Last Updated on June 14, 2026 7:49 pm
BOONE / GRANITE FALLS — Appalachian Rhythm Clogging & Dance, the Boone-founded studio celebrating its 20th anniversary this summer, has been invited to perform in the National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C., as part of the United States’ historic 250th Anniversary Celebration on July 4, 2026.
The studio — which serves dancers from across the High Country and foothills regions through locations in Boone and Granite Falls — will represent North Carolina and Appalachian dance traditions on a national stage during one of the country’s most significant patriotic celebrations.
A 20th anniversary milestone
Appalachian Rhythm was founded in Boone in 2006 by Ashley Moseley while she was a freshman at Appalachian State University. For two decades, the studio has focused on preserving and promoting Appalachian clogging and dance through performance, education and community involvement.
Past performances have taken Appalachian Rhythm dancers to Disney World, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Montreal and most recently the 2024 Dance World Cup in Canada — where dancers earned Gold and Bronze awards and were chosen as the only team from the United States invited to perform in the Closing Ceremony Gala.
“This is such an incredible honor for our dancers and families,” Moseley said. “To be invited to represent Appalachian culture and our mountain community during America’s 250th celebration is something truly special. Clogging is such an important part of our heritage, and we are excited to share that tradition on a national stage.”
The dancers going to D.C.
The current list of dancers traveling to perform includes Ashley Moseley, Stella Cook, Rose Bauguess, Jonah Ramsey, Samantha Muller, Whitney Goddard, Delia Goddard, Elise Waters, Shelly Wainscott Wallin, Melanie Hollar, Grace Shore, Tatum Arnold, Isabel McInnis, Cheyenne Rhoney, Addison Wyant, Victor Orego and Lindsey Spence.
“It is an honor to be invited to the ultimate celebration of the American Dream — faith, family, tradition and freedom,” said dancer Samantha Muller. “Appalachian Rhythm holds these values near and dear to our hearts. We are so excited to share this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with everyone this July 4th!”
Community sponsorship
The studio is currently preparing for the Washington, D.C. performance and working to raise funds to help offset travel expenses for participating dancers. Community sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and supporters interested in helping the dancers attend the event.
More information is available at apprhythm.com or by contacting Ashley Moseley at apprhythm@gmail.com or (828) 719-8228.
