New Works: America in Motion
The Vanaver Caravan is thrilled to announce its newest production, a dynamic exploration of America’s cultural and social heritage, directed by Brian T. Lawton. This groundbreaking project weaves together the music, stories, and movements that have shaped the nation. Guided by our newly-formed Artistic Re-Visioning Committee—a collective of next-generation Caravan dancers and musicians working in close collaboration with our founding members, Livia and Bill Vanaver—this performance breathes fresh perspectives and renewed energy into our creative legacy. READ ON . . .
The Vanaver Caravan Announces New Production Exploring America's Cultural Heritage
The Vanaver Caravan is thrilled to announce its newest production, a dynamic exploration of America’s cultural and social heritage, directed by Brian T. Lawton. This groundbreaking project weaves together the music, stories, and movements that have shaped the nation. Guided by our newly-formed Artistic Re-Visioning Committee—a collective of next-generation Caravan dancers and musicians working in close collaboration with our founding members, Livia and Bill Vanaver—this performance breathes fresh perspectives and renewed energy into our creative legacy.
About the Show
Drawing inspiration from some of our most celebrated tributes—Pastures of Plenty (honoring Woody Guthrie), Turn, Turn, Turn (celebrating Pete Seeger), and Streets of Gold (evoking the immigrant experience)—this new production delves deeply into the essence of the American spirit. Through music and movement, it examines contemporary themes such as immigration, access, inclusivity, labor, and workers’ rights, reflecting on the struggles and triumphs that define the American experience.
As we approach the 250th Anniversary of the United States, this show serves as both a celebration and a conversation. It acknowledges the past, confronts the present, and imagines the future we wish to build together. With powerful choreography, stirring music, and a diverse cast of performers, this production invites audiences on a journey through time—illuminating the voices, rhythms, and stories that continue to shape our nation.
Brian T. Lawton: Artistic Director for the New Production
While Livia and Bill Vanaver remain the visionary founders and Artistic Directors of The Vanaver Caravan, we are delighted to welcome Brian T. Lawton as the Artistic Director for this exciting new project. Brian’s leadership, creativity, and vision are invaluable assets to this production, and his role marks an exciting step forward for our organization.
About Brian T. Lawton: Brian brings over two decades of experience in the performing arts, both on and off the stage. A seasoned choreographer and director, he has worked with esteemed dance companies and theaters across the United States. Brian’s work often explores themes of identity, community, and resilience, making him an ideal leader for this production. His dedication to fostering inclusivity and cultural dialogue through the arts aligns seamlessly with the mission of The Vanaver Caravan. Brian’s unique ability to merge tradition with innovation ensures that this new production will honor our roots while charting new creative territory.
Be a Part of the Journey
This production is more than a performance—it’s an invitation to reflect, engage, and envision the future of our shared American story. Whether as an audience member, collaborator, or supporter, you are an essential part of this journey.
Stay tuned for updates, including performance dates, locations, and ways to get involved. Together, let’s celebrate the rhythms, stories, and resilience that move us forward.
Shakti Caravan 2025
This month, The Vanaver Caravan is in India! Livia, Bill, Andy Teirstein, Jill Ann Schwartz, and Chelsea Needham are part of the Shakti Caravan, sharing dance and music in the streets and schools of Udaipur and Pondicherry.
This month, The Vanaver Caravan is in India! Livia, Bill, Andy Teirstein, Jill Ann Schwartz, and Chelsea Needham are part of the Shakti Caravan, sharing dance and music in the streets and schools of Udaipur and Pondicherry. For Livia and Bill, Chelsea and Livia, this trip is a homecoming; for Andy, it’s a fresh adventure.
The Shakti Caravan, an initiative of The Vanaver Caravan since 2012, is all about cultural exchange—building bridges from Ulster to Udaipur and New Paltz to Auroville, connecting communities through the joy of dance and music.
In Udaipur, the City of Lakes, cobblestone streets come alive with spontaneous contra dances. Bharat Verma, India’s first body percussionist, transforms everyday movements into captivating rhythms. The Caravan also collaborates with Shikshantar, The People's Institute for Re-thinking Education and Development, enriching the exchange with innovative learning and green entrepreneurship.
Just outside Pondicherry lies Auroville, a global community rooted in unity. Every Thursday at dawn, Chelsea and Livia Zoom in from New York, Bharat joins from Udaipur, and together they lead dance classes with the Malarchi kids at Aikiyam School—a celebration of movement across time zones. This month, they all get to dance together!
The Shakti Caravan’s programs are as varied as its dance steps: bringing dance to schools, sharing rhythms with local dancers, and performing in theaters, streets, and festivals. Each step and song weaves a tapestry of shared stories.
