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Dancing in Summer, the Festival
June 26-28, 2026, Riverside Arts Center
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Two Professional Choreographers Showcases,
Master Classes,
Choreography Showing,
Dance Film Screening
Mixed Bill Concert
Meet Our 2026 Artists!
Seyong Kim, Project SK+A
Friday Professional Showcase
Seyong Kim, Associate Professor of Dance at Western Michigan University (Kalamazoo, MI) and International Visiting Professor at Sung-shin Women's University (Seoul, South Korea), holds an MA in Dance Education from New York University. He is a CMA (Certified Movement Analyst), a RSDE (Registered Somatic Dance Educator), a PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique) Certified Teacher, and an ABT® Certified Teacher (Primary through Level 7 of the American Ballet Theatre’s National Training Curriculum). Seyong has taught for the University of Georgia, Rutgers University, John Hopkins University, Randolph College, American College Dance Association (ACDA), Alabama Dance Festival, Grand Rapids Ballet, Ballet 5:8 Chicago, and Eisenhower Dance Detroit. Seyong has danced with the Metropolitan Opera in Lincoln Center, Albania National Ballet Theatre, Traverse City Dance Project, TAKE Dance, and Oakland Ballet Company. His choreographic works have been presented at Landestheater Coburg in Germany, JueDai Taipei International Dance Festival, International Contemporary Dance Festival of Mexico City, ProArteDanza in Canada, Battery Dance Festival, Palm Desert Choreography Festival, American Dance Guild Festival, Washington International Dance Festival, Detroit Dance City Festival, Boston Contemporary Dance Festival, CrossCurrent Asian American Dance Festival, and Movement Research at the Judson Church. Currently, Seyong is a resident choreographer with Wise Ballet Theater in Seoul, South Korea.
Winifred Haun, Winifred Haun & Dancers,
Friday Professional Showcase
Nominated twice for the prestigious Ruth Page Award for Choreography, Wini's work has been shown at many national and international venues and commissioned by many Chicago and national dance companies. She has received grants for her choreography from the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, Oak Park Area Arts Council, the City of Chicago, Illinois Arts Council, 3Arts and many others.
Wini created Chicago’s NEXT Dance Festival and spearheaded the event annually from 1994 to 2001. The festival grew to be the top producer of new and emerging dance artists in Chicago, and in 2000 Ms. Haun was recognized by the Ruth Page Award for her Outstanding Contribution to the Dance Community through establishing this festival. In 2016, she created “First Draft: new work by Chicago area artists,” as a vehicle for the new work of Chicago-based dancemakers.
Ms. Haun was a member of the Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance Theatre (JHCDT) from 1985 to 1991. She performed and taught with JHCDT while on tour in the US, Canada, Mexico and the middle east. While dancing with JHCDT, Wini also served as the Company Scholarship Coordinator. She danced many soloist roles with the company and received national critical acclaim for her dancing. In 1991, she was nominated for the Ruth Page Dancer of the Year Award.
Ms. Haun trained at the Ellis-DuBoulay School of Ballet in Chicago. She recieved a B.A. in Theatre/Dance from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. While obtaining her degree, Ms. Haun choreographed works for student and faculty dance concerts and musicals. She had the opportunity to be in residency at her Alma Mater in 2023.
Ms. Haun has taught modern dance and dance composition at the Beijing Dance Academy in China, Chicago Academy for the Arts, Dance Center of Columbia College, and at festivals and workshops worldwide. She was a modern dance and ballet instructor at Hubbard St. Dance Chicago for 14 years.
Wini created Chicago’s NEXT Dance Festival and spearheaded the event annually from 1994 to 2001. The festival grew to be the top producer of new and emerging dance artists in Chicago, and in 2000 Ms. Haun was recognized by the Ruth Page Award for her Outstanding Contribution to the Dance Community through establishing this festival. In 2016, she created “First Draft: new work by Chicago area artists,” as a vehicle for the new work of Chicago-based dancemakers.
Ms. Haun was a member of the Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance Theatre (JHCDT) from 1985 to 1991. She performed and taught with JHCDT while on tour in the US, Canada, Mexico and the middle east. While dancing with JHCDT, Wini also served as the Company Scholarship Coordinator. She danced many soloist roles with the company and received national critical acclaim for her dancing. In 1991, she was nominated for the Ruth Page Dancer of the Year Award.
Ms. Haun trained at the Ellis-DuBoulay School of Ballet in Chicago. She recieved a B.A. in Theatre/Dance from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. While obtaining her degree, Ms. Haun choreographed works for student and faculty dance concerts and musicals. She had the opportunity to be in residency at her Alma Mater in 2023.
Ms. Haun has taught modern dance and dance composition at the Beijing Dance Academy in China, Chicago Academy for the Arts, Dance Center of Columbia College, and at festivals and workshops worldwide. She was a modern dance and ballet instructor at Hubbard St. Dance Chicago for 14 years.
Tingyu Xie,
Sunday Mixed Bill Showcase
Tingyu Xie is a choreographer, performer, and dance educator based in Columbus, Ohio. Her work bridges Asian classical aesthetics and contemporary movement research, exploring how heritage, spirituality, and embodied storytelling can be reimagined within modern performance contexts. She is the founder of TINGMOTION Dance and Wellness, a platform for developing new choreographic work alongside community-centered classes that integrate movement, wellness, and cultural expression.
