Choreographer and dancer Lisa Linger’s ultimate goal is to inspire change. “I create pieces that are both abstract enough for personal interpretation, yet realistic enough so that there is obvious context and an educational message.”

As founder and director of Mental Health in Motion, Linger provides education, advocacy, and awareness around mental and social health topics in the Roanoke Valley and beyond. “The educational dance drops the information from head knowledge to heart knowledge,” says Linger. “Audience members retain these messages longer, creating a shift towards more empathic and effective responses to critical health issues.”