Turning Vision into Action: The Impact of Heather Close's Initiative

Rozsa Foundation
Mar 31
2 min read

Updated: Apr 28

by Lisa Mackay

Photo from Olio (the first Relaxed performance show) by Laura Kleiner

Expanding Arts Accessibility

For Heather Close, a participant in the 2021-2022 Rozsa Arts Management Program (RAMP), turning vision into action has meant real change. This change has transformed her organization, impacted her community, and enriched future audiences. Her RAMP final Capstone Project, funded by the Rozsa Foundation, was focused on reducing barriers to access at Decidedly Jazz Danceworks (DJD). It included two exciting initiatives: relaxed performances and in-school jazz workshops.

Relaxed Performances at DJD

The relaxed performances, developed in partnership with Inside Out Theatre, provided a welcoming, judgment-free environment. This new approach benefited audiences who thrive in a flexible arts-going experience. The performances included dimmed lighting, reduced sound levels, and relaxed house rules. Families with neurodivergent children, new parents, and others could enjoy live performance comfortably and confidently.

DJD's staff and artists were trained to adapt the venue. With this training, they are now well-equipped to host these performances regularly. Audience feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. As one dancer noted, the energy in the room was “joyous and unforgettable.”

Engaging Students Through Workshops

Meanwhile, the Jazz Band Workshops brought DJD’s signature fusion of live jazz and contemporary dance directly into high schools. In these sessions, students learned original music from DJD productions and collaborated with professional musicians. They explored choreography with DJD dancers. These workshops culminated in school performances and outings to DJD shows. This approach deepened students' connections to the performing arts.

Through pilots at Bowness, William Aberhart, and Central Memorial high schools, DJD gathered insights on adapting workshops for various contexts. They developed a pricing model that balances school budgets with donor support, ensuring sustainability.

Aberhart Workshop – photo of the workshop in progress (photo by the teacher)

Bowness Jazz Performance – photo of the jazz band and dance students performing what they learned through the workshops at their jazz gala by Laura Kleiner.

Building Long-term Impact

Heather’s project not only laid the groundwork for two new long-term programs at DJD. It also demonstrated how targeted outreach can cultivate future audiences. It is creating a more accessible and inclusive environment in the performing arts community.

Reflecting on her journey, Heather credits the RAMP program for equipping her with the tools and confidence to lead bold initiatives. “These programs wouldn’t have happened without the support of the Rozsa Foundation,” she remarks. “Being trusted to implement these ideas—and then seeing the joy, inspiration, and learning that emerged—was truly rewarding."

The Rozsa Foundation's Role

This project serves as a powerful example of how the Rozsa Foundation’s dual investment in training and funding strengthens Calgary’s arts sector. By supporting emerging leaders, such as Heather, the foundation encourages new approaches, pilots innovative ideas, and enables their realization.

As DJD builds on these offerings, we anticipate the ripple effects: new audiences, engaged students, and a more accessible arts landscape for all. The impact of initiatives like these extends far beyond immediate results. They lead to a brighter future for performing arts in our communities.