Dance has a magical way of bringing people together. It gives us a chance to express ourselves and have fun.
Performing Artists Lengthening Strides (PALS) is an inclusive dance program that brings people of all ages and abilities together. It is a safe space to learn, perform, and experience the joy of movement in a welcoming environment. For nearly 18 years, PALS has served the Ogden area by giving students an opportunity to build confidence, express themselves, and take the stage.
A Safe Space
PALS began when a local mother was inspired by a similar program in Salt Lake and wanted to bring that opportunity to Ogden. The program originally held classes at McKay-Dee Hospital, but Raymond Van Mason, Founder and Artistic Director of Imagine Ballet Theatre, envisioned something different. Many people with special needs already spend the majority of their time in clinical settings. So Ray welcomed the students with open arms in an effort to give them a space to truly shine.
Jessica Gabler’s connection to PALS grew from her 13 years working with Ray at Imagine Ballet. When the group needed another teacher, Ray asked if she would take over the program.
Gabler initially stepped into the role hoping to make a difference in the lives of her students, but she soon discovered “the complete opposite happened.” She took on PALS during the challenges of COVID, while also adjusting to life as a new mom. In the middle of so much change and uncertainty, the studio became a place where she found encouragement.
The hugs, high-fives, and teamwork became meaningful reminders of what makes PALS unique. She found herself welcomed and surrounded by students who made her feel accepted without requiring her to prove anything about herself.
“And in the midst of all of that, I just felt so completely loved and accepted.”
The connection goes both ways. Jessica described students asking her questions, encouraging one another, and working together to put pieces of dances together. What happens in the studio isn’t simply about learning steps; it’s about discovering what each dancer can contribute and celebrating that together.
Her experience reflects something central to PALS: the relationships formed in the studio matter just as much as the dance itself. Students and teachers learn from one another, and everyone has a part to play.
From Weekly Classes to the Stage
PALS meets every Thursday from 4 to 5 p.m. and welcomes all ages and abilities. Classes provide an opportunity to learn, participate, and create together, with performances offering students another way to celebrate their work.
The dancers will have opportunities to perform at the Christmas Tree Jubilee and in the Jazzy Nutcracker at Peery's Egyptian Theater on December 16th. A Mother's Day performance at the North Ogden Amphitheater is also planned for 2027.
A Community That Gives Back
PALS reminds us that dance doesn't have to look one particular way to be meaningful.
Every Thursday, students come together to learn and enjoy something they love. In the process, they create friendships, encourage one another, and show how much can happen when everyone has a place to belong.
And as Jessica has discovered, the kindness found within PALS doesn't stop with the people who teach or lead the program. It moves between students, families, and teachers, creating a space where everyone has something to offer—and something to receive.
“And in the midst of all of that, I just felt so completely loved and accepted." -Jessica Gabler
A little movement. A lot of magic!
Learn More About PALS
PALS (Performing Artists Lengthening Strides) welcomes dancers of all abilities and is designed to provide an inclusive, creative space for individuals with special needs.
Imagine Ballet Theatre
2432 Washington Blvd., Ogden
801-393-5000
imagineballet.org
Jessica Gabler (coordinator) imagineballetschool@gmail.com
801-860-2821