A new program will shine a light on those living with Parkinson’s Disease, while also offer free dance classes.

Drum Love will offer a unique opportunity for the community to experience the transformative power of movement and drumming through a special event combining a free public screening of the award-winning documentary “Capturing Grace” and a free four-week long pilot Dance for Parkinson’s classes.  This programming is made possible by a Dance for PD Launch Grant and The State Theatre in Modesto.

The program will kick-off with a free screening of the documentary film “Capturing Grace,” a documentary that tells the story of what happens when professional dancers from the legendary Mark Morris Dance Group collaborate with individuals living with Parkinson’s. The film explores the transformative power of dance and connection through an inspiring lens. Directed by David Iverson, the film is both a celebration of art and a testament to resilience. The screening will be held at 4 p.m. Sept. 17 at The State Theatre, 1301 J St., in Modesto.  To RSVP for the free film screening, go to:  https://events.humanitix.com/dance-for-parkinsons. Learn more about the film at capturinggrace.com. 

In conjunction with the film screening, the Dance for Parkinsons pilot classes are gentle, accessible dance classes designed specifically for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, their families, friends, and care partners. 

Taught by Dance for PD trained dance instructor Rose Lape, the classes use the grace and joy of movement to improve mobility, balance, and emotional well-being. The sessions will also include live drumming by David Rogers, adding a vibrant and engaging musical element that enhances rhythm, movement, and connection.   No dance experience is required—just a willingness to move and connect.  

Dance for PD is an award-winning global program developed by the Mark Morris Dance Group and Brooklyn Parkinson Group. The classes are specifically designed to address the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and are offered in over 400 communities across more than 30 countries. Research shows that dance can improve balance, coordination, mobility, and overall quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s. Learn more at danceforparkinsons.org.

The dance sessions will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon on Sept. 24, Oct. 1, 8 and 15 at Juline School of Dance, 1700 McHenry Ave., Modesto. To register, visit https://events.humanitix.com/dance-for-parkinsons.

“This program is about more than dance—it’s about reclaiming a sense of one's self, one's body and joy in the face of Parkinson’s,” said Lape.