Interview with Lara Brannen conducted by Nancy McElroy. Created in 1978 by Lara Branen and Michael Geiger, BJDW celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2018 with Lara serving as co-director or director for all 40 years. BJDW provides an annual 2-week intensive summer dance workshop to train Colorado dancers in a wide range of jazz dance styles. Today, students receive diverse technique classes led by unique dance artists and repertory from these professional teachers. A commerical dance weekend, student choreographic opportunities, and auditions for the professional company (Interweave Dance Theatre) and cruise ships lines are offered.