Helen Hithersay was an incredible pioneer in the San Diego community when she founded Creative Dance Theatre in 1958. Her passion for international folk dances from her native Poland was unparalleled in the area, and she followed it up with an inspiring book titled “Tales from the Old Country”, which captured memories, stories, and the dances. As the organization grew, it was renamed the “Clairemont Community Dance Workshop” and eventually the “San Diego Children’s Repertory Dance Theatre”. After a decade of growth, Hithersay retired in 1974 and embarked on a remarkable journey, walking across the continental United States. Her legacy of international folk dances, and her book of poetry and stories, will be remembered for years to come. Creative Dance Theatre continues to be an important cultural beacon and a leader in the San Diego dance community.