(Cleveland, Ohio – April 13, 2021) – DANCECleveland announced the appointment of Sarah Sumbrum as Artistic Director. This newly created position will be responsible for curating the organization’s programming, including its annual world-class performance series.  

Sumbrum has been with DANCECleveland for over a decade in many positions that most recently have include Marketing and Associate Artistic Director.  

Pam Young, the Executive and Artistic Director for DANCECleveland, stated, “Having delayed my retirement to continue to lead DANCECleveland through the pressures of COVID, allowed the Board and Search Committee to reimagine the leadership structure for the organization.  Moving forward, the Executive and Artistic responsibilities will be separate, allowing the new Executive Director to direct strategic initiatives and growth for the 65-year old stalwart organization while Sumbrum will focus more specifically on the artistic vision.

“What is most exciting is that Sarah joined DANCECleveland right out of college in an entry-level position to grow and develop as a non-profit arts leader. She is ready to tackle this challenge and has both the background and experience to be an excellent Artistic Director. I am excited to see her move into this critical role,” Continued Young.

Sumbrum, a life-long Clevelander, comes to the appointment with a diverse dance background that includes an array of experiences as an artistic leader, marketer, consultant, choreographer, performer, and dance teacher. “I grew up attending DANCECleveland with my family and was thrilled when I was invited to join the staff nearly a decade ago. It was my dream job and now I look forward to continue bringing the legacy of artistic excellence.”

Over her tenure at DANCECleveland, she has served the organization as the Administrative Coordinator, Group Sales Manager, and Marketing Director. Sumbrum has a dual Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance and Strategic Communications from Mercyhurst University and a Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Administration from John Carroll University.

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About DANCECleveland, a Cleveland, Ohio-based non-profit, is one of a handful of presenters in the nation dedicated solely to the presentation of modern and contemporary dance. The hallmark of the organization is its annual performance series and surrounding array of educational and outreach events. Whether quietly elegant or wildly exuberant, DANCECleveland has a history of presenting a rare mix of performances from nationally and internationally acclaimed dance companies to audiences across Northeast Ohio. 

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