Follow their journey on our Instagram: @Vanavercaravan.
Celebrating Our 2024 Season: A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors
This year, our journey was supported by our sponsors. Below, we celebrate their contributions and share a glimpse into their inspiring work. . .
As we reflect on another year, we are filled with gratitude for the community of supporters and sponsors who made 2024 an unforgettable success. Together, we have brought the transformative power of the arts to life through innovative programming, inspiring performances, and impactful education initiatives.
This year, our journey was supported and enriched by our sponsors. Below, we celebrate their contributions and share a glimpse into their inspiring work.
Transformative Funding and Support
A special acknowledgment goes to the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Their generous funding allowed us to produce the magical Into the Light, engage our community through the SummerDance Variety Show, and continue our mission to bring high-quality arts programming to underserved areas. Website | Instagram | Facebook
We are also deeply grateful to Arts Mid-Hudson for their commitment to fostering the arts in our region. Their support was pivotal in expanding our work in underfunded schools, creating opportunities for young learners to experience the transformative power of music, dance, and storytelling. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Business Sponsors
Adams Fairacre Farms A family-owned supermarket offering fresh produce, groceries, and gardening supplies, with a commitment to local farmers and the community. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Choice Words A professional writing and editing service specializing in effective and impactful communication for individuals and businesses. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Dawes Septic and Repair A family-owned business providing expert septic system services to communities across Ulster, Orange, and Dutchess counties. Website
Fidelity Charitable A philanthropic organization enabling donors to achieve their charitable giving goals through donor-advised funds, promoting impactful philanthropy. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Heroes Journey at LifeBridge Sanctuary An organization providing transformative retreats and programs aimed at personal growth, resilience, and healing. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Hudson Valley Credit Union A member-owned financial cooperative providing a wide range of financial services to individuals and businesses in the Hudson Valley region. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Marbletown Multi Arts (maMA) A vibrant community arts center offering performances, workshops, and events that inspire creativity and connection. Website
Matagiri Sri Aurobindo Center Dedicated to the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, this non-profit organization promotes spiritual education and community engagement. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Serving the community with personal and business banking solutions, MHVFCU supports local growth through its financial services and community-focused initiatives. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Mountain Laurel Waldorf School A Waldorf education school providing a holistic learning environment focused on creativity, individuality, and hands-on experiences. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Natural Investments A socially responsible investment firm dedicated to aligning clients’ portfolios with their personal values and sustainability goals. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Shadowland Stages A premier performing arts venue dedicated to producing compelling theater experiences and nurturing artistic talent. Website | Instagram
Stewart’s Shops A family-owned and operated chain of convenience stores across New York and Vermont, offering freshly made food, beverages, and locally sourced products. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Stone Ridge Orchard A historic working farm offering a variety of fresh fruits, baked goods, and community events in a picturesque setting. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Woody Guthrie Publications Dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of iconic American folk musician Woody Guthrie through music, education, and publications. Website | Instagram | Facebook
Looking Ahead
As we close this chapter, we are excited about the possibilities the future holds. To everyone who supported our 2024 season—your contributions inspire us to dream bigger and create even more impactful arts experiences. Together, we make magic happen.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to another year of creativity, connection, and community!
Three Cheers for 2024’s Individual Supporters:
Kathryn Adorney
John and Judy Allen
Augustus Allen Segev
Elizabeth Axelson
Amy B Duggins Pender
Barbara Bash
Patti Beyer
Bruce Block
Helen Brocker
Molly Brooks
Anna Canoni
Tobe Carey
Donna Cohen
Therese Colette
Sue Cusack
Sierra DeCrosta
Steve Densmore
Katie Emerson-Hoss
Lauran Epstein
Adams Fairacre Farms
Priscilla Fairbank
susan falk
Louisa Finn
Nancy Sills and Franklin Moss
Daniel Frisina
Elisha Gechter
Steve Gorn
Marisa Goudy
Arlene Gould
Marc Grossman
Maria Guralnik
Robin H Minkoff
Adelaide Haas
Phyllis Hart
Jennifer Hayward
Clifford Hoberman
Emily Hopper
Ricki Illes
Natural Investments
Peter Kahan
Gary Kaufman
Clarice Kjerulff
Christine Kuhnke
Mountain Laurel
Susan Lesser
Marie Letourneau
Julian Lines
Rachel List
Marina Lopez
Yinan Lu
Ted McKnight
Anneke Meeter
Robert Melikyan
Robin Minkoff
Scott Minkoff
Lori Morris
Cathy Muller
Donna Nisha Cohen
Tom Nolan
Kirsten Palmbo
Nicole Parete
Marni Pasch
Susan Pavane
Amy Pender
Alla Pinsky
Rachel Prince
Karl Rodman
Ted Rotante
Sarah Safford
Joel Schuman
Ronald Simon
Richard and Judy Skeels
Rickie Solinger
Sarah Stackhouse
David Stanley
Aaron Stern
Jason Stern
Evan Stover
Andrew Teirstein
Amy Tuscanes
Douglas Van Auken
Lee van Laer
Emily Vanston
Lawrence Vanston
Jon W Way
Cleandra Waldron
John & Meg Wallace / Mattern
aaron warshawsky
Jon Way
Miranda Way
Georgia Weinmann
Linda Welles
Leslie Wellington
Timothy Wilson
Mathew Zenkowich
Do you own a business? Get involved!
