About the Project
Led by Angie Muzzy at Collegiate School in Richmond, VA, the Stacy Dudley and Angie Muzzy Dancers (Grades 5-9) present a dance project on ancestral land of the James River. This work uses choreographic practice to connect students with local waterways and community stewardship.
The Why
The James River has made significant recovery but remains threatened by industrial waste, sewage issues, habitat loss, and climate change. Protecting clean, accessible water requires sustained action by communities, government, and environmental groups. The project emphasizes clean, accessible drinking water and explores local impacts of growing technology infrastructure such as data centers and A.I. usage, noting Virginia’s high concentration of data centers and the pressure they place on water resources.
Collaboration & Education
The initiative is coordinated with the Powell Institute of Responsible Citizenship and the director of Sustainability, Sandra Marr. Through rehearsal and discussion, students learn how art can inform audiences about human-driven climate impacts and practical mitigation steps.
Performance and Community Engagement
Students in Grades 5-9 perform choreographies that translate research and local concerns into movement, inviting the community to reflect on stewardship of the James River and the importance of long-term conservation efforts.
Follow and Support
Connect with the program and follow updates:
- @collegiaterva
- @cougarsinthearts
- @sustainable_cougaRRRs
All activities take place on ancestral land noted as James River-Private Location, and aim to inspire ongoing community-led protection of local water resources.