Not only is Jonathan Stiles an incredibly talented dancer but he is also the producing director of a wonderful benefit performance called “Shut Up & Dance” put on by Pennsylvania Ballet. The annual show raises money for the Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance to feed patients with life threatening illnesses.

“In 1993, dancers of Pennsylvania Ballet were wondering what they could do to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. They realized the best thing they could do was “Shut Up & Dance.” Every year since, the dancers have partnered with MANNA in presenting this one-night-only performance. The dancers choreograph and rehearse each piece in their spare time in what is truly a labor of love for the community. “For 19 years, The Dancers of Pennsylvania Ballet have poured their heart and soul into this one-night-only performance,” said Richard Keaveney, CEO of MANNA. “Through this labor of love, MANNA clients receive the nourishment, care and counsel they need to improve their health and quality of life.”
- Emma Yasick, Brandywine Ballet dancer & blogger