2014 ACDFA South-Central Region Conference University of Texas at Austin Teachers, Biographies and Classes Adjudicators
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2014 ACDFA South-Central Region Conference
University of Texas at Austin
Teachers, Biographies and Classes
Adjudicators
Susan Hadley was a principal dancer with the acclaimed Mark Morris Dance Group for whom she
danced original roles in L'Allegro, Dido and Aeneas, and Mythologies. She also performed in Senta
Driver's company HARRY, and in Meredith Monk's opera Quarry. She served as Rehearsal Director
for Baryshnikov's White Oak Dance Project, Mark Morris' The Office, and the Morris production of
Platee at the Royal Opera and Lincoln Center. Ms. Hadley has created new work for Hubbard Street
Dance Chicago, Repertory Dance Theatre, American Repertory Ballet, BalletMet, Ballet Pacifica,
Ballet Memphis, Contemporary American Theatre Company, OSUDance and Drums Downtown.
She has received multiple choreographic fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts,
The New York Foundation for the Arts, and The Ohio Arts Council. Her work has also been
supported by the Wexner Center for the Arts, Greater Columbus Arts Council, New York State
Council for the Arts, and Choo San Goh and H. Robert Magee Foundation. Hadley is a Professor in
the renowned Department of Dance at The Ohio State University.
Advanced Contemporary Dance Technique
This class will examine movement phrases deeply, exploring them as a source for movement
invention and choreographic development. Students: expect to be active participants in the
creative process.
Rennie Harris - A pioneer of Hip-hop dance Theater Harris brought "social" dances to the concert
stage. Alongside Princess Grace Kelly, he was voted one of the most influential people in the last
one hundred years of Philadelphia history. Compared to Alvin Ailey and Bob Fosse he was
awarded 3 Bessie Awards, 4 Alvin Ailey Awards, Herb Alpert Award and nominated for an
Lawrence Olivier Award (UK). Recipient of the Governors Artist of the year Award, the USA artist
award for choreography, and voted Philadelphia’s Creative Ambassador. 2010 he received an
honorary doctorate in the Arts and Humanities (Bates College) and 2013 received an Honorary
Doctorate in the Fine Arts from Columbia College (Chicago). As an Ambassador of President
Obama’s cultural exchange program Dance Motion USA in the Middle East, which was lead by
former Secretary of the State Hilary Clinton, Dr. Rennie Harris is – it’s Hip-hop leading ambassador.
House Dance
A Hip Hop warm-up followed by “House” dance
James Sutton, dancer, teacher, and choreographer, was for fourteen years an Associate Arts
Professor in Dance at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University and is currently Ballet
Master and Choreographer for New York Theatre Ballet. He appeared as principal dancer with
Houston Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, and DANCERS among others, and his choreographic
commissions span all aspects of theater and dance. A frequent guest instructor across the US, he
taught for thirteen summers at the American Dance Festival. Rehearsal Director for Ballet
Hispanico of New York and company teacher for the Metropolitan Opera Ballet, he has also worked
in Russia, Japan, Australia, and Sweden, among other venues across Europe and Asia. Previously
an Associate Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and teacher at the Juilliard School in
New York, he is also a contributing writer for Ballet Review.
Int/Adv Ballet
The class is in formal ballet style based on a blending of Russian, French and Danish
traditions emphasizing musicality, clarity, economy of motion, and a model of anatomical
integrity and geometric simplicity.ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Guest Artists
Mary John Frank is a New York based choreographer, filmmaker, and dancer. She creates dance
for commercials, music videos, the web, and mixed media stage works. Mary John has a Master’s in
Dance from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts where she received the Dance Video Award, providing
her with a full year’s scholarship to the program. She is currently a New Media Fellow for the Dance
Films Association and The Dance on Camera Festival at Lincoln Center, and has choreographed
content for New York City Ballet, American Apparel, Bonnaroo, and Sony. Prior to living in New
York, Mary John spent seven years working in film production in Los Angeles at studios including
Paramount Vantage, Lionsgate, Miramax, and Warner Bros. She is now combining her two favorite
art forms, dance and film, and has recently created her own company, Reel Dance. Aside from
creating dance for camera, Mary John also shoots and edits music videos and live performances. She
looks forward to sharing what she has learned about directing, choreographing, and camera work
with ACDFA. More on her website www.maryjohnfrank.com.
Reel Dance: The Austin Film Project
Let’s make a movie! In this three-hour workshop you will be creating a short dance film. The
class will be lead by filmmaker and choreographer, Mary John Frank, and will involve 90-
minute creation period, followed by ninety minutes of filming the work. After the class, Mary
John will edit the footage and provide participants with footage for their own personal use.
Segments of the film project will also be shown during the ACDFA conference. Students will
need to commit to the full double-session on Thursday at 9:00 am.
Dance on Camera: Past, Present & Future
Whether you are filming a rehearsal, a performance, or creating your own dance film or
music video, filming plays a significant role in the art of dance. Come and meet filmmaker
and choreographer, Mary John Frank, and watch some of the most compelling dance on
camera work to date. The class will also include a discussion about filming your own work,
camera angles and placement, and methods of archiving and presenting your work. Mary
John will show some of her recent dance on camera work as well and share what she has
learned in the process of creating dance for the camera.
Dance for Camera Student Work
MJ Frank will host and facilitate a showing of student dance-for-the-camera work
Patricia Lent was a member of the Merce Cunningham Dance Company from 1984 to 1993, and
White Oak Dance Project from 1994 to1996. She joined the faculty of the Merce Cunningham Studio
in 1988, where she taught technique classes and repertory workshops for more than twenty
years. She has staged Cunningham’s work for numerous schools and companies,
including Fabrications for Ballet de Lorraine, Scramble for Repertory Dance Theater, Duets for
American Ballet Theatre, Channels/Inserts for Lyon Opera Ballet, Beach Birds for North Carolina
School of the Arts, and Roaratorio for MCDC’s Legacy Tour. In 2009, Lent was named a trustee of
the Merce Cunningham Trust, and currently serves as the Trust’s Director of Licensing. She
continues to teach, stage, and conduct workshops in her capacity at the Trust.
2ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Lent continued:
Movement in Time and Space: An Introduction to Cunningham Technique®
Participants will be introduced to the technique developed by Merce Cunningham to train
dancers for his company. The session will begin with a warm-up designed to promote
rhythmic accuracy, clarity of form, and spatial acuity. Participants will then learn movement
phrases drawn from Cunningham’s work, and be coached to dance the material with
precision and spirit.
Choosing Chance: An Introduction to Chance Procedures in the Work of Merce
Cunningham
Participants will be introduced to Merce Cunningham’s use of chance procedures as a
choreographic tool. During the session, participants will be guided to experiment with
chance procedures to invent and sequence their own original movement. At the conclusion
of the session, participants will be invited to reflect on the impact of this approach on their
own creative process.
