About the Foundation
Building artists. Strengthening community. Since 1993.
We are a Paso Robles-based nonprofit dedicated to keeping the performing arts thriving across North San Luis Obispo County through high-quality productions, education, and purpose-driven performance experiences.
Our Mission
North County Dance & Performing Arts Foundation is dedicated to cultivating excellence in the performing arts while nurturing the personal and artistic growth of young performers. Through the production of high-quality performances, we provide dancers and artists with meaningful opportunities to build confidence, discipline, creativity, and a strong work ethic—skills that extend far beyond the stage.
Through educational outreach, community-centered performances, and youth development programs, we strive to make the performing arts accessible and enriching for individuals and families throughout North County. By fostering a supportive, inclusive environment, we empower young artists to express themselves, connect with their community, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Our Purpose
North County Dance & Performing Arts Foundation (NCDPAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping the performing arts thriving in North San Luis Obispo County. For more than 30 years, we’ve supported young artists through training, mentorship, and performance opportunities while creating experiences that shape not only strong performers, but strong people.
We are proud to be the organization behind the region’s beloved annual Nutcracker Ballet, and we support community dancers—including those of the Paso Robles Dance Collective—through performance opportunities, scholarships, and artistic development throughout the year.
Our History
NCDPAF was founded in 1993 by Cheryle Armstrong, who brought her love of classical ballet and the performing arts to Paso Robles. At the time, there were limited opportunities for dedicated classical ballet training and performance in Northern San Luis Obispo County. Determined to build what didn’t yet exist, Cheryle began the Paso Robles Chamber Ballet Company (now known as the Paso Robles Dance Collective) and launched what would become one of the most cherished arts traditions on the Central Coast: The Nutcracker.
Over the decades, NCDPAF has presented productions including Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, EPIC, Let It Be, and many more. These production bring high-quality performance to local audiences while offering young dancers the experience of professional-level productions.
