ArtSpireVa was founded by Gennifer Difilippo in 2015, driven by her experience as a high school dance team coach. Year after year, students auditioned for the team with little to no dance experience, feeling discouraged after the first day and not returning for the rest of tryouts. Those who did come back, despite their uncertainty, often grew to become some of the strongest dancers on the team. Gennifer knew that these students, and many others, needed a supportive environment and access to arts education, which led her to create ArtSpireVa. 

ArtSpireVa is a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring performing and visual arts are accessible to all students, regardless of their background or financial situation.

ArtSpireVa provides students with the resources they need to succeed, from voice lessons and dance classes to theater workshops. Over the past nine years, the organization has awarded countless scholarships to students who would otherwise lack the means to pursue their artistic passions. This fall, ArtSpireVa has already awarded over $18,900 in scholarships to more than 50 students, covering lessons, ballet shoes, leotards, and other essentials to help them thrive. 

By partnering with local studios and schools, Gennifer connects students in need with opportunities. Whether through parents, school counselors, or even elementary schools requesting art supplies, ArtSpireVa steps in to ensure the arts remain accessible.

While rooted in dance, ArtSpireVa supports all forms of the arts. Scholarships are available for camps and classes in visual arts, voice, theater, and more. The organization also plays an active role in local events, including the Alexandria Community Nutcracker and the annual Celebration of the Arts Spring Fundraiser. 

The community's involvement is central to ArtSpire's mission, with the organization playing an active role in local events such as the Alexandria Community Nutcracker and the annual Celebration of the Arts Spring Fundraiser. 

Not only that, but ArtSpire Dancers performs uplifting dances at local charity events such as Walk to Bust Cancer and CureFest for Childhood Cancer. 

The Purple Tutu Program - The Arts For All

In keeping with their mission statement “The Arts For All,” ArtSpireVa was honored to be asked to partner with The Purple Tutu program a dance program serving neurodivergent dancers. The Purple Tutu was started by Madison Harden a former West Potomac Dance Team member and ArtSpireVa dancer.  Madison founded the chapter in Virginia after moving from South Carolina. Six dancers from Purple Tutu will perform in this year’s Nutcracker, reflecting ArtSpire’s inclusive mission. 

Grace Kidwell, who will perform as Clara in The Nutcracker, was diagnosed with autism at age five. Having danced in the production for several years, she’s excited to share her story and show others that no matter what challenges they face, they can achieve anything they set their hearts on - a message central to ArtSpire’s motto, "Art’s For All."

The Alexandria Community Nutcracker

One of ArtSpireVa’s standout events is the Alexandria Community Nutcracker. Unlike other local Nutcracker productions, this one brings together dancers from various studios, giving them the chance to collaborate and form lasting friendships. Dancers range in age from three to adult, representing a variety of styles from tap, jazz, hip hop, ballet, gymnastics, and Irish step dancing. 

This year’s Nutcracker will feature over 200 performers from nine studios, including West Potomac Academy. Even the principal of West Potomac will make a guest appearance in the party scene as "Grandma." What makes this performance even more unique is the inclusion of the Purple Tutu dancers, an initiative that ArtSpire proudly supports. 

The impact ArtSpireVa  has had on the community is undeniable. From providing scholarships to over 50 students this year alone to fostering a sense of unity and inclusion through the arts, Gennifer and her team are making a lasting difference. 

Be sure to catch the Alexandria Community Nutcracker, running from December 4-7 at West Potomac High School and witness firsthand the incredible talent and community spirit that ArtSpire brings together. You can soon purchase tickets online at www.artspireva.com.

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