Dances for Everyone: Merce Cunningham’s Field Dances
Field Dances was choreographed by Merce Cunningham in 1963. The structure and
performance of the dance are indeterminate: it can be done by any number of dancers, last
any length of time, and be performed in any space. The material for the dance includes a
series of simple movement phrases incorporating everyday movement like walking, running,
skipping, falling, sitting, and leaning. The instructions for the phrases are both precise and
open-ended, offering dancers opportunities to make choices while performing.
Cunningham’s subtitle for the dance, “Dances for Everyone,” refers to his intention that the
choreography can be done by people with varying levels of dance training and experience.
This material will be incorporated into the special Saturday performance event:
Cunningham MinEvent UT. ALL STUDENTS AND FACULTY INVITED TO PARTICIPATE.
Cunningham MinEvent UT: An Informal Showing for Dancers and Observers
A MinEvent is an uninterrupted sequence of excerpts drawn from the work of Merce
Cunningham. During a January 2014 residency, former MCDC dancer Jean Freebury staged
a 7-minute MinEvent for fifteen UT dancers, using material drawn from three Cunningham
dances: Change of Address, Cargo X, and Tune In/Spin Out. During today’s session,
participants will learn and rehearse three excerpts from Cunningham’s Canfield (the material
will have been introduced during Cunningham Technique classes earlier in the conference).
This new material will then be interwoven with the material already known to the UT
dancers to create a longer MinEvent incorporating a larger group of dancers. Conference
participants will be invited to watch a one-time-only performance of the result!
The session will begin by teaching several of the movement phrases and explaining the
instructions governing how these phrases may be performed in the space. Participants will
be given the opportunity to explore and experiment with the material, and devise ways of
interacting with fellow participants. The workshop will culminate in a group performance of
Field Dances.
3ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Faculty
Charles O. Anderson (Fac/U of Texas-Austin) is a tenured Associate Professor of African Diaspora Dance and at the
University of Texas at Austin. He earned his BA in Dance from Cornell University and his MFA in Dance from Temple University.
While living in New York, Anderson worked with such noted choreographers as Ronald K. Brown, Mark Dendy, Sean Curran, and
Miguel Gutierrez. Prior to moving to Austin, Anderson resided in Philadelphia where he founded dance theatre X, his critically
acclaimed afro-contemporary dance company that was named one “25 to Watch” by Dance Magazine.
Advanced Afro-Contemporary Dance:
This workshop focuses on combining elements of dance styles ranging from contemporary/modern dance to Pan-African
techniques to dialogue about issues pertaining to the human spirit and identity in performance. The class includes a fusion
of contemporary and African warm-up exercises, followed by a rep portion which focuses on discovering ways to color
movement dynamic in an effort to challenge the dancer's artistic landscape and approach to the art of dance.
Carisa Armstrong (Fac/TX A&M University) received her undergraduate degree from Texas State and her MFA from Case
Western University in Ohio. Ms. Armstrong is certified in Pilates Matwork and is an Associate Instructor of the Equipment work.
Currently she is a Clinical Associate Professor at Texas A&M University where she teaches modern dance technique, Pilates
Apparatus, choreography, dance wellness and dance history. She also conducts dance science research at the University.
Advanced/ Int. Modern Dance
This class will use floor work and inversions to challenge the abilities of the dancers. The class material is driven by multiple
techniques and is varied in movement styles.
Intermediate Pilates
This class will focus on some of the more challenging mat exercises in Pilates. Pilates experience is recommended.
Tiffanee Arnold (Fac/Collin College) is Chair of the Dance Department and a Professor of Dance at Collin College. She earned
an M.F.A. in dance performance and choreography from Texas Woman's University. Tiffanee has received many awards for
excellence in teaching, scholarships for service to the college and has choreography commissioned by various high schools,
universities and professional dance companies. Tiffanee is currently a dancer with Elledanceworks Dance Company in Dallas. She is
also the South Central Regional Board Member for the American College Dance Festival Association.
Intermediate Jazz
This class will include intricate rhythms, intense spatial explorations & energetic movement. Class will focus on quick
changes of direction with increased locomotor movement.
Ellen Bartel (Fac/U of Texas-Austin) received her B.A. in Liberal Arts from S.U.N Y Potsdam in 1993 and in 2012 her M.F.A. in
Dance at the University of Texas. Ellen has created nearly 30 new dance works performed nearly 60 improvisations, 24 one minute
dances, spearheaded many community dance festivals and co- founded the Austin Independent Choreographers. She has
choreographed for T. V. commercials, theater, fashion shows, as well as Performance Art events, and has collaborated with many.
Ellen's choreography has been shown in many venues in Austin, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Brooklyn NY. Ellen has been
called a Dance Mobilizer a Dance Phenomenon, Fortunate 500, Best Dance Concert and Best Choreography nominations for Critics Table
Award, and numerous #10 Top Ten Dance Events.
Improv/choreo:
I will offer a method to making dances focusing on duet making and dancer derived movement to add to your dancer tool
kit. In my opinion the road to choreography begins with some or all of the following: movement improvisation (alone or
with others), written and mental imagery, experimentation of all kinds, artifacts/objects to support concepts, and other
people to collaborate with.
Andrea Beckham (Fac/U of Texas-Austin), choreographer, dancer, educator. Longtime participant in the repertory ensemble,
Sharir Dance Company, additionally has performed with Wilson’s Tallulah Dance in Seattle and on tour, with Jones/Zane Dance
Company in New York, with numerous others, and developed new work with her own pick-up company, Andrea Beckham
Collaborative Dance. Presenting choreography since 1989 in the U.S., Mexico, Taiwan, Europe, and her new media explorations with
Yacov Sharir in Holland, Portugal, Israel and China, Andrea teaches dance and runs the Pilates-evolved Laboratory at the University
of Texas at Austin, where she received the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award.
Pilates-Evolved Floorwork
Pilates-Evolved Floorwork teaches exercises and uses imagery to investigate a mind/body practice of efficient alignment,
core strengthening, movement re-education and execution to enhance movement expressivity in performance
4ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Diane Cahill Bedford (Fac/ San Jacinto College South) serves as Dance Professor at San Jacinto College South. She holds an
M.F.A. in Dance Performance and Choreography (2010) and a B.F.A. in Dance and English Literature (2003) from Florida State
University. Her choreography has been presented by the WestFest Dance Festival in NYC, Brazos Contemporary Dance Festival,
Fieldworks, The Dance Gathering, Fort Wayne Ballet, and Tallahassee Ballet. Diane has performed with Jana Hicks Repertory in NYC
and in works choreographed by Jawole Zollar, Gerri Houlihan, and Terry Creach. Diane has taught for FSU, Charleston Ballet
Theatre, Fort Wayne Ballet, New England Ballet Theatre, and Ithaca Ballet.
