PEOPLE OF DJD//

There are many people that make up the community at the DJD Dance Centre. From artists, administrators, volunteers and beyond, these walls are pulsing with personality.

HEATHER CLOSE
DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE

1.WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU CAME TO DJD AND WHY?

I grew up attending DJD shows with my family and always loved the performances, I found them inspiring and inventive. I also attended jazz dance lessons in Jr. and Senior High School at DJD’s 4^th street location. I tried a little bit of everything growing up, highland dancing, gymnastics, soccer, tennis, piano and nothing grabbed my interest the way that jazz dance did.

2.TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT DJD.

In my role as Development & Communications Associate, I assist with fundraising, grant writing and sponsorship programs as well as work on events such as our annual fundraiser The Black & White Ball. I truly enjoy the work that I get to do at DJD, as I get to assist in raising the funds that allow us to put on such amazing productions, support our talented company dancers and allow us to continue to provide valuable community outreach programs.

3.DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE BY DAY, WHAT PASSIONS OR HOBBIES DO YOU TAKE PART IN, IN YOUR SPARE TIME?

I am a visual artist and work on my art practice in my spare time. I graduated from ACAD (AUArts) in 2009 with a BFA with distinction in painting. Recent exhibitions include Mutable Immobiles in the Arts Commons Window Galleries in February 2018 and Introducing: Heather Close at the Christine Klassen Gallery in September 2017. I also enjoy spending time walking in Fish Creek Park and hanging out at home with my cats; Richard and Mimi.