Our Story
A Legacy of Passion and Growth
Our story . . .
Our story began in 1996, sparked by a dream in the heart of Laura Golphenee, a dancer with a passion for sharing the transformative power of movement. With grit and grace, she turned that dream into reality, creating Northern Dance Theatre – a haven where young dancers in Colville could blossom.
Under Laura’s expert guidance, the studio became more than just a place to learn steps; it was a vibrant community where friendships were forged, teamwork soared, and dreams took flight. Her impact was far-reaching, bringing joy and an appreciation of the arts to the Colville community. Countless students, inspired by Laura’s dedication, went on to pursue dance at the university level and beyond, their hearts forever marked by the magic they discovered at NDT.
Originally built as a home for the Opera House and Odd Fellow Lodge in Colville, Washington, the building was constructed in 1911. It is a fine example of Classical Revival architecture. It is three stories high and its notable features are an arch window on the third floor, the pediment in the roofline and decorative columns.
It served as a theatre and the home to the local chapter of the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), a international fraternal order established in 1819. Originally, the building had two floors. The First floor was the theatre and the IOOF inhabited the second floor.
Today the third floor is home to Northern Dance Theatre while there is a restaurant on the first floor. In 1997, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Place.
A new chapter, a shared vision
In 2022, a new chapter unfolded as Emily Rumley, a dancer and educator with a deep appreciation for Laura’s legacy, took the helm of Northern Dance Theatre. Emily shares Laura’s vision of nurturing young talent and enriching the Colville community through the arts.
As we embrace this transition, we’re committed to honoring our roots while continuing to grow and evolve. Our goal is to provide a nurturing environment where every student feels valued and empowered to explore their unique artistic potential.
Our Talented Team
At Northern Dance Theatre, we’re proud to have a team of passionate and experienced instructors who are dedicated to nurturing the dancer within each student.
Get to know the faces behind the barre and discover the unique blend of expertise and artistry that makes our faculty so special.
