Traverse City Dance Project will launch the inaugural Northern Michigan Dance Festival October 10–12 at Milliken Auditorium in the Dennos Museum Center.

Billed as a "a three-day celebration of world-class dance and community connection," the festival will feature visiting artists from across the country who will perform, work with local musicians, and participate in workshops, school shows, Q&As, and other events.

"Featured performers include dancers from Miami City Ballet, Alvin Ailey, and Joffrey Ballet, along with the full Grand Rapids Ballet company, nationally acclaimed soloists, and innovative choreographers," according to a festival release. "The festival promises to bring the same level of excellence seen on the nation’s great stages directly to northern Michigan audiences, offering a rare opportunity to experience extraordinary artistry without leaving home."

Planned Northern Michigan Dance Festival events are as follows:

Friday October 10 – Educational Performance for Local Students
Friday October 10 – Program A: 7-8:30pm at Milliken Auditorium
Performances: Miami City Ballet dancers perform Herman Schmerman • Tap Dancer Madison Hilligoss • Anishinaabek Singers & Dancers • Falco Dance • Traverse City Dance Project • Dancers from Alvin Ailey & Joffrey Ballet
Saturday October 11 – Program B + Installation/Reception: 7:30pm-9:30pm
Performances: Grand Rapids Ballet performs Be Here Now • Mixed Bill • Installation with live music by the Charlie Millard Band • Reception • Presented with support from the Dennos Museum Center
Sunday October 12 – Program B Matinee: 2pm-3:30pm
Performances: Afternoon festival finale featuring live music by the Charlie Millard Band • Be Here Now by Grand Rapids Ballet • Mixed Bill • Watch the dancers take ballet class onstage as they warm up for the show!

Founded in 2012 by Jennifer McQuiston Lott and Traverse City native Brent Whitney, Traverse City Dance Project was created to bring top-tier dance to northern Michigan. "Since its founding, the company has presented an annual summer season, touring throughout the region to provide free performances in communities that often lack access to live theater," according to the release. "The launch of the Northern Michigan Dance Festival marks the next chapter in TCDP’s strategic plan, expanding programming year-round and strengthening the region’s role as a hub for cultural innovation."

Tickets and more information for the Northern Michigan Dance Festival are available online.