The Vanaver Caravan is seeking in-kind gifts and services for our 2025 mid-winter silent auction in February. Reach out now.
One Dance, One Song, One Community: Join Us in Uplifting the Arts
Becoming a mother has had me reflecting on what I value most dearly in this life. As I make the slow return to my role as executive director at The Vanaver Caravan, I’ve been thinking about how to strike that healthy balance between work and family, while facing a future overshadowed by daunting uncertainty. But I’m not here to dwell—this is a . . .
Becoming a mother has had me reflecting on what I value most dearly in this life. As I make the slow return to my role as executive director at The Vanaver Caravan, I’ve been thinking about how to strike that healthy balance between work and family, while facing a future overshadowed by daunting uncertainty. But I’m not here to dwell—this is a message of hope!
Lucky for me, my work here is not just a job. The people who make this organization thrive—staff, artists, board members and volunteers—do so because we believe in the essential impact we have in the communities we touch. Whether it’s the 20 schools and nearly 8,000 students we reach annually, the many audience members who attend our performances, the talented artists with whom we collaborate, or the families, children, and aspiring dancers in our dance institute— our work as an arts organization is far-reaching and meaningful.
Yet, the impact is always difficult to quantify. It is the work of human connection and dignity, of building confidence and breaking down barriers, of igniting that singular spark of joy that only dancing and singing together can ignite. The Vanaver Caravan is a thriving, ever-changing, endlessly supportive network of people bound by a shared hope for this world and the people within it.
As we near Into the Light season, the fervor of community gatherings, performances, and shared joy remind us that hope isn’t just an abstract ideal—it’s something we build together, one song, one dance, one moment of connection at a time.
Now, more than ever, we need our community’s belief to keep going. I know we're not the only nonprofit reaching out for support at this time of year—so many worthy causes deserve our attention and resources right now. But if there’s one thing I can say about the Caravan, it’s that our mission is to uplift others as well. A gift to us nourishes the arts and strengthens our partnerships. We work hand in hand with other nonprofits, artists, and organizations to create an arts ecosystem where each of us supports the other.
Your support isn’t just for us—it’s for every student who finds belonging, every artist whose work reaches further, every audience member who feels renewed hope. In a time when so much feels uncertain, your donation is a testament to the power of small organizations that, together, make a tremendous impact.
What a wholly unique and beautiful thing it is to know that my three-month-old daughter already has a community—a web of support and creativity that has been lovingly woven over decades by people who believed in this work, just as I do. The Vanaver Caravan is a place where every effort, every donation, and every partnership contributes to something deeply felt by all who are a part of it.
I invite you to be part of this journey. To be part of a community that believes in the value of the arts, of human connection, of daring to hope. With your support, we can continue to be that source of strength, joy, and resilience.
Thank you for considering the Caravan in your end of year giving. We—and our concentric communities—are truly grateful.
With love and hope,
Miranda Wilde Way
Executive Director
The Vanaver Caravan
Photo of Miranda and her daughter, Wynnie, at AppleFest 2024. Taken by Rafal Pustelny.
The Caravan Family grows!
Introducing Elowyn. and Penelope!
We are thrilled to share the wonderful news that this summer has brought not just warmth and sunshine to our community, but also the arrival of two beautiful new members of the Caravan family. Both Wilde ten Broeke sisters, Miranda and Juliet, have safely and happily welcomed their babies into the world.
Miranda gave birth to a healthy baby girl, Elowyn "Wynnie" Wilde Way, on July 18th, 2024 at 10:28pm. 7lb 12 oz, 21 inches long! Juliet's little one, Penelope "Poppy" Wilde Petkanas, arrived just five-and-a-half weeks later on August 31st 2024. 8lb 3oz, also 21 inches long. Both mamas and babies are thriving. Their hearts, and ours, are overflowing with happiness as we welcome these new lives into our tight-knit community.
We look forward to seeing Miranda and Juliet embrace the joys of motherhood and raise their little dancers together.
With all our love,
The Vanaver Caravan Family