Finding the Circle: Modern Dance - Level: Int.
Modern dance technique focused on how we direct energy into the sphere in space surrounding our bodies. With an
emphasis on finding the circles all around us, we will explore the connection of head to tail, weight transfers, use of focus
and directing flow into space. Through a series of warm-ups and exercises moving across the floor, the class will challenge
the ability of the dancer to use momentum, speed, and strength from the body while releasing muscular tension. Come find
the circles all around you as we deepen into the floor, invert movement, fall, recover, and flow!
Christine Bergeron (Fac/TX A&M) received her BA from the University of Akron and her MFA from Florida State University.
Ms. Bergeron is certified in Pilates Matwork and is an Associate Instructor of the Equipment work. Currently she is the Director of the
Dance Program at Texas A&M University where she teaches modern dance technique, Pilates Apparatus, choreography, pedagogy
and dance production. She also conducts dance science research where she looks at the effectiveness of Pilates training on dancers.
The Pilates Core -Level: All
Working the core through Pilates.
Anne Blasdel (Fac/U of Central OK) has taught at UCO since l989, teaching all levels of ballet technique as well as pointe,
variations and teaching method. She has choreographed in a variety of styles and she has restaged original choreography from ballets
such as Le Corsaire by Marius Petipa. Anne danced professionally with Colorado Concert Ballet, The Fort Worth Ballet, and Ballet
Oklahoma under the Artistic Directorship of Edward Villella. She was trained extensively in the Cecchetti method, studied at the
School of American Ballet in New York City, and earned her BFA in Ballet from Texas Christian University.
Intermediate Ballet
An intermediate level ballet class emphasizing clean technique and greater understanding of correct muscle usage while
doing some fun, dancey combinations.
Alicia Carlin (Grad student/Sam Houston State U) took her first ballet class at age three in Okinawa, Japan, later trained in
classical ballet at the Payne Academy of Ballet, and performed with The Woodlands Ballet Theatre. After earning a BFA in Dance
Performance from Sam Houston State University in 2006, Alicia danced professionally with the Kista Tucker Dance Company, The
Houston Grand Opera, and Blue Lapis Light. Currently, Alicia is pursuing an MFA in Dance as well as instructing aerial classes at
SHSU. Alicia is also a company member of Vault, which recently toured to New Mexico, Ecuador, and Ireland for the Irish Aerial
Dance Festival.
The Ultimate Hollow Body Warm Up - Level: All
This warm up was originally put together for my aerial classes but I have found that I never feel totally warm for any class
or performance with out it. It will target your whole body, and how to connect to your core through conditioning exercises
as well as stretches. Not only will it warm you up but it will improve your strength and balance.
What Does it Mean? - Level: All
A presentation on how to break out of the cliché circus tricks and use Aerial Apparatus as a tool for meaning making.
Darrell Cleveland danced professionally with Top 10 recording artists Toni Braxton and En Vogue before spending eight
seasons dancing with Dallas Black Dance Theatre. Now one of Dallas' busiest jazz instructors and choreographers, Darrell was
recently awarded "Best Choreographer" at the 2010 PULSE Convention Southwest Region. Darrell's choreography credits include
work for Dallas Summer Musicals, The Inaugural Brinker International Lecture Series, Texas Lottery commercials, Lyric Stage
productions and Regional Dance America Conference. As a Master Teacher, Darrell has taught at festivals and conferences, and his
outreach work includes going into the DISD school system and introducing disadvantaged children to the world of dance.
Modern Fusion - Level: Int./Adv.
This class is a fusion of Horton- based modern, classic and contemporary jazz with elements of urban hip- hop. The
movement qualities produced by this integration of styles will increase range of motion, clarity of lines and initiation, and
facilitate in developing virtuosic performance skills.
Hannah Cole (Fac/New Mex State U) - With more than 20 years as a professional Ballroom, Latin and Swing dance performer,
competitor and teacher, Hannah has experienced all aspects of the world of DanceSport. She has taught thousands of students,
trained teachers and helped open several dance studios. An Ohio Star Ball Rising Star Smooth finalist, Hannah has enjoyed great
success including numerous top teacher awards. Certified by ISTD, Terpsichore and DVIDA in the Standard, Latin, Smooth &
Rhythm styles, Hannah is also a regional examiner for DVIDA certifying teachers around the country. Her technical precision,
engaging vitality and boundless enthusiasm make Hannah a joy to dance with.
Beautiful Bolero - Level: All
Often called “the Cuban dance of love,” the Bolero combines the fluid grace of the waltz with the rhythmic passion of the
Rumba. In this presentation, you will master the basic actions as well as learn a short routine to give you a full experience of
the beautiful Bolero.
Step, Swing, Sway, Shape, Smile - Level: All
Gain mastery of the five s’s and bring power, grace and volume to your Ballroom dancing. Learn a short Waltz
combination and see how they work.
5ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Teresa Cooper (Fac/U of North TX) - B.S., M.A., in Dance, Drama, and Rehabilitation- University of North Texas, Intermediate
Professional Teaching Certification, Cecchetti Classical Ballet. Ms. Cooper has taught at the University of North Texas since 1985. She
also teaches at A Time To Dance Studio in Corinth, and is vice chairman of the Cecchetti (Ballet) Southwest Committee. She has
choreographed and performed at international, regional, and local venues on theatrical stages, conference stages, and in churches.
Ms. Cooper a board member of CORPS de Ballet International traveled to Paris for the 2013 Teacher Intensive.
Ballet Imagery - Level: Int./Adv.
This is an intermediate/advanced Ballet class using imagery in learning adagio and petite allegro.
Dance of the Heart - Level: All
A movement based class dealing with spiritual matters. This will have improvisation, as well as choreographed movement.
This is taught from a Christian perspective.
Anna Corvera (Fac/Casper College) currently teaches Modern, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Composition, and Improvisation at Casper
College in Wyoming. She holds an MFA from The College at Brockport and a BFA from the University of Illinois as well as trained at
The Ailey School. She has choreographed commercials for Coca Cola, a music video for Atlantic Records, and presented work at
multiple festivals and concerts. She has worked with Bill Evans, Darwin Prioleau, Telly Fowler, and Cheryl Johnson, among others.
She has also performed with the St. Louis MUNY Opera, St. Louis Cultural Flamenco Society, Six Flags, The Lucky Artist Theater
Company, and Donald Trump.
