WEST CHESTER, PA — Hundreds of dancers, families and community members will come together in West Chester this month for an evening that blends performance with purpose, as the fifth annual Dance for HER benefit concert returns to support people affected by breast and ovarian cancer.
West Chester University’s University Dance Company and WCU Dance Team will host the event Sunday, Oct. 25, at 6 p.m. in Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall. The concert brings together dancers from Chester County studios and the university community, with proceeds benefiting West Chester-based Unite for HER.
Since launching in 2022, Dance for HER has raised more than $75,000 for the nonprofit.
The annual showcase features original works performed by dancers from participating studios across Chester County, along with performances by the WCU University Dance Company and WCU Dance Team. Each studio will also recognize people they are “dancing for,” honoring loved ones and community members affected by breast or ovarian cancer.
This year’s event adds a new way for audience members to participate. Guests are invited to bring a photograph, note or small memento honoring someone affected by breast or ovarian cancer for a Dance for HER Tribute Board that will remain on display throughout the evening.
Organizers said the board is intended to provide a visible reminder of the individuals and families whose experiences give the fundraiser its meaning.
“Dance for HER has grown into something much bigger than we ever imagined when we started it,” said Gretchen Studlien-Webb, who leads the University Dance Company.
“It is incredibly meaningful to see dancers, teachers, families and the WCU community come together each year to use dance as a way to support people whose lives have been affected by breast and ovarian cancer.”
Dance for HER’s community-service efforts were recognized with Unite for HER’s 2025-26 Student Service Award. Participating dancers and studios can also raise funds individually or as groups ahead of the concert.
The beneficiary has deep ties to West Chester University. Unite for HER was founded in 2009 by WCU alumna and former dancer Sue Weldon.
The organization provides education, integrative therapies, wellness resources and other support for people affected by breast and ovarian cancers. It now serves more than 10,500 patients annually.
Event Details
- What: Fifth Annual Dance for HER benefit concert featuring dancers from Chester County studios, the WCU University Dance Company and the WCU Dance Team
- When: Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, at 6 p.m.
- Where: Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, Philips Memorial Building, 700 S. High Street, West Chester, PA 19383
- Cost/Tickets: General admission is $23
- More Info: Tickets are available at https://wcupatix.com/org-events. Event information is available at https://www.wcupa.edu/communications/newsroom/2026/10.02Dance.aspx
Attendees who want to contribute beyond purchasing a ticket can donate directly to Dance for HER at https://uniteforher.salsalabs.org/danceforher2026/index.html.
For participating dancers, the evening is a chance to perform for a cause larger than the stage. For families and community members, it offers a way to honor people affected by cancer while helping Unite for HER continue its support for patients throughout Chester County and beyond.
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