Posted: Monday, June 1, 2026
By: Noah Alatza, Chief Communications Officer

Four Evansville women who are members of the University of Evansville (UE) Silver Aces dance team are now training to perform in the National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C. as part of America's 250th anniversary celebration, a historic milestone honoring the nation's semiquincentennial.

The Evansville dancers were among just 36 performers selected nationwide for the prestigious opportunity.

Silver Aces is a senior dance and performance team operated through the Center for Innovation & Change in partnership with SWIRCA and other departments on campus. It has become a shining example of how movement and community engagement can improve health outcomes and reduce social isolation among older adults.

Since its launch, the Silver Aces have provided participants with opportunities to stay physically active, build friendships, and engage more deeply in the community through dance and performance. The team has already performed at numerous local events, including UE Aces basketball games, the popular 5K on the Runway, the Parkinson's Tulip Trot 5K and other community celebrations throughout the Tri-State region.

Now, the group is preparing for its biggest opportunity yet.

A select group of Silver Aces dancers auditioned for the prestigious America's Golden Dream Dancers, an elite performance group made up of women from across the country who perform all over the world. Three Silver Aces and their coach, Erin Lewis, were officially accepted. They travel to Washington D.C. from July 2 to 5, will dance on Constitution Avenue, and take part in many official events for America's 250, including possibly laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The women have been preparing as a team in Evansville, while also rehearsing virtually alongside the 32 other women representing communities from across the United States. The five-minute routine will be performed for 30 minutes as the Parade advances down Constitution Avenue. In addition, Silver Aces member and United Way of Southwestern Indiana President and CEO Amy Mangold, auditioned for and will also be dancing in the AGDD's Barcelona jazz and musical theatre performance in late July.

"This opportunity represents so much more than dance," said Lewis. "It's about showing that aging does not mean slowing down or stepping aside. These women prove every day that connection, movement, joy and purpose can transform lives. And to represent our community during America's 250th celebration is an incredible honor. We've also loved getting to know the other women across the country who share this joy for dance and performance. I hope any person reading this in our community who used to cheer, perform, dance or simply loves to move will join the Silver Aces."

One of the driving forces behind this opportunity is Silver Aces participant Elissa Bakke, who first discovered the audition opportunity and encouraged the team to pursue it. The remaining Silver Aces team, who are not traveling to D.C. are currently working to learn the routine as well and will perform after July 4 as part of local and regional America 250th Celebrations.

As the dancers continue training for the national performance opportunity, supporters are encouraged to follow the Silver Aces' journey, cheer on the team, and help celebrate this remarkable moment for Evansville and the University of Evansville community. Interview opportunities can be scheduled through Erin Lewis at el131@evansville.edu or 812-449-1044.