Xie holds an MFA in Dance from Case Western Reserve University and a B.S. in Physics from Southeast University in China. After graduation, She taught at Case Western Reserve University’s Dance Department and across community studios in Cleveland, Columbus, and Seattle. She also lead festival-based master classes titled Contemporary Chinese Fusion at the Kentucky Dance Festival, fostering cross-cultural exchange and accessible dance education. Her recent work Murmurs of Mural is scheduled for a 2026 tour with performances at OhioDance Festival, Kentucky Dance Festival, and Ballet Legato’s ROOTS Choreographer Showcase.
Xie holds an MFA in Dance from Case Western Reserve University and a B.S. in Physics from Southeast University in China. After graduation, She taught at Case Western Reserve University’s Dance Department and across community studios in Cleveland, Columbus, and Seattle. She also lead festival-based master classes titled Contemporary Chinese Fusion at the Kentucky Dance Festival, fostering cross-cultural exchange and accessible dance education. Her recent work Murmurs of Mural is scheduled for a 2026 tour with performances at OhioDance Festival, Kentucky Dance Festival, and Ballet Legato’s ROOTS Choreographer Showcase.
Kent De Spain and Leslie Dworkin, Saturday Professional Showcase
LESLIE DWORKIN is an independent dance artist whose performance residencies include the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Joyce SoHo, Movement Research in NYC, and Jacob’s Pillow, to name a few. Her work has received much choreographic support, including grants from Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Pew Charitable Trusts, a 3-year residency with the Susan Hess Choreographers Project, and she is a two-time winner of the Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Award in Choreography. Leslie danced internationally as a member of the Melanie Stewart Dance Company and the Leah Stein Dance Company, and in the works of countless independent dance artists. She is an integrative bodywork therapist, a certified yoga and qigong instructor, and has been a guest artist in many dance departments throughout the U.S.
KENT DE SPAIN is the recipient of several awards, including the Pew Fellowship in the Arts for Choreography and an Established Choreographer’s Fellowship from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. He has taught master classes and workshops in the United States, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, and his work has been seen throughout the United States and beyond, including performances at Jacob's Pillow, Judson Church, Joyce Soho, and the Painted Bride. He is internationally recognized for his teaching, performance, filmmaking, and writing in the area of movement improvisation, including his feature-length documentary, A Moving Presence, and his book, Landscape of the Now.
KENT DE SPAIN is the recipient of several awards, including the Pew Fellowship in the Arts for Choreography and an Established Choreographer’s Fellowship from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. He has taught master classes and workshops in the United States, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, and his work has been seen throughout the United States and beyond, including performances at Jacob's Pillow, Judson Church, Joyce Soho, and the Painted Bride. He is internationally recognized for his teaching, performance, filmmaking, and writing in the area of movement improvisation, including his feature-length documentary, A Moving Presence, and his book, Landscape of the Now.
Tamara Tucker-Ibarisha, Bichini Bia Congo
Congolese Dance Master Class
Tamara Tucker-Ibarisha is an artist who has a passion for movement, rhythm, and tradition. With over two decades of dedicated study and performance, she has immersed herself in the vibrant traditions of Congolese dance, music, and drumming under the masterful direction of Biza Sompa as a core member of the Bichini Bia Congo Dance Theater Company. Her training also includes West and East (Kenyan) African dance styles which she brings to bear in her creative work outside of Bichini Bia Congo.
Deanna Stanton, Saturday Professional Showcase
Deanna Stanton is currently in her thirteenth season with Ballet Arkansas. She began dancing in her hometown of Clarksville, Maryland. She credits her early training to her time spent at the Baltimore School for the Arts. Deanna graduated with a BFA in Ballet from the University of Cincinnati - College Conservatory of Music. During this time, she was also a Trainee with Ballet West for two seasons. Since joining Ballet Arkansas, she has had the opportunity to perform principal or featured roles in George Balanchine’s Who Cares?, Gerald Arpino’s Reflections & Birthday Variations, Val Caniparoli’s Lady of the Camellias, Kenneth MacMillan's Romeo & Juliet, and Chris Stuart’s Under the Lights. She has also performed Mina in Michael Fothergill's Dracula, Fairy Godmother in Michael Fothergill's Cinderella, Big Swans in Swan Lake, Carabosse in Sleeping Beauty as well as the Sugar Plum Fairy, Snow Queen, Coffee & Dew Drop in The Nutcracker. She has had the privilege of working with choreographers such as Yuka Oba-Muschiana, Xin Ying, Madison Hicks, Kiyon Gaines, and Tom Mattingly. In addition to performing, Deanna has a passion for choreographing. She has had the privilege of creating works for Iowa Choreography Festival, Oklahoma International Dance Festival, Contemporary Dance Choreography Festival, Texture Contemporary Ballet, New Century Dance Project, the Rhode Island Women’s Choreography Project, The Young Choreographers Festival and several works for Ballet Arkansas as well as Ballet Arkansas’ Summer Intensive and YAGP participants. She has also created two full length ballets; The Little Mermaid & Cinderella.
