Colorado West Performing Arts Company

Background Statement

Theresa Kahl’s lifelong dedication to dance is the driving force behind the establishment of the Colorado West Performing Arts Company (CWPAC), the first and only professional ballet company on the Western Slope of Colorado. For more than 30 years, Theresa has been deeply embedded in the dance community, instructing, choreographing, and nurturing young dancers through her work at Absolute Dance. Her passion for dance, coupled with her entrepreneurial spirit, led her to create not only one of the region's most successful dance schools but also a professional ballet company that now serves as a cultural cornerstone for Western Colorado.

Theresa saw an unmet need for professional ballet in the region. While Denver is home to several professional companies, the Western Slope had none. Inspired by her love for dance and the growth of the local community, she knew it was time to fill that void. In 2021, Theresa founded CWPAC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to bringing professional ballet to the region. Her goal was simple yet ambitious: to provide Western Colorado with high-quality, professional performances and to offer local dancers the opportunity to work alongside experienced mentors.

Theresa’s decision to form CWPAC was rooted in her belief that every dancer deserves a place to grow and succeed, regardless of where they live. She saw too many local dancers working hard but lacking access to professional performances and guidance. CWPAC fills this gap, offering performances and a space for aspiring dancers to learn from the professionals.

Community support is essential to CWPAC’s continued success. By attending performances and contributing to the company, the people of Western Colorado play a vital role in keeping professional ballet alive in the region.