Tap & Body Percussion
In this class we will use our entire body as a musical instrument. We will be dancers and musicians simultaneously as we
explore old rhythms and create new rhythms together. The class will consist of a warm up, improvisation/composition
exercises, and choreography.
Tina Curran (Fac/ U of Texas-Austin) - Director of the Language of Dance Center (USA). She has her BFA in Dance from The
Juilliard School, MFA in Choreographic Theory and Practice from Southern Methodist University, and Ph.D. in Dance Education
from New York University. She co-directs the BFA in Dance Studies at UT Austin leading to Texas dance teacher certification and
she serves on the faculty of the Dance Education Laboratory at the 92nd Street Y - Harkness Dance Center in New York City.
Creating with Dynamics- Level: All
The class explores dynamics for creative possibilities and performance expression.
Shelley Cushman (Fac/U of North TX) MA (MFA equivalent from UCLA in 1975), LMT, NCMTB, Professor at the University
of North Texas for 35 years, a Massage Therapist since 1986 and a prolific choreographer with well over 170 works. She performed
with the Sara Rudner Dance Ensemble and the Theatre Vanguard Improvisational Company in Hollywood, California. Her work, En
I Me, was selected to be performed in the 2008 National College Dance Festival in NYC. Among her professional research and
teaching interests is the investigation into the fusion of bodywork and performance to create clarity and purpose in the body. She
was awarded the NDA 2010 University Dance Educator of the year award.
Release and Clarity Through Soft Tissue Manipulation - Level: All
This session will present therapeutic massage techniques to create more space, balance, and enhance the feeling of center in
the body. We will focus on areas where gravity creates tension in the body. Participants need to be willing to touch and be
touched.
Moving to Let Go - Level: All
This session will focus on imagery and movement that creates relaxation in the body. Some improvisational elements will
be explored.
Reaching Those Hurting Areas - Level: All
This session will focus on tension areas identified by the participants. Massage techniques will be presented to help those
areas release. Participants need to be will to touch and be touched.
Natasha Davison (Fac/U of Texas) is highly experienced in musical theatre having worked both domestically and
internationally with such luminaries as Rob Marshall, Kathleen Marshall, Matt West, Anthony Van Laast, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber,
Michael Peters, Dee Dee Woods, Ben Vereen, and Hymie Rogers. She has been featured in musicals, television, film, radio,
commercials and music videos. Career highlights include the national tour of Cats("Victoria"), German premiere and cast recording of
Disney’sBeauty and the Beast and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, as well as the MGM television series Fame. Her favorite
performing moment was dancing next to Gene Kelly to Singing in the Rain in an NBC television special.
Broadway Jazz
Ever considered The Great White Way? Learn original and iconic choreography from some of Broadway's most celebrated
productions! From Bob Fosse's "Chicago" and Michael Bennett's "A Chorus Line" to Gillian Lynne’s “Cats”, get a taste of
musical theatre dance in context.
6ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Rainy Demerson (Fac/ El Paso Comm C) MA Dance Education, NYU BA World Arts and Cultures/Dance, UCLA. Rainy
Demerson taught Dance and Yoga throughout New York City in after-school programs before earning her NY State teaching license
and spearheading an Intercultural Dance program at MS 267 in Brooklyn. She taught at Lindenwood University and is currently an
Assistant Professor at El Paso Community College in Texas. Her articles have been published in JODE and JEDS. Dedicated to
gaining a first-hand understanding of culture in context, Rainy has studied dance in Indonesia, Cuba, Brazil and Senegal. She has
produced her contemporary choreography in Senegal and in New York.
Dances of Brazil – Level: All
This workshop will introduce student to three popular dance forms in Brazil: Candomblé, Samba Reggae, and Samba. Each
dance is unique and has roots in West African aesthetics, cultural practices, and movement vocabulary. Experience beautiful
music, percussive footwork, and dynamic poly-rhythms in your body!
Yoga and Meditation for Dancers – Level: All
This workshop will introduce meditation techniques to help respond to stress, prepare for performance, and build self-
confidence. We will also practice poses and movements focusing on strengthening and healing muscle groups most
neglected or overused by dancers.
David Deveau (Fac/Sam Houston State U) is a freelance lighting designer in the Houston area where he is currently in his
fourth season with NobleMotion Dance. Mr. Deveau was recently in New York at the Joyce Theater with the Dominic Walsh Dance
Theater as part of Ballet 6.0. This is his third year to work with the Dance Gallery Festival (Texas) and his second with the festival in
New York. He currently collaborates with Hope Stone Dance, Revolve Dance Company, & Urban Souls. He holds a full time position
as technical/lighting director as well as an adjunct position (Dance & Technology, Graduate Level Dance Production) within the Sam
Houston State University Dance Department.
Absolute Design: An Updated Theory on the Collaborative Role of a Lighting Designer Within the Choreographic
Process – Level: All
Absolute Design is a collaborative process utilized by a lighting designer and choreographer to achieve the maximum
artistic version of their work. The proposed theory is to support an updated perspective on how lighting design and
choreography can occur simultaneously through active participation amongst educated collaborators. The presentation will
be presented alongside visual representation of the theory.
Miko Doi-Smith (Fac/ Austin community) originally from southern California, began dancing while attending the University
of Hawaii. She has performed nationally and internationally with various choreographers and companies including, Dance Theatre X,
Ralph Lemon, Philadanco, Ballet X, Makeda Thomas, Kate Watson-Wallace/Anonymous Bodies and Tania Isaac. She has taught yoga
for over 15 years including Bates College Dance Festival and Guong Dong Modern Dance Festival. She currently resides in Austin.
Yoga: movement exploration and play
Using traditional and non-traditional yoga approaches and borrowing from other movement disciplines to explore stability,
mobility and recovery concepts, this class will draw from yoga but take it off the mat. Moving through space will allow us to
improve and strengthen our weaknesses while having fun.
Susan Douglas Roberts (Fac/ Texas Christian U) Professor of Dance at TCU, is the artistic director of wild goose chase. She
is a dance maker, teacher, curator, community builder, advisor and traveler. Her work has been presented across the USA – most
recently in concert with the VONHOWARDPROJECT at NYLiveArts – and in Mexico, Central and South America, and Taiwan. She
has been invited to present her new work, Spine, in Angers (France) at the Centre de Danse Contemporaine in July, 2104. Recent
honors include Fulbright Specialist Awards to Taipei National University of the Arts (Taiwan) and the Universidad Rafael Landívar
(Guatemala). Susan is the Secretary of ACDA. www.wildgoosechasedance.org
Moving our Community
This experience is for South Central faculty and guest faculty; it is designed as a means to move together as artists and
teachers.