Julia Discenza, Dance Film Screening
Julia Discenza is an movement artist, cinematographer and photographer working between Ann Arbor and New York. As a contemporary dancer she has worked with choreographers such Gina Gibney, Nicole Von Arx, Gregory Dolbashian, Andy and Dionne Noble and others. As a cinematographer she uses her theatrical dance experience to inform storytelling and character, shooting documentaries, dance films, narrative shorts and music videos that have been screened at festivals in the US and abroad. She creates workshops on dance filmmaking for summer programs and universities and serves as Dance Film Curator for NYC-based organization CreateART. Through CreateART, she produced New York's first 24hr dance filmmaking event inside Ace Hotel Brooklyn in Summer 2025.
Georgia Usborne, Dance Film Screening
Georgia Usborne is a British Performer, Choreographer, Director and Teacher based in Brooklyn, New York. She is the Founding Director of CreateART, performance and residency platform building community and supporting artists in New York City. As a performer, Georgia appeared in Punch drunk’s immersive show ‘Sleep No More’ performing the role of Lady Macduff from 2023-2025. She has danced for choreographer Andrea Miller’s GALLIM since 2014, and continues to work with the company as a Guest Artist, Teacher and Rehearsal Director. Georgia choreographs for film, live performance and music videos, exploring honest movement as a story telling tool. As a director, her experimental dance films have appeared at multiple film festivals.
Vrishali Parab, Choreography Showing
Odissi is a neoclassical dance deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of its place of origin. Vrishali’s practice includes studying with her teacher through both traditional and contemporary choreographies to build a repertoire of Odissi movements and mudras. She also learns about the dance’s cultural lineage by watching archival recordings and consulting relevant literature and research.
This practice extends into her own choreographic work, where she often experiments with how Odissi movement can engage with music and narratives from different cultures. Her projects so far include pieces set to a Buddhist chant, an anti-caste ballad, Baroque music, and most recently, a duet set to Scottish and Bangla poems connected by a shared musical structure. Her work is driven by a desire to situate her artistic practice within the reality of the world she lives in.
This practice extends into her own choreographic work, where she often experiments with how Odissi movement can engage with music and narratives from different cultures. Her projects so far include pieces set to a Buddhist chant, an anti-caste ballad, Baroque music, and most recently, a duet set to Scottish and Bangla poems connected by a shared musical structure. Her work is driven by a desire to situate her artistic practice within the reality of the world she lives in.
Breakin' Ballet, Choreography Showing
Breakin' Ballet is a dance duo based out of Kalamazoo, MI that combines the art of Breakin' with the art of Ballet, and other dance styles, to share stories of the human experience. Breakin' Ballet is directed by Aerick Burton and Joy Morris-Burton, who dance, choreograph, and perform both duets, and larger group works. Aerick and Joy have been dancing and performing for over 20 years, and both teach at Move with Joy studio. They started dancing together as Breakin' Ballet in 2020. Twice annually, Joy and Aerick host 15 week Breakin' Ballet dance labs at Move with Joy studio. Breakin' Ballet dance labs allow dancers from all walks of life, experience, and background to train in dance, be part of a performance, and share their story. When Joy and Aerick aren't hosting dance labs and teaching, they enjoy traveling throughout Michigan and beyond, sharing their personal duets.
ConteXture Dance Detroit
Friday Professional Showcase
ConteXture Dance Detroit is a non-profit dance company based in Detroit, that was founded in 2014 by artistic director, Tracy Halloran. It is a contemporary modern dance company that is interested in exploring cultural identity and the relationship between artistic expression and the human condition. Its concert works examine themes within human relationships in order to begin a dialogue on why and how we are connected to each other.
ConteXture’s mission, as part of the burgeoning arts explosion in the city, is to explore and expand the urban dance identity of Detroit. Through advanced training and performance opportunities, ConteXture has developed a local corps of professional dancers in an effort to establish Detroit a nationally recognized center of dance.
Over the last 10 years, the company has performed at a variety of Michigan dance festivals including Oakland Dance Festival, Brighton Dance Festival, Detroit Dance City Festival, and MC3 showcase in Pontiac. In 2016 and 2017, the company traveled to New York City to perform at the international Dumbo Dance Festival. In 2016, they performed at the Detroit Institue of Arts in the Rivera Court as part of "Dance! American Art 1830-1960” exhibition. That same year, they were selected as one of four local dance companies to perform as part of the Detroit Music Weekend, along with a variety of national artist, including The Jacksons and Jeff Daniels. The company has consistently performed at the Detroit Dance City Festival and was selected to perform at the Tanzhafen Festival in Linz, Austria in Fall 2023.
ConteXture’s mission, as part of the burgeoning arts explosion in the city, is to explore and expand the urban dance identity of Detroit. Through advanced training and performance opportunities, ConteXture has developed a local corps of professional dancers in an effort to establish Detroit a nationally recognized center of dance.
Over the last 10 years, the company has performed at a variety of Michigan dance festivals including Oakland Dance Festival, Brighton Dance Festival, Detroit Dance City Festival, and MC3 showcase in Pontiac. In 2016 and 2017, the company traveled to New York City to perform at the international Dumbo Dance Festival. In 2016, they performed at the Detroit Institue of Arts in the Rivera Court as part of "Dance! American Art 1830-1960” exhibition. That same year, they were selected as one of four local dance companies to perform as part of the Detroit Music Weekend, along with a variety of national artist, including The Jacksons and Jeff Daniels. The company has consistently performed at the Detroit Dance City Festival and was selected to perform at the Tanzhafen Festival in Linz, Austria in Fall 2023.
