Igniting Passion, Elevating Performance
“There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening, that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and will be lost." Martha Graham
Art transforms moments into meaning and movement into memory.
Where quality arts education shapes culture, strengthens community, and elevates our youth.
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to expand access to high-quality performing arts education through merit-based scholarships for low-income youth, support emerging artists- including performers and technical creatives – in their development, and engage the broader community through inclusive performances – beginning with dance and growing into collaborative opportunities across the arts.
ANDREA TAYLOR
Founder & Artistic Director
Wichita Performing Arts Foundation was established 2025 to provide Wichita Area youth and artists alike high quality arts education and performance opportunities. She brings over a decade of experience nurturing dancers of all ages through her studio Dance Kinetics. Known for her dynamic teaching style and deep commitment to technical excellence, Andrea specializes in creative movement for young dancers, holds Acrobatic Arts and Progressing Ballet Technique certifications, and provides master class and pre‑professional training in ballet, contemporary, and pointe.
Andrea began her dance journey at the age of three with MGM Studio of the Dance in Wichita, Kansas, under the direction of Mary Mayta. Her passion and talent earned her a significant scholarship to Friends University, where she completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet Performance and Business Administration while training under Stan and Sharon Rodgers.
Throughout her career, Andrea has studied and performed with renowned artists such as Shawn Stevens (formerly New York City Ballet and Twyla Tharp), Dominic Walsh (Dominic Walsh Dance Theater), Melonie Buchanan Murray (Director of the University of Utah School of Dance), and Misty Rascon Smith (acclaimed commercial choreographer and master instructor). She also trained pre‑professionally with Ballet Austin before pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy at Wichita State University, deepening her understanding of dancer wellness, anatomy, and injury prevention.
After starting her family, Andrea expanded her professional journey beyond the studio, joining the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Prosthetics. She now oversees DME procurement for Veterans—work she is profoundly passionate about and considers an extension of her lifelong commitment to helping others move, heal, and thrive.
Andrea’s approach to dance education is rooted in technical integrity, creativity, and holistic development. Wichita Performing Arts Foundation was organzied to provide is built on the belief that every student—whether recreational or pre‑professional—deserves a safe, inspiring space to grow as both an artist and a person.
Guided by experience
“I often joke that my VA job is what lets me do the right thing for my dancers and their families, no matter the cost. Over the years, I’ve personally scholarshiped students, financed performances from professional artists, invested in high‑quality costumes with little to no return on investment — except the joy, confidence, and opportunity it gives them. I know for most, the stage is safe place, and a very short phase in most of our lives. I created this non‑profit because I believe everyone deserves access to exceptional arts education and performance experiences. From my mother to my teachers, professors, friends, students’ families, theater colleagues, and even local shop owners — all of them have shown me that this work matters. Their constant support reminds me that every bit of extra effort is absolutely worth it.”
Voices from the Stage
IMPACT
OLIVIA LOCKWOOD
COMING SOON
EMMA
PHILLIPS
COMING SOON
ASHLEY BALLET ARTS ACADEMY
Andrea was invited to teach at Ashley Ballet Arts Academy August 2026. She is expected to return to set "SYNC" a contemporary ballet for the companies March Exhibit Spring 2027.
Gallery
The show goes on
