DORA RAE VACTOR

Dora Rae Vactor is a visionary arts leader, choreographer, educator, and Founder of the Cleveland Dance Movement, whose decades-long commitment to dance and the performing arts has made a lasting impact throughout Northeast Ohio.

She currently serves as Secretary of the Board of Directors of the International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD) and is a current Board Member of Ohio Contemporary Ballet. She has previously served IABD as Treasurer and Executive Committee Member-at-Large. Her leadership experience also includes serving as Vice President of the Rainey Institute, Director of the Christine Buster Dance Ensemble, and Past President of the Bureau of Cultural Arts Advisory Board.

A gifted choreographer and educator, Dora Rae has taught modern dance and choreographed extensively throughout Cleveland and Akron. Her work has included dance ministries, school musical productions, community programs, and numerous cultural and performing arts events. She has also served as a production and stage manager for a variety of artists, organizations, and community events.

Her dedication to the arts and community has earned her the Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Award for Exceptional Choreography. She is also featured in the opening screen credits of the Drew Carey Show, filmed in Cleveland.

After retiring from Cuyahoga County Jobs and Family Services in 2020, Dora Rae continues to inspire, mentor, create, and advocate for the arts. Her legacy reflects a lifelong commitment to empowering artists, preserving culture, developing community, and creating opportunities through the transformative power of dance.