Our History
The history of Wings to Fly is rooted in the backgrounds, world travels, and the characters of the Three T’s. Tena, Tasha, and Tara bring their compassion to make a difference in the world. Their expertise in dance and choreography mixed with a theme inspired by world events create works that can reach people and make a positive impact. Tena is a massage therapist, Tara works in physical therapy, and Tasha in yoga and meditation therapy. All three have in-depth studies of the human body and spirit. When they combine that with their training in dance, vision, intention, prayer, stage and some lights… magic happens.
The first shows that benefited from the three T’s combined work began in 2000, when Tena created a performing and visual art center for The Arc of St Lucie County. Movement and breath with music can lift spirits and give life meaning. Tena coined the phrase, “Where disabilities become abilities”. We love participating in local art festivals, food drives, and benefits, and are available to perform.
Board of Directors
Tasha P. Shirley, Executive Director & Principal Choreographer
Tena Patterson Miller, Founder & Chief Source of Inspiration
Tara Anstensen, Assistant Director & Choreographer
Paul A. Shirley, Board Chair
Debbie Allison, Member at Large
Genevive La Gratta, Member at Large
Brian Spector, Member at Large
Recognized Non-Profit Information
IRS Employer ID: 81-2119330
Public Charity Status 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) and 501(c)(3) – Dated 4/14/2016
Florida Not For Profit Corporation: Document No. N16000003501 – Dated 4/6/2016
The Harness
The Freedom Harness was conceived and developed by Tara Anstensen and is the culmination of years of work and prototyping. Physical conditioning and body mechanics are also carefully choreographed by Tara for all “pilots” to properly support the “fliers”. The Freedom Harness, first debuted in the WTFDC show TIME in 2012, has been used in all our shows. New for HOPE 2019 is the Flier Frame. Designed by Paul Shirley and made by Bausch Enterprises in Stuart, the frame is able to provide additional support needed for some dancers. Assisting backstage with the harnesses are Kimberleigh Molchanov, Mellissa Lagana, and Kaya Anstensen. Thanks also to the Flier Frame prep and transportation team: Tom Dennett, Jon Lee Miller & Tim Gibson.
Photography
Special thanks to these photographers who have captured these special moments in time. Donating their time and creativity to Wings to Fly Dance Company:
Thomas Winter
Sevin Bullwinkle
Leigh-Ann Etsy
Tom Baumker
Samara Shevlin
Ruth Shevlin
Dana Mcartney
Rose Eigelberger
Barbara Gallagher
Special thanks as well to Lightning Video for capturing Journey and Hope.
Thank You to Paul Shirley, who has saved the day taking video and photographs.
Press
Cleveland Clinic Martin Health
Therapist Offers THE GIFT OF DANCE
Hometown News
Hope | Photos Of The Week