Kaya Wiese, Movement Reservoir Dance Company, Saturday Professional Showcase
Movement Reservoir Dance Company was founded by Lachan Niedbala in 2022 to provide a creative outlet for dance artists, to help build a dance community that supports artists in their endeavors, and to increase opportunities for the Kalamazoo community and beyond to experience dance from multiple voices.
Movement Reservoir strives to create a place for artists to express their artistic voices through dance while challenging themselves to grow in an uplifting environment. Additionally, it provides the Kalamazoo area (and beyond) with more opportunities to experience dance from various artists throughout the Midwest.
Kayla Wiese (she/her), originally from Rochester Hills, Michigan, began her training at local dance studios, training in a multitude of styles. She continues her training in Kalamazoo, Michigan, pursuing a BFA in dance at Western Michigan University School of Theater and Dance, where she has had the opportunity to work with choreographers such as Peter Chu, Annalee Traylor, Monique Haley, Kelsey Paschich, Marrisa Peterson, and Trae Turner. In 2024, Kayla joined Movement Reservoir Dance Company as a company member and choreographer. Outside of her school training, Kayla has been blessed with the opportunity to attend programs to enhance her training, such as BODYTRAFFIC, Eisenhower Dance Detroit’s winter intensive, Cincinnati Ballet, and more. Most recently, she has been selected to present work at Eisenhower Dance Detroit’s NewDANCEfest as an Emerging Choreographer and was selected as the 2025 guest choreographer for Wellspring Dance Academy’s Youth Performing Ensemble.
Movement Reservoir strives to create a place for artists to express their artistic voices through dance while challenging themselves to grow in an uplifting environment. Additionally, it provides the Kalamazoo area (and beyond) with more opportunities to experience dance from various artists throughout the Midwest.
Kayla Wiese (she/her), originally from Rochester Hills, Michigan, began her training at local dance studios, training in a multitude of styles. She continues her training in Kalamazoo, Michigan, pursuing a BFA in dance at Western Michigan University School of Theater and Dance, where she has had the opportunity to work with choreographers such as Peter Chu, Annalee Traylor, Monique Haley, Kelsey Paschich, Marrisa Peterson, and Trae Turner. In 2024, Kayla joined Movement Reservoir Dance Company as a company member and choreographer. Outside of her school training, Kayla has been blessed with the opportunity to attend programs to enhance her training, such as BODYTRAFFIC, Eisenhower Dance Detroit’s winter intensive, Cincinnati Ballet, and more. Most recently, she has been selected to present work at Eisenhower Dance Detroit’s NewDANCEfest as an Emerging Choreographer and was selected as the 2025 guest choreographer for Wellspring Dance Academy’s Youth Performing Ensemble.
Peter Sparling, Saturday Professional Showcase
Peter Sparling is Rudolf Arnheim Distinguished University Professor Emeritus of Dance and an Arthur F. Thurnau Professor Emeritus at University of Michigan. A graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy and The Juilliard School, Sparling was a member of the José Limón Dance Company and principal dancer with Martha Graham Dance Company. He directed Michigan’s own Peter Sparling Dance Company from 1993-2008 and was recognized with the 1998 Governor’s Michigan Artist Award. He is a lecturer, published poet and essayist. His dances for video have been selected for numerous international festivals, including the New York Dance on Camera Festival, American Dance Festival, Lisbon’s InShadow Festival, DANCE:FILMS Glasgow, Screen Dance International and Ann Arbor Film Festival. His screendance, The Snowy Owl, was featured in the Court Métrage of the Cannes Film Festival 2015. His made-for-TV work, Climbing Sainte-Victoire, was broadcast on Michigan Television in 2009. The Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival screened his video, “Winterreise”, with live musical performance at the Detroit Institute of Arts in 2022. More recently, he shared lectures on Bach and the Dance with Eugene Drucker, violinist, as guest of the Berkshire Bach Society. An avid painter, Sparling has presented five solo exhibits and had works featured in numerous group shows.
Carly Liegel, Terpsichore Collective ChoreoLab Artist, Sunday Mixed Bill Showcase
Performer, teacher, and choreographer Carly Liegel hails from Madison, WI. Liegel completed her BFA in Dance at Indiana University where she had the privilege to star in works by Twyla Tharp, Juel D. Lane, Beatrice Capote, Elizabeth Shea, and Selene Carter. Upon graduation, Liegel moved to Chicago. In the city, she was a company member with Alluvion Dance Chicago while also performing in works with Hot Crowd, Darvin Dances, and other freelance artists at theaters such as Ruth Page Center for the Arts, the Athenaeum Center, and the Edge Theater.
Liegel’s choreography has been showcased at Detroit Dance City Festival, Inaside's Choreography Competition, Alluvion's Arrive Festival, Trifecta’s A New Light Festival, and JoffeyNext at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Carly co-created RAMBLE with Megan Kudla - a sold-out collage performance of dance, live music, theater, and the lyrics of Led Zeppelin that premiered at Links Hall in July 2023. She also directed Shed Light on the Subject with Faith Hagerty in August 2024 - an evening that reimagined how to restage works and engage audiences with dance; Liegel and Hagerty were the inaugural recipients of Dovetail Studio’s 16x2 Performance Series.
