WAKE FOREST: On May 30th, 2026, North Carolina Dance Institute (NCDI) held their inaugural performance for Steps to Stage, a new audition-only performance program for dancers searching for training in technique and artistry. Created by newly appointed Artistic Director and previous NCDI dancer Victoria Moore, the Steps to Stage program already boasts 40 passionate dancers ranging from 6-18 years old. This year’s 40-week training program culminated into Silver Spotlight, a lively performance of more than 20 original choreographic works created by NCDI teachers and students.
Performed inside Wakefield High School’s large auditorium, the show started with a bang: a full ensemble performance choreographed by Kirstie Spadie (Executive Dir.), Victoria Moore (Artistic Dir.), and current NCDI dancer Shia Edwards. Truly, it’s no easy task to coordinate 40 dancers in one dance piece! The three choreographers demonstrated artistic mastery through thoughtful dance movements, interesting formations, and complimentary costuming.
The following 19 pieces clearly showcased each student’s unique talent and passion, with several senior students performing gripping solos in a variety of dance styles, including contemporary, lyrical, and jazz. Each soloist also co-choreographed their dance, showcasing that Steps to Stage not only fosters dancers but choreographers. Shia Edwards, who is finishing her high school education at UNCSA’s Preparatory Dance Program Advanced Training Program, choreographed and performed contemporary jazz solo “SKYLARK” with suburb control, expression, and athleticism.
The performance concluded with an onstage finale, with Spadie and Moore joining the program’s dancers and audience members in celebration of NCDI’s inspiring and exciting new chapter! Silver Spotlight reminded us that young dancers crave training in not only technique but also artistry and emotion. Spadie and Moore showcased a wonderful new program that is sure to educate and inspire dancers in Raleigh.
“We are thrilled to launch Steps to Stage as an exciting new extension of North Carolina Dance Institute’s class offerings — an initiative designed to elevate the training experience and deepen the connection between technique and performance. Steps to Stage is more than just a program; it’s a pathway for passionate dancers to explore the transformative power of performance. Through focused training, creative exploration and more, dancers will grow not only in skill but as profound artists. At NCDI, we are deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of performers through a well-rounded dance education — one that balances strong technical foundation with opportunities for creative expression, artistic growth and real-world performance experience. The stage is waiting. Join us!” – Artistic Director Victoria Moore and Executive Director Kirstie Spadie
Did you know? In addition to regular technique classes, Steps to Stage dancers meet for only one hour per week. This hour is dedicated to setting and rehearsing the end-of-year showcase pieces. In just over 40 hours of rehearsal time, the dancers learned, rehearsed, and perfected each piece featured in Silver Spotlight — that’s an incredible accomplishment for each instructor, choreographer, and dancer!
Audition for Steps to Stage
July 18, 2026 // 2-3pm
5910 Duraleigh Rd #101, Raleigh, NC 27612
Photos by Robb Webb and Ken Wolf
Author: Emily Robison
Emily Robison is a dance choreographer, educator, performer, and advocate. She founded The Dance Resource in April 2026.