Marietta Drummond (Musician/ U of Texas-Austin) Marietta Drummond has been the music coordinator for the department
of dance at the University of Texas for the past 15 years, arriving in Texas from New York City where she was a staff accompanist at
Dance Theatre of Harlem. While in New York City she was an accompanist at City College of New York , Steps, Broadway Dance,
Dance Space and Perrydance. She has also been an accompanist at Ballet Austin for the past 16 years. She has trained many students
and pianists to become dance accompanists.
Shate’ Edwards (Grad student/Sam Houston State U) is a native of Houston, Texas. She received her BA from Spelman College
in Atlanta, GA, and is currently preparing to complete her MFA in the dance department at SHSU. After college, she spent four years
in Los Angeles, where she trained under some of the industry’s top choreographers. She also spent three months in Shanghai
performing and teaching with members of ABDC Season 6 winners, I.aM.mE. In addition to attending SHSU, Shate’ also
choreographs and performs throughout the city of Houston, and she loves sharing her love for urban dance styles with her students.
Fierce Femme Hip-Hop – Level: All
Feminine stylized hip-hop class
Swag Hip-Hop – Level: All
Feminine and masculine hip-hop styles combined to create to softer side of swag.
7ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Shawn Ellison (Musician/ U of Texas-Austin) has worked as a musician in Austin, Texas since 1982. He is a pianist, but has
also performed as a composer, arranger, bandleader, organist, vocalist, musical director, and dance class accompanist. Mr. Ellison
often performs as a soloist, but is equally comfortable performed with a duo, trio, quartet, quintet, or big band. He has been
privileged to share the stage with Cat Anderson, Slide Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Frank Gorshin, and Phyllis Diller. In 1985, his
original dance suite “Texas” was performed at the University of Texas’ Bass Concert Hall. In 1986, he was asked by the Austin Music
Umbrella to perform some of his original compositions in a composers’ concert at the Dougherty Arts Center.
Anna Marie Ewert-Pittman (Fac/Brookhaven College) received a BFA in dance performance from Southern Methodist
University and a MFA in Performing Arts-Dance at the University of Wisconsin/Milwaukee. She has taught, choreographed and
performed for many schools, companies, independent choreographers and venues. She is currently adjunct faculty at several colleges
and has been the Artistic Director of Ewert & Company since 2000.
Modern Technique – Level: Int./Adv.
This class will be an eclectic mix of different modern movement styles. Class will progress from warm up to across the floor
and end with a combination.
Angela Falcone (Grad student/Texas Woman’s U) Houston native, was a World Famous Kilgore College Rangerette, holding
the positions of Swingster and Captain from 2007-2009. As a Rangerette, Angela performed at the Black Tie and Boots Ball for
President Barack Obama. After Kilgore, she attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she graduated with her B.F.A. in
Dance in 2012. Angela currently attends Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas, where she is pursuing her M.F.A. in Dance.
Int./Adv. Contemporary Jazz
This class will consist of a contemporary jazz warm up and stretch alongside center and across the floor progressions
including directional pirouette combinations, gymnastic-like groundwork, and leaps inspired from “So You Think You Can
Dance.” Specialty leaps and groundwork will be introduced and broken down as progressions to help achieve the new
movements. It will culminate with a convention-like fierce jazz phrase that could be modified for any level of dancer. Bring
your jazz shoes, socks, or just your bare feet!
Roxanne Gage (Fac/Austin Community C) - Alumni of The University of Texas Dance Department. Sharir Dance Company
member. Performed in works by Yacov Sharir, Jose Luis Bustamante, Heywood “Woody” McGriff, Sondra Lomax, Doug Varone,
Ohad Naharin, Senta Driver, Llory Wilson & Carolyn Pavlik. Performed with the Andrea Beckham Collaborative Dance
Company. Dance instructor, choreographer and Nationals Judge for MA Dance. Former Kilgore College Rangerette Lieutenant and
“Swingster”. Worked with Sandra Bullock as assistant choreographer for the pageant section in “Miss Congeniality”. Rehearsal
director for Kathy Dunn Hamrick Dance Company. Adjunct faculty member for the Dance Department at Austin Community
College.
Contemporary Jazz – Level: Int./Adv.
A full-body movement class that integrates Jazz, ballet, and modern dance techniques.
Ann Gavit (Fac/New Mexico State U) has been on the dance faculty at New Mexico State University since 2000. She is currently
pursuing her MA in teaching with an emphasis in Dance at NMSU. She is the director of the Pan American Dance Institute. Ann was
a principal dancer with International Dance Theater, Contemporary Dance Theater and Ballet Chrysalis of El Paso, TX and a soloist
with Denton Civic Ballet. She has taught ballet for over 25 years in the college and private setting. She was the artistic director and
choreographer for Ballet du Couer of El Paso and has choreographed works for NMSU.
Ballet Through Imagery – Level: Int./Adv.
Int/Adv Ballet with an emphasis on finding improved technique and artistry through imagery.
Elizabeth Gillaspy (Fac/Texas Christian U) is a dance educator and choreographer whose contemporary ballets have
premiered internationally in Japan (Hiroshima), Taiwan (Taipei), South Korea (Seoul), Bulgaria (Sofia), and nationally including with
the Orlando Ballet under the direction of the late Fernando Bujones. Critics have noted her work as “skillfully structured”, “visually
stunning”, and “poetic”. She regularly choreographs for Regional Dance America companies and for competitors in the Youth
America Grand Prix and International Ballet Competition (Jackson). At TCU she has been honored with the College of Fine Arts and
the Deans’ Teaching Awards, Mortar Board Preferred Professor, Wassenich Mentoring Award nomination, and the National Dance
Association’s College/University Dance Educator of the Year.
Contemporary Ballet Class – Level: Int./Adv.
A ballet technique class focused on the exploration of the physical territories of the academic vocabulary. The experiences
offered in this class are intended to inspire contemporary investigation of the hallmarks of classical ballet.
Timithy Holecek (Grad student/Sam Houston State U) graduated from New Mexico State University with a BA in Dance
Performance and Production where he worked with several international guest choreographers. Currently, he is attending Sam
Houston State University and is seeking to complete his MFA in Dance. Timithy is a founding member of Nicolay Dance Works. He
has also worked as a guest artist for Noble Motion Dance in their Fall concert of 2013, “Collide.”
Modern – Level: Int.
In this class we will explore moving through our smallest and largest kinesphere with a focus on gestural and abstract
movement and an exploration of effort value.
8ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Grace Holmes (Fac/U of Texas-Austin) - Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, she began her ballet training with Audrey Maduell,
Lelia Haller and Harvey Hysell. She was a soloist with New Orleans Ballet, San Francisco Ballet and Birmingham Royal Ballet,
England. Her repertoire includes over 100 ballets spanning both classical and modern genres. She has created roles with
choreographers of international fame and has performed at major theaters across the globe. She was Education Officer for
Birmingham Royal Ballet and the Ballet Education Manager for the Royal Opera House, London, England. She is also ballet faculty
for Tapestry Dance Company Academy, and St. Andrew’s Episcopal High School.
