ODC Names Mia J. Chong Co-Artistic Director at Fall 2025 Gala

Beloved Bay Area dance company ODC/Dance made history on September 28 at di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art in Napa, announcing Mia J. Chong as co-artistic director during the company’s second annual Fall for Art fundraiser. Event Chair Ross Uchimura joined committee members Katie Colendich, Nancy Sakamoto DiSabato, Cecilia Fok and Rachael Goldberg in welcoming 200 guests dressed in rustic chic attire for an afternoon of performances overlooking di Rosa’s sculpture meadow, art installations and vineyards.

The surprise leadership announcement came from ODC/Dance Founder and Artistic Director Brenda Way, who described Chong as “the ideal candidate virtually hiding in plain sight” after a decade-long nationwide search. Chong will assume her new position at year’s end as the company prepares for its Taiwan tour. Guests enjoyed oysters on the half shell, passed hors d’oeuvres and an al fresco lunch with wines provided by Camino Wine Company. The live auction featured coveted experiences including a trip with ODC/Dance on tour to Taipei. Uchimura celebrated the community’s support, noting that the funds allow ODC/Dance to “continue as the leading voice of dance on the West Coast,” while supporting the Youth & Teen Program that nurtures the next generation of dancers.