While in Chicago, Carly worked with the Joffrey Ballet as a jazz instructor, yoga instructor, and community engagement program coordinator. As program coordinator, Carly led Joffrey’s Bridge Program -providing ballet education and scholarships for students across Chicago Public Schools- and piloted Joffrey’s Dancing with Parkinson’s Program in partnership with Northwestern Medicine.
Liegel is a RYT 200, a trained Dance for PD instructor, and an active member of Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, Dance Masters of Wisconsin, and the National Dance Education Organization.
Carly is excited to be dancing with Terpsichore Collective upon landing in Ann Arbor. Carly's 2026 season with Terpsichore Collective is sponsored by an anonymous donor
Liegel’s choreography has been showcased at Detroit Dance City Festival, Inaside's Choreography Competition, Alluvion's Arrive Festival, Trifecta’s A New Light Festival, and JoffeyNext at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Carly co-created RAMBLE with Megan Kudla - a sold-out collage performance of dance, live music, theater, and the lyrics of Led Zeppelin that premiered at Links Hall in July 2023. She also directed Shed Light on the Subject with Faith Hagerty in August 2024 - an evening that reimagined how to restage works and engage audiences with dance; Liegel and Hagerty were the inaugural recipients of Dovetail Studio’s 16x2 Performance Series.
While in Chicago, Carly worked with the Joffrey Ballet as a jazz instructor, yoga instructor, and community engagement program coordinator. As program coordinator, Carly led Joffrey’s Bridge Program -providing ballet education and scholarships for students across Chicago Public Schools- and piloted Joffrey’s Dancing with Parkinson’s Program in partnership with Northwestern Medicine.
Liegel is a RYT 200, a trained Dance for PD instructor, and an active member of Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, Dance Masters of Wisconsin, and the National Dance Education Organization.
Carly is excited to be dancing with Terpsichore Collective upon landing in Ann Arbor. Carly's 2026 season with Terpsichore Collective is sponsored by an anonymous donor
Theo Renee, Terpsichore Collective ChoreoLab Artisit, Sunday Mixed Bill Showcase
Theo Renee (rolling pronouns) is a choreographer, dancer, and budding producer from Ypsilanti, Michigan. They grew up through Detroit Tap Repertory under the direction of Kelsey Rose Young before attending Goucher College (class of ‘25) where they trained in Modern, West African, and Ballet technique alongside their music and business studies. As a student they choreographed a total of five works and had the privilege of dancing for notable choreographers Burr Johnson, Mustapha Braimah, Rosie Herrera, Chris Law, George Staib, and Earl Mosley.
Since graduation, they’ve been fortunate to be re-acquainted with contemporary dance in Michigan by performing as a guest with Currents Dance Theatre and Movement Reservoir Dance Company. 2026 has been an exciting year so far as Theo undertook their first project as an independent producer (@readyyet.show), started an apprenticeship with Fun Girl Dance Company, became a company member with Dance Uprising, and performed with Shanzell Page — the 25/26 UM Flint Artist in Residence — as part of her creative research in April!
Since graduation, they’ve been fortunate to be re-acquainted with contemporary dance in Michigan by performing as a guest with Currents Dance Theatre and Movement Reservoir Dance Company. 2026 has been an exciting year so far as Theo undertook their first project as an independent producer (@readyyet.show), started an apprenticeship with Fun Girl Dance Company, became a company member with Dance Uprising, and performed with Shanzell Page — the 25/26 UM Flint Artist in Residence — as part of her creative research in April!
Julia Shaeffer, 3rd Coast Dance, Friday Professional Showcase
Julia Schaeffer (she/her) is originally from California, and she began dancing at age 13. She received her BFA in Dance Performance from Chapman University where she studied Jazz, Modern, Ballet, and Contemporary. After graduation, Julia danced with the Lineage dance company for four years where she had the privilege of performing and teaching community outreach classes. She relocated to Chicago in the summer of 2019 to perform and teach throughout the city. Julia joined Winifred Haun & Dancers in 2020 and was promoted to Assistant Artistic Director in 2024. Additionally, Julia currently Directs the 3rd Coast Contemporary Dance Program and teaches for Dance on Broadway, Joel Hall Dancers & Center, Kenwood Dance Academy, and Design Dance. She has presented choreography at Simantiko’s Choreo Kick Off, Detroit Dance City Festival, Trifecta Dance Collective’s A New Light, and Winifred Haun & Dancer’s Absent Moon.
Lynn Miller, Terpsichore Collective ChoreoLab Artist, Sunday Mixed Bill Showcase
Amy Cadwallader, Dance Uprising, Terpsichore Collective ChoreoLab Artist
Amy Cadwallader is a dancer, choreographer, pole dancer, performer, improviser, and educator currently living in Ann Arbor, MI. Amy earned an MFA in Dance at the University of Michigan, where she studied with faculty members Amy Chavasse, Jillian Hopper, Judy Rice, and Amy West. She earned a B.S. in Mathematics Education with minors in Dance and Spanish at Purdue University, where she studied with faculty members Rebecca Bryant, Melodie Carr, Carol Cunningham-Sigman, Holly Jaycox, Mary Beth Van Dyke, and Sally Wallace. Amy’s nontraditional partnering training originated with Purdue faculty and blossomed with guest artist Bill Wade of Inlet Dance Theatre. She trained in compositional improvisation with The Architects, Lower Left, at MICI in Lancaster, PA, and at Thinking Dance in NYC. She studied Vaganova Ballet under Sandra Peticolas and Lisa Douglas of Lafayette Ballet School in Lafayette, IN.
