Dance studio director pays tribute to dad
In 28 years, Donna Gould Jessen, artistic director of the Gould Academy of Dance Arts of Elgin, has produced many programs, but none may be more emotional or rewarding as the one her dancers will put on this Father’s Day weekend.
Titled “Family Vacation,” the theme of the production is inspired by her father, Robert Gould, who died last October. Shortly after his death, Jessen began developing a vacation-themed performance as a tribute to him. Jessen’s production will be showcased this Saturday and Sunday at the Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin.
“I was reminiscing about my childhood and how much we enjoyed our vacations,” Jessen said. “The show was inspired by my dad and my memories of the time we spent together.”
The performances are all based on family vacations she took as a child and as a mother of two. Jessen’s father, who established Robert Gould Builders in 1957, often took Jessen and her family on trips. Over the years, she said she gained a lot of knowledge from her father.
“He was a man with a big heart and had a huge impact on my life as a daughter and business owner,” Jessen said. “He gave me good advice until the very end.”
Jazz, tap, ballet and hip hop are among some of the dance styles which will be incorporated into the performances. There will be 145 dancers partaking in the program, ranging from ages 2 to adult.
One of those dancers is Jessen’s 18-year-old daughter, Isabella. This performance will be Isabella’s last with her mother’s studio, adding more significance to this show.
“It’s been a wonderful experience,” Jessen said. “We’ve been through so much together and have a very close mother-daughter relationship. I am really going to miss her.”
“We have such a close relationship. She’s my agent, my best friend, my trainer,” said Isabella, who will be studying dance while attending Pointe Park University in Pittsburgh this fall.
The younger Jessen said the show will be a culmination of nearly 17 years of dance, as well as a nostalgic trip to her past.
“The show is based on various trips we took together as a family and as a dance group,” Isabella added. “It just brings back good memories.”
Jessen said there will be a great variety of music, choreography and entertainment that everyone will enjoy.
“Even the dads tend to love our shows,” Jessen admitted.
Tickets are $22, $12 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the Gould Academy of Dance Arts, 732 W. Chicago St., Elgin, before the shows, and at the Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, on Saturday and Sunday. Call (847) 742-6666 for details.