Intermediate Ballet
Combining elements of Balanchine, British and Russian techniques, this ballet class is an intermediate level technique class
that brings together classical steps and theories, with current theory and practice. It is taught in a relaxed atmosphere and is
geared towards both classical and contemporary dancers.
John Hopkins (Musician/Texas Christian U) has accompanied ballet, modern, contact improvization, university level and
master classes since 2003. Taught Music for Dancers as adjunct faculty at TCU. Worked with all TCU faculty and many guest artists.
Composed and performed original works for student and faculty projects. Directed African Music Program at Trinity Lutheran
Church in Fort Worth since 2009. Graduated from TCU 1982 with B. S. in mathematics.
Compound Rhythm and Polyrhythm in Dance - Level: All
We will explore different ways to think about and use the "trickier" rhythms in dance--those with more than 4 beats to the
measure and those with simultaneous multiple tempos and phase shifts. Examples will come from folk music and dances of
the Balkan, Greek and Zimbabwean cultures. Bring rhythm instruments, if you are able, and be prepared to move!
Amanda Jackson (Fac/Tarrant County C-Northwest) is a performer, choreographer, educator, stylist, and avid cooking
improviser holding an M.F.A. in Dance from Texas Woman’s University. Her work has been presented across the US with a notable
experience at Harvard University with collaborator, Matthew Cumbie of Dance Exchange. She has also enjoyed performing at The
Kennedy Center and for the ADF 75th Anniversary in Durham, NC with Mark Dendy. Amanda is currently Adjunct Professor of
Dance at Tarrant County College Northwest and Co-Director of Big Rig Dance Collective. Additional teaching credits include Contact
Improvisation workshops at TDIF, ACDFA, and Luther College in Decorah, IA.
Feeling & Busting (Composition) – Level: Int./Adv.
This composition class is rooted in physical endurance. Aiming to discover possibility in limitation, we will explore
restrictive yet open tasks in multiple ways: as a soloist; through contact partnering; and collaboratively making an
impossible, inefficient, and demanding monster phrase. We will also challenge ourselves to dive into this new movement
vocabulary with sincerity, wit, subtly, thoughtfulness, reckless abandon, and everything in between. Please bring water,
kneepads, and an open mind!
Donna Jewell (Fac/U of New Mexico) MFA Dance NYU, Head of Dance, Department of Theatre and Dance, University of New
Mexico, artistic director of Jewell & Company - Ms. Jewell has been choreographing, performing and teaching in Europe and the
United States for 25 years. She was a full-time faculty member of the Salzburg Experimental Academy of Dance and a tenured faculty
member in the Mozarteum College of Fine Arts in Salzburg. Jewell works as choreographer and actress for Lawine
Torren (www.torren.at) of Austira, which creates site specific works for large machines and humans. She is co-founder of the
improvisation performance ensemble Ecotone Physical Theatre.
Improvisation: Movement and Voice – Level: All
A laboratory to explore impulses using movement and voice within structured improvisational exercises. The class is
designed to move you beyond your comfort zone and away from what you “know” or normally “do”, to delve past those
elements and into the realm of the present moment, using the elements of time, space, and energy to enhance your
connection to what authentically, organically arises, without judgement or the need to “produce” something “good”.
Melissa Johnson (Fac/Brookhaven C) is a graduate assistant at Texas Woman’s University. She is currently working on her
MFA at Texas Woman’s University in dance performance and choreography. Her choreography has been showcased at Youth Texas
Dance Festival, Dance for the Planet, Dance Montage, Brookhaven’s Dancers Theatre and several national competitions. As well as
teaching, she also performs as a company member of Elledanceworks and as a guest performer for Ewert & Company and
SabaDancers.
Contemporary – Level: Int.
This class will go through a traditional full body modern warm-up, a section of across the floor work, and will end with a
contemporary combination that blends lyrical and modern dance styles while indulging in flowing, expressive movement.
Shen (Sunny) Jun (Grad Student/U of Texas-Austin), is from China and has a bachelor degree of Fine Arts from Beijing
Capital Normal University. In China, he danced and choreographed with Beijing Dance LDTX. In recent years he has collaborated
with artists from many different countries. He has traveled and performed in Europe, Asia and the U.S. and has taught dance at the
Shanghai Drama Academy, Western Academy In Beijing, Alonzo King Lines Ballet School, Virginia Commonwealth University and
others. He is an MFA candidate at the University of Texas at Austin.
Contemporary Dance from CHINA
This class is a dance technique class, which involves modern dance technique combined with Chinese classical opera
elements.
9ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
David Justin (Fac/U of Texas-Austin) - Formerly a Principal Dancer with Birmingham Royal Ballet (UK), a Soloist with San
Francisco Ballet and Boston Ballet, David has enjoyed a choreographic and performance career over thirty years including the
principal roles of the classical and contemporary ballet cannons. Touring the world, David’s dancing has been described as ‘alluring
and mercurial’, ‘polished’, ‘brilliant’, and ‘fearless.’ David’s critically acclaimed choreography has been performed at the Kennedy
Center, in Greece, at the Edinburgh Festival, and in New York City. In 2005, David founded the American Repertory Ensemble, an
Austin, TX based contemporary classical ballet and chamber music group devoted to creating new works presented with recognized
masterpieces. David holds a Master of Arts degree from the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom. He is an Associate
Professor of Dance with tenure and Head of the BFA in Dance at the University of Texas at Austin.
Advanced Ballet - the "How" behind the "What"
Rediscover insights of the old masters interpreted for the 21st century dancer. Turn more, Jump higher, achieve technique
with greater ease and more effect.....but don't kid yourself, it ain't easy. Come ready to sweat!
Men's Ballet Technique - the "How" behind the "What”
Rediscover insights of the old masters interpreted for the 21st century dancer. Turn more, Jump higher, achieve technique
with greater ease and more effect.....but don't kid yourself, it ain't easy. Come ready to sweat!
Tina Kambour (Fac/U of Central OK) M.A. is a Certified Movement Analyst, a Dynamic Embodiment practitioner and a
certified teacher of BodyMind Dancing. She teaches modern technique, improvisation, composition and Laban Movement Analysis.
She has choreographed over 30 works for the dance department’s touring dance company. Her choreography has been presented in
Mexico and at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and she has been commissioned to choreograph for professional companies
and universities. From 1999-2008, she was a visiting faculty member for the New World School of the Arts in Miami, Florida. She has
taught throughout the US, in Mexico and in Northern Ireland.
