Sara Brummel

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Sara J. Brummel. Sara's profound influence as a teacher, colleague, and artist has left an indelible mark on our community and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Sara Jeanette Brummel, 74 of Springfield, MO passed away the evening of May 11, 2024. She was born in Boise, Idaho, on June 6, 1949, to Melvin and Virginia Brummel (Jones). She is survived by her sister, Kathryn Ann Carpenter (Tom Carpenter) and their two children Kimberly Williams (Rod Williams) and their daughter Allison, Scott Carpenter (Cindy) and their children, Nicholas and Nathan. She pampered her sweet, fluffy cat, Bella, for nearly 20 years and had a love for Mexican food, rum-and-coke, hot tea with sugar, and iced tea with artificial sweetener. She loved solo road trips and group tours abroad, and during the pandemic, she embraced online "travel", while still maintaining her focus on
supporting local.
Chris Herr, a close colleague, remembers her as a true artist and teacher, sharing her knowledge and experience with generations of students who have become artists and teachers in their own right. Her influence as a teacher, colleague, and friend is profound and lasting, felt keenly by those who knew her and had the privilege of being part of her legacy. As a past Artistic Director of Springfield Ballet and throughout her 24-year collaboration at Missouri State University, Sara was known for her intellectual rigor and willingness to challenge herself and others. She was an avid learner and an advocate for critical thinking. Sara's rehearsal process was meticulous, deep, and generous. She balanced technique and expression, character development and movement. Her questions enriched what was made. She honored choreography and dancing by asking
what is it? Her questions and ability to communicate about choreography enriched the work of others, making her a valued collaborator.
She was a complex, unique individual with a wicked sense of humor and a deep commitment to her friends and students. Sara taught a variety of dance disciplines and choreographed, directed, and designed performances with unmatched dedication. A favored memory includes a time Inertia performed with equipment that few could negotiate, Sara magically created the perfect ambiance,
manipulating the light board with dexterity. Mind you, she never owned a cell phone. Sara's taste in
music was as varied as her dance styles, and her joy in exploring traditional to belly dancing was infectious.
Sara Brummel's legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through her teaching and artistry. May her memory be for a blessing.
Dance on, dear Sara. You will be profoundly missed.
A celebration of Sara's life will be held at 3 PM, June 6, 2024 (her birthday), in King's Way United
Methodist Church, Springfield, MO. Reception to follow.