The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is teaming up with Los Angeles Magazine to present “Center Stage: Mapping the Ecology of Dance in Los Angeles,” a dynamic discussion with both established and emerging leaders in Los Angeles’ dance world on May 17 at 9 a.m.

This two-part panel will explore the exciting and explosive growth of dance in Los Angeles in recent years and the influences that have made it possible. Admission is free, but reservations are required. This special event, taking place in advance of Dance USA’s 10th annual conference in downtown Los Angeles, will also be available  on The Wallis’ Facebook page.

Hosted by The Wallis’ Managing Director Rachel Fine, featured panelists include Emmy Award-winning actress and dancer Debbie Allen, Performing Arts Director for the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs Ben Johnson, The Wallis’ Artistic Director Paul Crewes and more. The conversation will be moderated by Marielle Wakim, arts and culture editor at Los Angeles Magazine.

“Los Angeles is entering a golden age of dance with an incredible breadth of quality and diverse new groundbreaking dance companies being established here alongside prominent dance schools, which are training a new generation of dancers and choreographers,” Fine said. “The city’s expanding dance culture and dynamic energy is drawing national and international attention. This event will delve into what’s fostering this expanding kinetic energy for dance in L.A.”

“There’s never been a more exciting time for dance in Los Angeles than right now,” Wakim added. “Unprecedented growth and collaboration among a variety of dance and arts organizations is fueled by presenting organizations eager to program dance, audiences and funders willing to support an eclectic range of innovative dance offerings and talented young dancers choosing to continue their educations at such outstanding institutions as USC’s Glorya Kaufman School of Dance and the Colburn School.”

Complimentary general admission tickets are available for reservation at thewallis.org/centerstage, by emailing tickets@thewallis.org or calling (310)746-4000.

The Wallis is located at 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd. For information, visit thewallis.org