Local dancers featured in “Dance Across the USA” project

Jonathan Givens grew up a military brat and at one time lived in Mountain Home, Idaho. He’s now traveling the country in a unique project featuring dancers in our National Parks, Monuments, and even state parks.

“I want them to be able to see the beauty of our country…it’s a lot more than Pokemon Go you know they should get out in nature and do stuff,” said Givens.

He’s traveling more than 16,000 miles to feature dancers in every state at a certain landmark; places like Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, The Alamo in Texas, and The Grand Canyon.

Givens has a long list of credits, as a dancer himself, he performed in many Broadway shows and tours. What brought him into photography may surprise you-Oprah.”I was the carpenter on her set and she encouraged me to make a portfolio of my work,” said Givens. The rest is history. He’s now set out on a mission to capture dancers in some of the most beautiful places in the nation and create a book with the work. Proceeds from the book will go to the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Park Service.

About 3,000 dancers applied and 150 were selected to be a part of the project. Ayriss Torres and Abigail Ralphs of Pocatello are featured along with Avery Rooney of Boise to represent the gem state. Some states have as many as ten dancers featured.

Givens says he noticed a spark in the young dancers and they all brought something special and unique to the project.

However, the adventure has been a costly one. The permits for some of the photo-shoots have caused hundreds of dollars. Givens traveling van, affectionately known as the Mighty Bufor is sponsored by Nissan for gas but there are several other costs associated with the project.

If you’re interested in seeing the project grow or want to learn more about how to help out visit their website here.