BodyMind Dancing – Level: All
BodyMind Dancing, developed by Dr. Martha Eddy, Founder of Dynamic Embodiment ™, integrates skilled touch and
movement principles from Body-Mind Centering®, approaches from Laban Movement Analysis/Bartenieff fundamentals,
and compassionate dialogue to enhance your dance technique training and teaching. The class integrates breath and inner
connectivity with full-bodied expressivity.
Tawnya Kannarr (Grad student/Sam Houston State U) is a first year graduate student at Sam Houston State University. Prior
to dancing at Sam Houston , Tawnya danced at Scottsdale Community College, in Scottsdale Arizona where she trained with Angela
Rosenkrans, Anne Reinking, Chad Michael Hall of Multiplex Dance, Mark and Solveig Santilliano of Pilobolus and Momix, Ashleigh
Leite of Stephen Petronio Company and many others. Tawnya has also danced professionally with Scorpius Dance Theatre and
Rosenkrans Dans. She has trained extensively in modern dance with high intensity floor work. Tawnya has had a very eclectic
training in many different styles of modern dance but has found that her style of work is based in coming in and out of the floor.
Int/Adv modern technique: kneepads highly recommended
A modern based technique with extensive floor work. Kneepads are HIGHLY recommended.
Sheree King (Fac/Long Beach City C) is Professor of Dance at Long Beach City College in Long Beach CA. She is a graduate of
UCLA and California State University, Fullerton. She is also a certified Pilates instructor. Her interests in dance are eclectic. She has
performed with Nouveau Chamber Ballet, Rudy Perez, and has taught folk dance around the globe with her dancer husband, Tom
Bozigian.
Bollywood – Level: All
Bollywood dance incorporates the traditional dances of Bhangra from Northern India with contemporary dance styles such
as hip hop. It's a great aerobic workout and lots of fun.
Russian Character Dance – Level: Int./Adv.
Barre exercises from Russian Character Dance will be followed by center floor exercises and a short combination of
Mazurka. Character shoes or jazz shoes needed.
Debra Knapp (Fac/New Mexico State U) is a Professor and Director of Dance at New Mexico State University. She has been on
the dance faculties of Butler University, Indiana University, University of New Mexico, and the Palucca School Academy of
Performing Arts in Dresden Germany. She has danced professionally with the Bill Evans Dance Company, the Dresden Germany
Semperoper Ballet Company, the Nora Reynolds Dance Company, and the Danzantes Dance Company. Debra received the 2013
Scholar/Artist and the 2012 University Dance Educator of the Year Awards from the National Dance Association.
Modern Dance, From the Inside Out – Level: All
In this modern dance technique class, participants will explore and embody movement patterns and concepts based on Bill
Evans’ approach to modern dance technique. Participants will work both individually and collaboratively to explore
movement possibilities and be encouraged to use dialogue as a tool for supporting creativity, reflection, and feedback.
Create, Create, Create – Level: All
As choreographers and dancers, we don't practice creating enough. In this class we will do short improvisational studies
called "quick creations" using Bartenieff movement principles, Laban movement concepts, and principles of compositional
design.
10ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Michelle Moeller (Fac/U of Central OK) is an Assistant Professor at the University of Central Oklahoma and is the Director of
Perpetual Motion Dance, an Oklahoma City modern and aerial dance company. She completed her Master of Fine Arts in Dance at
Texas Woman's University and her BA in Dance from the University of Central Oklahoma. Her choreography has been a part of
numerous concerts and festivals, including four American College Dance Festivals, ROGUE in Fresno, CA, and the New Genre
Festival in Tulsa.
Int/Adv Modern Technique
In this class, we will combine classical modern virtuosity with post-modern release through the exploration of weight,
momentum, fall and suspension.
Contact Improvisation – Level: Beg./Int.
A beginning study of contact improvisation with an emphasis on weight sharing, momentum, and awareness of points of
contact.
Frank Munoz III (Fac/UT Pan American) has received a MS degree in Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance and a
ME degree in Educational Supervision from UTPA. He attended TWU where he completed course work (ABD) towards a Ph. D. in
Dance and Related Arts. He received a “Special Achievement” award in appreciation for expanding the view of Artistry in Dance
from the TWU faculty. He studied folklorico and flamenco with renowned professional artists such as Rafael Zamarripa, Maria
Benitez, Enrique Iglesias, and Jose Greco. He presently serves as Dance Program Coordinator and teaches a variety of dance theory
courses and all levels of folklorico technique repertoire.
State of Tamaulipas/La Huasteca – Level: Int/Adv *bring character shoes
The “huapango” is one of the most popular folk dances in Mexico. It is performed in the “Huasteca” region from the state of
Tamaulipas to the state of Veracruz. The costume is made of brown suede, decorated with floral motifs of white goat skin,
symbolizes the cattle and agricultural industries of the area.
Michelle Nance (Fac/TX State U) is an Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre & Dance at Texas State University.
Michelle’s choreography has been commissioned and produced in the U.S. and abroad. Most recently, she performed her own work
in Chile as part of the International Dance and Theater Festival FINTDAZ in October, 2013. Locally, she has appeared as a
choreographer and performer with Austin-based, REALMdanceproject, Forklift Danceworks, Big Range Dance Festival, and the Shay
Ishii Dance Company. From 1996-1998, she served as Assistant School Director, teacher, and understudy with the Erick Hawkins
Dance Company. Michelle holds an MFA from the University of Colorado-Boulder.
Hawkins-based Modern Technique – Level: Int.
This free-flow class will introduce the principles of the Erick Hawkins Technique. Movements will include looping,
spiraling, contracting, and softening. Students will learn to develop and maintain a strong, integrated torso and freedom in
the limbs and joints, while increasing balance and flexibility. The workshop will proceed from sitting and lying floor-work,
to standing exercises, and finish with movement sequences that travel through space.
Composing Movement with Time and Dynamics – Level: All
Utilizing the approach of the late composer/choreographer Lucia Dlugoszewski, this class focuses on clarifying the
choreographer’s/performer’s articulation of movement in time and with dynamics. Lucia Dlugoszewski was the principle
composer for the Erick Hawkins Dance Company from 1957 until her death in 2000. She developed a unique method of
teaching dance composition from a composer’s point of view. Elements explored will be pulse, mixed meters, subdivisions,
and dynamic range. Please bring a notebook and pencil, if possible.
Sarah Newton (Fac/Texas Christian U) currently holds an appointment as Instructor of Dance at Texas Christian University.
Sarah completed the Master of Fine Arts in Dance at Texas Woman’s University and is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Sam
Houston State University, where she earned the BFA in Dance. She is currently a member of Out On a Limb Dance Company and
Contemporary Dance/Fort Worth. Sarah has enjoyed teaching master classes at numerous schools and festivals. Contributing to her
body of knowledge is her comprehensive mat and equipment Pilates certification through Balanced Body University.
