In the heart of downtown Eagle, the Eagle Performing Arts Center—known by locals as EPAC—is one of the Treasure Valley’s most impactful yet quietly powerful arts institutions. Under the direction of Elizabeth Keller, EPAC has become a place where young dancers grow into artists, community thrives, and the performing arts are elevated with purpose and professionalism.
A Legacy Passed Forward
Keller, a former principal dancer with Ballet Idaho and longtime member of Miami City Ballet, took over the school in 2020 from founders Jeff and Kathy Giese. But her connection to EPAC runs deeper. “I had been working with them since 2012,” she says. “The transition felt natural. Jeff and Kathy and I shared the same values—the belief in training strong, versatile dancers in a nurturing, non-commercialized environment.”
The Gieses remained on faculty until just last year, helping ensure a seamless handoff. “It was like a six-year success plan,” Keller says with a smile.
More Than Ballet
While EPAC is rooted in classical ballet, the training goes far beyond the barre. “Our strengths are definitely in ballet, but we also have an incredible tap and contemporary program,” Keller says. “Our tap instructor, Andrew Nemmer, moved here from New York and trained under Gregory Hines. His classes are phenomenal.”
Classes are offered for students from age 3½ through adult, with programs designed to train “the whole dancer.” Keller emphasizes versatility, expression, and a deep love for performance. “We’re not just building dancers—we’re building artists.”
Transforming Space, Inspiring Performance
In 2020, EPAC converted one of its studios into a black box theater, allowing the school to continue performing during the COVID pandemic. That space is now home to Eagle Theater Company, informal performances, and student showcases. “It was one of those moments where we knew we had to adapt,” Keller recalls. “Now, it’s a creative space we use all the time.”
Major productions—including EPAC’s beloved Nutcracker—are held at Boise State’s Special Events Center, a 435-seat venue known for its intimacy and high-caliber productions. “People come to our Nutcracker thinking it’s a professional company,” she says. “And we take that as a compliment.”
Idaho’s Premier Pre-Professional Ballet Company
EPAC is also home to Idaho Regional Ballet—the state’s premier pre-professional ballet company, with 35 dancers between ages 10 and 18. Dancers must be invited to audition, and those selected are given opportunities to train and perform at an elite level.
“We’re part of The Ballet Alliance, a national network of top pre-professional companies,” Keller explains. “Every year, our dancers attend the Ballet Alliance Festival—it’s not a competition but a festival of growth. They take classes all day and perform or watch their peers in the evening. There’s a strong focus on standards, development, and connection.”
Keller notes that many dancers from other studios often come to EPAC for that next level of training. “We’re kind of a finishing school. The proof is in the pudding—you see it in our performances.”
Upcoming Events
Then, on September 20, EPAC will host the Idaho Regional Ballet Fall Gala—a festive, elegant fundraiser held at the EPAC studio itself. The event features cocktail tables, lighting, catering by April Hale, a live auction, and an open bar. “It’s always been free to attend,” says Keller. “We want people to give because they believe in what we’re doing—not because they bought a ticket.”
Whether you’re enrolling your child in their first ballet class, supporting a young performer, or just curious about local culture, Eagle Performing Arts Center is a vibrant part of Eagle’s heart.
Learn more and register at www.epacdance.com
Follow on Instagram @epacdance
Fall Gala: September 20, 4–6 PM at EPAC
Nutcracker: December 19–21 at Boise State Special Events Center