Amy performs with Dance Uprising, Terpsichore Dance Collective, and the Ann Arbor Aviary. She has performed with The Precipitants, Detroit Circus, Resonant Bodies, and as a freelancer. Amy has performed throughout Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, New York, and in Hamilton, ON. Her work has been featured in collaborative shows, mixed-bill programs, and full length evening productions. Amy's 2026 season is sponsored by Eric Cortright.
Amy performs with Dance Uprising, Terpsichore Dance Collective, and the Ann Arbor Aviary. She has performed with The Precipitants, Detroit Circus, Resonant Bodies, and as a freelancer. Amy has performed throughout Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, New York, and in Hamilton, ON. Her work has been featured in collaborative shows, mixed-bill programs, and full length evening productions. Amy's 2026 season is sponsored by Eric Cortright.
HBY Ensemble, Choreography Showing
HBY Ensemble (Holistic Ballet Yoga), is a Metro Detroit professional contemporary dance ensemble for mature artists (age 40 and up), directed by Susan Clayton. Past performing experience includes DDCdances, MoreDances Contemporary Dance Company, Ballet Michigan, Harbinger Dance Company, Dance Nonce, Dance and Company, and Opus Dance Ensemble. Susan has performed in professional review shows in the United States, Japan and Italy, and is also certified to teach yoga and Progressing Ballet Technique.
Victoria Poirier, Diversiform Dance, Choreography Showing
Diversiform Dance Project was formed in 2021 to create a professional dance company that would welcome professional dancers of all sizes, ages, and dance backgrounds to perform new work for the greater Detroit community. The company explores and fuses a wide range of dance styles including modern, jazz, ballet, and social dance which provides an eclectic repertoire and an exciting amount of variation within just one company.
Victoria Poirier has danced with music in her heart throughout every stage of her life. Her early dance journey began flourishing at Graceful Moves Dance Studio training in the styles of tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, pointe, musical theatre, and clogging. She now enjoys teaching young dancers the passion of dance at Graceful Moves as well as Center Stage Dance Company. Victoria achieved academic excellence in dance through her Bachelor’s of Arts in Dance from Oakland University. Her technical mastery is evident in her contemporary, ballet, and modern dance experience at the university level. Victoria currently enjoys dancing and choreographing with Diversiform Dance Project directed by Cindy Raffel, exploring a multitude of styles and performing for local audiences in Southeast Michigan and surrounding areas. Ultimately, Victoria is committed to uplifting incredible people who are doing inspiring work by sharing stories through the artistry of dance, while providing other aspiring dance artists with worthwhile experiences that will have a powerful impact on their lives.
Victoria Poirier has danced with music in her heart throughout every stage of her life. Her early dance journey began flourishing at Graceful Moves Dance Studio training in the styles of tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, pointe, musical theatre, and clogging. She now enjoys teaching young dancers the passion of dance at Graceful Moves as well as Center Stage Dance Company. Victoria achieved academic excellence in dance through her Bachelor’s of Arts in Dance from Oakland University. Her technical mastery is evident in her contemporary, ballet, and modern dance experience at the university level. Victoria currently enjoys dancing and choreographing with Diversiform Dance Project directed by Cindy Raffel, exploring a multitude of styles and performing for local audiences in Southeast Michigan and surrounding areas. Ultimately, Victoria is committed to uplifting incredible people who are doing inspiring work by sharing stories through the artistry of dance, while providing other aspiring dance artists with worthwhile experiences that will have a powerful impact on their lives.
Christina Marie Sears, Terpsichore Collective ChoreoLab Artist, Sunday Mixed Bill Showcase
Christina Marie Sears is a dancer, interdisciplinary artist and writer. She performed in companies and as a freelance dancer in New York, London and Europe. She continues to choreograph and create performances and installations. For over 20 seasons, she was Artistic and Executive Director of the People Dancing Company, which toured and won many honors including Best New Choreography in the State of Michigan. Christina served as Dance Faculty at Wayne State, U-M Flint, Towson University of Maryland and EMU. Currently, Christina teaches in higher education and in the community, with Pittsfield Township and Fabulous Steps Dance Academy, which is the youth education program of Maple Street Studios. She holds an MFA in Dance from State University of New York College at Brockport.
Ballet Legato, Friday Professional Showcase
Ballet Legato is proud to introduce artistic and innovative repertoire from classical to contemporary works while connecting with our community and familiarizing them with the depth and relevance of dance as an art form; presenting accessible performances of the highest quality while enriching the lives of the artists and audiences with a range of significant, ever-evolving dance.
