STORIES IN MOTION. HEALING IN COMMUNITY.
Veterans Expressions Project
With support from the California Arts Council’s Veterans Initiative in the Arts, South Coast Dance Arts Alliance created the Veterans Expressions Project—a program that helps the children of veterans and active-duty families find their voice through movement, storytelling, and imagery. Guided by Nannette Brodie and the artists of NBDT, youth participants transform lived experience into expressive art in a safe, welcoming environment.
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Creative Movement Workshops
Explore modern dance fundamentals and improvisation to build confidence, connection, and self-expression.Storytelling & Composition
Turn memory into meaning through guided prompts, journaling, and collaborative choreography.Photography & Reflection
Pair movement with basic digital photography exercises to frame personal narratives and celebrate progress.Sharing & Community Events
Culminating showings invite families and partners to witness works-in-progress and finished pieces.
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Children and teens from veteran and active-duty families
Community partners and agencies serving military households
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The Veterans Expressions Project has been made possible in part by the California Arts Council through its Veterans Initiative in the Arts, supporting community-based arts programming for veterans and their families.
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Our inaugural performance (October 11, 2017) was a collaborative event directed by Nannette Brodie—featuring NBDT artists and veteran performers during Patient Centered Care Day at the VA. Attendees discovered a wide range of wellness programs on site—movement expression, Tai Chi, photography, and more—while witnessing how dance can uplift, connect, and heal.
We believe art can hold a story, soften a burden, and strengthen a community. Veterans Expressions invites young people to move beyond words—toward courage, imagination, and hope.
Bring the Program to Your Community
Partner with us to support military families through the arts.