By: Mia Ogebee
The Santa Barbara Dance Institute was built on the principle that every ‘body’ can dance, combining culture and self-expression to bring accessible arts to people of all ages. Through their Creative Aging Dance program, they served 155 seniors in 2025-2026 across 147 classes in memory care communities with little to no arts programming. Founder and Director Rosalina Macisco collaborates with senior care partners to incorporate diverse musical styles that are bilingual, upbeat, and relationship based.
The choreography is adapted in real time — whether residents choose to stand, sit, or sing— to fit their needs. Families are welcome to attend sessions too, sharing special moments that create long-lasting memories.
“Creative Aging is a natural extension of what the arts have always done best: fostering growth, connection, and resilience,” said Rosalina Macisco.
Many residents navigate isolation, mobility challenges, or cognitive decline, and it isn’t always easy for care staff to find meaningful ways to keep them active and engaged. A program built to bring communities together does exactly that, strengthening relationships, emotional expression, and confidence in ways regular exercise can’t match.
“When Rosalina and her team arrive, the atmosphere changes,” explained Alejandra Botello, Activity Director of Mission Park Healthcare Center in Santa Barbara. “Music fills the space, residents become energized, and families gather to take part and celebrate alongside their loved ones.”
Santa Barbara Dance Institute’s work is supported by the Towbes Fund for the Performing Arts, which helps provide free and low-cost dance education to historically unserved communities. Visit grant opportunities page on our website to learn more about Towbes Fund grants and apply before the fall deadline of October 9, 2026.
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