(South, Orange, NJ) -- The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) has received a $30,000 grant from the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation for the continuation of its Dance Series inaugurated last year. The 2015-16 grant represents a $5,000 increase from the funding for the 2014-15 series and will allow SOPAC to continue its ongoing commitment to presenting superb, New Jersey-based dance companies.

The selected dance companies for the 2015-16 season include Umoja Dance Company, American Repertory Ballet, Atlantic City Ballet, NJ Tap Ensemble and Freespace Dance.

This funding provides opportunities for New Jersey dancers and choreographers to gain exposure in a high calibre performance venue, in addition to building local and regional dance audiences. SOPAC also enjoys the additional benefit of the diversified programming achieved through presenting a dance series.

The intended long-term impact of such a series is to have an established audience for dance which eagerly anticipates each season of SOPAC’s dance presentations.

“The Dodge Foundation has generously provided us an opportunity to be a welcoming home for dance companies in New Jersey,” said SOPAC Executive Director Mark Packer. “Our theatre and Loft are uniquely suited to presenting these wonderful artists and we look forward to bringing their inspiring, energizing, and entertaining performances to our stage!”

For nearly 40 years, the Dodge Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of the arts in New Jersey by funding organizations and programming such as SOPAC’s Dance Series, believing in the power of the arts to enrich lives, bring people together, revitalize public spaces, and help communities thrive.

For more information regarding performances at SOPAC, call the box office at (973) 313-2787 or visit www.sopacnow.org.

About SOPAC

Since 2006, SOPAC has been serving as a premier performing arts center in the region. SOPAC offers innovative artistic and cultural experiences for diverse audiences in an intimate, inviting environment. The premier arts center hosts a variety of live performances, community events and education programs for all ages.  To further expand its offerings, SOPAC has a partnership with the Juilliard School of Music to present Juilliard @ SOPAC—a series featuring upcoming musicians from the acclaimed conservatory.  SOPAC is home for Seton Hall University Arts Council’s performances, including Classical Concert Series, Jazz ‘n the Hall performances and Seton Hall Theatre productions.  SOPAC also presents performances by its theater company in residence, Midtown Direct Rep, and its dance company in residence, Lydia Johnson Dance.  For more information, visit SOPACnow.org.