“Only love can be greater than hate. Only light can overcome the dark.”

In a world that feels heavier than ever, one stage becomes a beacon.

Returning for its 16th Annual Production, KEA Dance Center invites the public into something far more than a performance — Grit & Grace IX: The Love Moment. This will be where emotion becomes motion, where struggle transforms into beauty, and where a community gathers to rise together. 

"Each year, Grit & Grace honors the resilience we carry and the grace we discover along the way," said Kea Tessyman, in a news release. "This season, that message feels deeper, more urgent. Through moments of joy, vulnerability, and raw power, 70 dancers of all ages take the stage—channeling the weight of the world into something luminous. What emerges is not just dance, but a collective release, a shared healing, and a celebration of hope."

From contemporary to hip-hop, jazz to modern, every piece is crafted to stir something within each person and to convey a message of depth and weight, the release said.  "The music pulses, the movement speaks, and before you know it—you’re not just watching, you’re feeling – you’re a part of the movement." 

This year’s production is being called the most uplifting and electrifying, yet, the release said. "A true lighthouse of the Midcoast, KEA Dance Center champions mental health awareness while nurturing a supportive, inclusive dance community."

 Created by Camden choreographer, director, and producer Kea Tesseyman, the mission is simple yet profound: “Movement that moves you.”

“Dance can communicate what words cannot articulate. My hope is that every person leaves feeling more connected—to themselves, to each other, and to the power of love," said Tessyman.

"And just when you think you’ve seen it all, the night transforms," she said. "The stage opens. The energy spills into the crowd. You’re invited to stand, sing, dance—to become part of the movement yourself – one of the signatures of Grit & Grace. Because this is not a recital. This is a community experience. A force of unity. A celebration of love in action."

 The performance is for three nights only: Memorial Day Weekend, May 22 – 24.

Doors open 30 min before curtains for seating. The show runs for approximately two hours and 10 minutes with a 15-minute intermission. 

All tickets will be sold online at CamdenOperaHouse.com or in person at Camden Opera House, 29 Elm Street, in Camden.

VISIT https://keadancecenter.com/events for more information

 Here’s a testimonial from one of our happy audience members:

“There is no more nurturing environment for dancers — young, old, and in between — to explore a variety of dance styles and get outside of their comfort zone. I could write books about what a positive experience our dancer has had working with Kea, and how grateful I am for the way she builds up her dancers, while pushing them to go beyond what they think they can do. The shows are truly incredible displays of choreography and community spirit, and the performers have as much fun as their audiences.” – Ariana K.