Beck Center for the Arts announces the appointment of Melanie Szucs as Associate Director of Dance Education effective August 20, 2007. Szucs replaces long-time director, Lynda Sackett, who is retiring on August 31, 2007, after more than 40 years of service at Beck Center.

Szucs has been a dance instructor at the Beck Center since 1984 and is currently the Artistic Director for the Beck Center’s Dance Workshop. She has over 25 years of teaching experience and has instructed at many area dance studios. “The Dance Department has really grown since I’ve been with the Beck Center, both in talent and enrollment.” said Szucs, “I plan to continue to build upon this success.” In addition to her role as Associate Director, Szucs is excited to continue teaching dance classes at the Beck Center.

“I am very pleased that Melanie will be assuming the role of Associate Director of Dance Education,” commented Edward P. Gallagher, Beck’s Director of Education and Creative Arts Therapies, “She brings with her much talent, a lifetime of experience, a wealth of knowledge, and dedication to the program and its philosophy.”

Beck Center for the Arts offers professional theatrical productions along with comprehensive curriculum-based arts education in creative arts therapies, dance, music, theater, and visual arts, along with gallery exhibits featuring local and regional artists. Located at 17801 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood, Beck Center is just ten minutes west of downtown Cleveland. Convenient on-site parking is available. For more information about Beck’s Dance program, call (216) 521-2540 or visit www.beckcenter.org.