Former Ohio Dance Theatre Principle and Soloist, Jennifer Muselin, studied under the direction of Denise Gula for 15 years, thus perfecting her techniques in ballet, contemporary and jazz. Her love of dance was solidified, when as a child, she performed in BalletMet’s The Nutcracker ballet as a mouse. In her teens, Jennifer trained with and danced works choreographed by former Cleveland Ballet affiliates, Cynthia Graham, Anne Owen and Joseph Glowick, with whom she credits her love for partnering and petit allegro. Ms. Muselin attended New York University's Tisch School of the Arts where she danced under the direction of James Martin and Cherylyn Lavagnino, where she was granted a scholarship for her Sophomore year. At only 19 years old, Jennifer was awarded an apprenticeship at Chicago's famed Hubbard Street Dance Company and selected to instruct summer intensives with the National Cheerleading Association. Ms. Muselin became a founding member of Phenix Dance Theatre, which then became Ohio Dance Theatre in the early 90’s. While with ODT, Ms. Muselin's credits include Clara and Sugarplum, Dew Drop, Chinese and Arabian in The Nutcracker, as well as various principal roles that were choreographed for her exclusively. Jennifer has had the pleasure of being partnered by members of the former Ohio Ballet such as Blas Cerda and Luc Vanier and Joffrey Ballet’s Sam Meredith, as well as performed works choreographed by Mr. Vanier and Amy Miller, co-founders of GroundWorks Dance Theatre. Jennifer has also had the pleasure of dancing various roles choreographed for her in the Ohio Light Opera. Ms. Muselin is trained in the Pilates technique, which is instrumental in her teachings of both children and adults. She has choreographed shows to include Flower Drum Song, The King and I, Beauty and the Beast, Hairspray, Cinderella and instructed summer youth programs at Oberlin College for at risk youths. After she retired as a professional dancer, Jennifer became an event coordinator for the Rock and Rolle Hall of Fame, planning such events as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, “Riot Girls and Rebels”, a celebration event for Joan Jett, and Food Network’s Dinner Impossible, to name few. She then went on to Director of Event and Catering for various Cleveland organizations. In 2013 Jennifer began a new chapter in her life and opened JAM Dance Academy in her home-town of North Ridgeville, a dance school focusing on the disciplined fundamentals of ballet technique. While with JAM, Ms. Muselin produced community-wide fundraisers as “Biking for Ballerinas” and productions of The Nutcracker ballet, choreographing on some of Cleveland’s most talented dancers. In 2019, Jennifer embarked on her new venture as Executive and Artistic Director of her newly formed professional contemporary ballet company, Ballet Legato for which she is most proud to have created ballets such as "Red Riding Hood and The White Witches", "The Nutcracker", a contemporary take on the famed "Giselle" ballet and in 2024, her version of "Alice in Wonderland." In the 2023 season, she worked with Spark Children's Theatre at LCCC, teaching dance for ages 8 -18 for their two week program. Ms. Muselin is also certified as a level 1 instructor of Progressing Ballet Technique, which she implements into her teaching focusing on core strength to trigger muscle memory. Jennifer is loving life and seeing the outdoors with her husband, Ryan and their four children.
Former Ohio Dance Theatre Principle and Soloist, Jennifer Muselin, studied under the direction of Denise Gula for 15 years, thus perfecting her techniques in ballet, contemporary and jazz. Her love of dance was solidified, when as a child, she performed in BalletMet’s The Nutcracker ballet as a mouse. In her teens, Jennifer trained with and danced works choreographed by former Cleveland Ballet affiliates, Cynthia Graham, Anne Owen and Joseph Glowick, with whom she credits her love for partnering and petit allegro. Ms. Muselin attended New York University's Tisch School of the Arts where she danced under the direction of James Martin and Cherylyn Lavagnino, where she was granted a scholarship for her Sophomore year. At only 19 years old, Jennifer was awarded an apprenticeship at Chicago's famed Hubbard Street Dance Company and selected to instruct summer intensives with the National Cheerleading Association. Ms. Muselin became a founding member of Phenix Dance Theatre, which then became Ohio Dance Theatre in the early 90’s. While with ODT, Ms. Muselin's credits include Clara and Sugarplum, Dew Drop, Chinese and Arabian in The Nutcracker, as well as various principal roles that were choreographed for her exclusively. Jennifer has had the pleasure of being partnered by members of the former Ohio Ballet such as Blas Cerda and Luc Vanier and Joffrey Ballet’s Sam Meredith, as well as performed works choreographed by Mr. Vanier and Amy Miller, co-founders of GroundWorks Dance Theatre. Jennifer has also had the pleasure of dancing various roles choreographed for her in the Ohio Light Opera. Ms. Muselin is trained in the Pilates technique, which is instrumental in her teachings of both children and adults. She has choreographed shows to include Flower Drum Song, The King and I, Beauty and the Beast, Hairspray, Cinderella and instructed summer youth programs at Oberlin College for at risk youths. After she retired as a professional dancer, Jennifer became an event coordinator for the Rock and Rolle Hall of Fame, planning such events as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, “Riot Girls and Rebels”, a celebration event for Joan Jett, and Food Network’s Dinner Impossible, to name few. She then went on to Director of Event and Catering for various Cleveland organizations. In 2013 Jennifer began a new chapter in her life and opened JAM Dance Academy in her home-town of North Ridgeville, a dance school focusing on the disciplined fundamentals of ballet technique. While with JAM, Ms. Muselin produced community-wide fundraisers as “Biking for Ballerinas” and productions of The Nutcracker ballet, choreographing on some of Cleveland’s most talented dancers. In 2019, Jennifer embarked on her new venture as Executive and Artistic Director of her newly formed professional contemporary ballet company, Ballet Legato for which she is most proud to have created ballets such as "Red Riding Hood and The White Witches", "The Nutcracker", a contemporary take on the famed "Giselle" ballet and in 2024, her version of "Alice in Wonderland." In the 2023 season, she worked with Spark Children's Theatre at LCCC, teaching dance for ages 8 -18 for their two week program. Ms. Muselin is also certified as a level 1 instructor of Progressing Ballet Technique, which she implements into her teaching focusing on core strength to trigger muscle memory. Jennifer is loving life and seeing the outdoors with her husband, Ryan and their four children.
