary portrait gallery honoring Black artists, and performances by MPD’s pre-professional and professional companies.

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Mounarath Powell Dance has a rich history of collaborating and partnering with local, national, and international artists and provides opportunities and a platform for artistic expression. MPD has served as a hub that brings together multidisciplinary artists and has commissioned work from many established and emerging choreographers and directors.

Mounarath Powell Dance also extends beyond the stage with free masterclasses and most recently a free day of dance that was open to a wider range of ages and experience levels. Under the MPD umbrella, we also offer the Arts4Us program. This inclusive dance class offers adults with developmental disabilities and adults of all abilities a welcoming space to move, express, and connect through dance.

Mounarath Powell Dance believes the performing arts, whether on or off stage, is for all and with your support we can continue to share our vision.

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MPD extends immense gratitude to the following individuals and business for their support and donation to the event:

Anna Estrada
Arnie Valenzuela
BJ’s
Blackbird La Mesa
Ceramicafe
Cristy and Frank Thaheld
Mary Puppin’s Dog Training
PRP Wine International
Public Square Coffee
SD Gymnastics
SD Yoga Center
Snake Oil Cocktail Co.
The Hills Pub
Trader Joe’s
Ultra Star Mission Valley

Rooted in Movement: A Community Renaissance Fundraising Gala - 2026