In 2016, Jodie Gates was recognized as the "Most Influential" by the Orange County Register, celebrating her significant impact on the dance community.

This year featured an exceptional lineup of master classes, including sessions with Jodie Gates, LDF Artistic Director and Vice Dean of the USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance; Kyle Abraham from Abraham.In.Motion; and Lillian Barbeito of BODYTRAFFIC. Participants also had the opportunity to take master classes with Tara Keating of BalletX, Hope Boykin, Patrick Corbin, Thomas McManus, and Victor Quijada from RUBBERBAND Dance Group. This year highlighted the diverse talents and innovative approaches within the dance world, making it a memorable event for all involved!

The festival was held at the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach. The event featured professional dancers and students from the LA-based dance company Lula Washington and Irvine based Entity Contemporary Dance. Festival events also included three pre-show lectures and two free performances at the Laguna Art Museum. Master classes were held at the Laguna Beach High School and featured performances at The Laguna Playhouse.