Modern Dance Upside Down, Inside Out – Level: Int./Adv.
A fast paced, athletic, technique class that moves in and out of the floor in numerous ways.
Dana Nicolay (Fac/Sam Houston State U) - Drawing on his international background in ballet, contemporary dance and Laban
Movement Analysis, Dana strives to create dances that speak clearly and truly of human experience. His body of nearly 50 concert
works has produced numerous awards and recognitions from organizations such as ACDFA, Regional Dance America, and the Mid-
America Dance Network. He pursues an active free-lance career as a teacher, choreographer, and adjudicator. He holds the MFA in
modern dance from Texas Christian University, is a Certified Laban/ Bartenieff Movement Analyst and holds the rank full professor
of dance at Sam Houston State University.
Advanced Ballet
An international background with ballet companies such as the Houston Ballet and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, give Dana a
strong command of the pedagogy and vocabulary used in the English Royal Ballet, Royal Danish, Vaganova and Cecchetti
traditions. His certification in the American Ballet Theater – National Training Curriculum, helps to inform and integrate
this core content within his teaching methodology. His work with Bill Evans in somatic principles and his Laban Movement
Analysis certification add depth, functionality, and rich descriptive language to his teaching style.
11ACDFA South-Central 2014 – Keep Austin Dancing
Tiffany Nirider (Fac/Lone Star C – Montgomery) -A resident of Conroe, TX, Tiffany Nirider has been involved in the world of
dance for 33 years. She began teaching various dance forms at the age of 16 and started dancing professionally in 1997. She holds the
MFA in Dance from Sam Houston State University. She is currently an adjunct faculty member at Lone Star College-Montgomery.
Other teaching credits have included LSC-Kingwood, LSC-North Harris and Sam Houston State University. Teaching repertoire
includes modern, ballet, jazz, choreography, dance performance, dance appreciation, ballroom, and aerobics. She has performed with
Kista Tucker Insights, Inc. (most recently in May 2013 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.), Chrysalis Dance Company
(Houston, TX) and DanceSation Entertainment (Ft. Lauderdale, FL/San Diego, CA).
Modern – Level: Int./Adv.
Rooted in Laban theory and principle, this modern technique class seeks to access the authentic self through movement that
is efficient, dynamic and energizing.
Andy Noble (Fac/Sam Houston State U) is a Professor at Sam Houston State University and Co-Artistic Director of NobleMotion
Dance. Andy’s performing career includes six years with Repertory Dance Theatre (RDT), where he performed in over forty
choreographic works by such noted masters as Martha Graham, Merce Cunningham and Jose Limon. He also worked first-hand with
many cutting edge contemporary and international artists such as Gideon Obarzanek (Chunky Move), Jø Strømgren and Zvi
Gotheiner. His work with NobleMotion Dance has been critically recognized and was recently listed in Dance Magazine as one of
Houston’s “A-list” dance companies. For more information about NobleMotion, visit www.noblemotiondance.com.
Advanced Contemporary
This physically challenging class integrates contemporary and hip-hop styles while exploring the modern concepts of fall
and recovery and momentum building. Athleticism and efficiency of movement are
Dionne Sparkman Noble (Fac/Sam Houston State U) is co-artistic director of NobleMotion Dance and an Assistant
Professor of Dance at Sam Houston State University. She has also served as faculty at Florida State University, University of South
Florida and Western Washington University. Dionne received a BA in dance from the University of South Florida and a MFA in
modern dance with an emphasis in dance and technology from the University of Utah. Dionne was just named one of Houston’s 100
Creatives of 2013 by the Houston Press.
Modern Dance Technique – Level: Adv.
Emphasis will be placed on expanding students’ movement vocabulary and deepening one’s kinesthetic understanding of
movement material. Class work will concentrate on the use of breath, the pathway of the pelvis, the subtlety of the spine, the
strength of parallel, and the length of the limbs. Specific material will derive from a variety of modern and post-modern
styles.
Michelle Ozmun (Fac/Lamar U) has taught at Lamar University for 6 years. She teaches a variety of technique and theory
courses.
Irish Ceili Dance – Level: All
Learn and participate in traditional party dances from Ireland. VERY aerobic and fun.
Contra Dance – Level: All
Contra dances use a walking rhythm (to traditional American music) and formations similar to square dancing. Many cities
throughout the US have contra dance clubs or events. Learn several fun and easy social dances.
Shelley Padilla (Fac/Texas Woman’s U) holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics from the University of Northern
Colorado (1991) and a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Dance from Texas Woman’s University (2006). Shelley’s performing career
includes dancing with Colorado Ballet, Classical Dance Theater, Ballet Arts, Ballet Ariel, Collin County Ballet Theater and
Elledanceworks Dance Company. Shelley has presented research at the Teaching for a Change Conference (2008), World Dance
Alliance Conference (2009, 2010), Langdon Review of the Arts in Texas (2010), and she has had choreographic work adjudicated and
performed in the Regional Dance of America Festival (2008). Shelley has been honored with receiving the Excellence in Teaching
Award (2009) from TWU’s Department of Dance and the Gordon Yeargon Adjunct Faculty Member of the Year (2009-2010) at North
Central Texas College. She currently writes dance reviews for World Arts Today, teaches yoga at Yoga on Main St. in Frisco, TX, is a
full-time Adjunct Professor at Texas Woman's University and happily lives with her husband and four children in Prosper, Texas.
Ballet Technique – Level: Int./Adv.
This class will focus on the value of anatomical alignment as it supports the body in performing ballet vocabulary at the
barre, in center-floor, and across-the-floor combinations. Classical ballet terminology will be blended with somatic cues and
traditional movement will be paired with contemporary dynamics.
Chell Parkins (Fac/Manor High School) received her MFA in Dance at the University of Texas at Austin in 2012. Her graduate
research was in disembodied versus embodied choreography, integrating technology in the choreographic process. She was Artist in
Residence at ZAWP and AZALA in and near Bilbao, Spain where she performed more advanced technology integrated dance works
in 2012. Parkins currently teaches dance and drill team at Manor High School in Manor, Texas where students learn to use dance as a
vehicle to overcome trauma and build positive communities. She recently won awards at MA Competition for her hip hop and kick
choreography.
Contemporary Hip Hop – Level: All
This is a fast paced, high energy contemporary hip hop class for all levels that uses an eclectic mix of music, from alternative
to pop, house, and hip hop. The warm up will be focused on conditioning the body and core strength. Movement focuses
on musicality and technique while also working on rhythm, precision, and style. Get ready to sweat!!
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