CPR Dance Inhale Movement, Friday Professional Showcase
Carolyn Pampalone Rabbers is the Executive Artistic Director and founder of CPR Dance: Inhale Movement. She received her MFA at the University of the Arts and graduated as the Presidential Scholar with a BFA from Western Michigan University. Carolyn has danced in NYC, Miami, LA and Michigan dancing and acting both on stage and on camera. Her dance-based works have been featured nationally and internationally, have been a finalist for Michigan’s Maggie Allessee’s Choreography Competition, and has been awarded grant support by the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo, & Texas A&M. She can be seen as ‘Abby’ in Moondance (2020) and has performed for Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers, Coldplay, Omi, Starbucks, Jockey Bra, Kaplan University, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Diavolo EdCo, Mariana Olivera, Clairobscur, LACDC, Nickerson-Rossi Dance, and Vox Lumiere. She has performed in works choreographed by Cori Terry, Erik Hawkins, Yvonne Rainer, Loïe Fuller, Gerald Arpino, Antony Tudor, Randy Duncan, Laurie Eisenhower, and John Leher.
Carolyn is an Instructional Assistant Professor at Texas A&M University, on faculty at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, and has taught at Grand Valley State University and Western Michigan University. She also judges for CRU National Dance Competition, has taught for The Gabriella Foundation in Los Angeles, honored by Michelle Obama in 2015. She is certified as an ABT Affiliate Teacher in Pre-Primary through Level VII & Partnering. She also holds certifications in Graham Technique Levels 3/4/5, PBT, PCT, Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing Contemporary, Reiki and Yoga.
Carolyn is an Instructional Assistant Professor at Texas A&M University, on faculty at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, and has taught at Grand Valley State University and Western Michigan University. She also judges for CRU National Dance Competition, has taught for The Gabriella Foundation in Los Angeles, honored by Michelle Obama in 2015. She is certified as an ABT Affiliate Teacher in Pre-Primary through Level VII & Partnering. She also holds certifications in Graham Technique Levels 3/4/5, PBT, PCT, Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing Contemporary, Reiki and Yoga.
Heather Friese Banet
Heather Friese Banet is a queer, disabled creative based in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Heather is a lifelong dancer and aims to bring accessible dance teaching to disabled & non-disabled people. Combining passions for mindfulness-based art creation, art-journalling, and poetry, Heather founded Mixed Creative Arts Studio, an online studio for artistic instruction, creative exploration, and intentional community building. As someone living with a congenital bone deformity and chronic pain, a mental health disability, and neurodivergence, Heather leans on creativity and self-expression as a means of both survival and healing. Heather’s chorographical work has been featured in past years of Dancing in Summer, the festival. Additionally, Heather's accessible Mixed Creative Arts teaching methods were presented at the 2025 National Dance Education Organization Conference.
Khristian Moffett, Friday Professional Showcase
Looking Back On Our 2025 Artists
Cori Terry
Professional Showcase Artist
Founded in 1981 and now celebrating its 44th season, Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers holds the unique distinction of being one of Michigan's longest-standing small professional modern dance companies. The season includes annual fall and spring concerts, which feature works choreographed by founder, Ms. Terry, members of the company, guest artists, alongside works choreographed by newly appointed Artistic Director, Marisa Bianan. Nationally acclaimed performers and master teachers travel to Kalamazoo to perform and participate in Wellspring’s annual Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival (RADFest), now celebrating its 16th year. And adult and youth dance classes are taught throughout the year and offer area dance students one of the community’s only opportunities to study with working professional dancers. The company and its members’ highly respected reputations are evidenced by regular invitations to perform at dance festivals and events around the country. Some of the most recent highlights include critically acclaimed performances and collaborations with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, Fontana Chamber Arts, Aurora & Antheia, the chromic duo, the Red Sea Pedestrians, WMU's Western Dance Project, Terpsichore's Dancing in Summer Festival, Grand Rapids Ballet's Summer Dance Festival, ArtLab J's Dance City Festival (formerly known as Detroit Dance City Festival), Bill Ryan and the GVSU New Music Ensemble, and Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.
Founded in 1981 and now celebrating its 44th season, Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers holds the unique distinction of being one of Michigan's longest-standing small professional modern dance companies. The season includes annual fall and spring concerts, which feature works choreographed by founder, Ms. Terry, members of the company, guest artists, alongside works choreographed by newly appointed Artistic Director, Marisa Bianan. Nationally acclaimed performers and master teachers travel to Kalamazoo to perform and participate in Wellspring’s annual Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival (RADFest), now celebrating its 16th year. And adult and youth dance classes are taught throughout the year and offer area dance students one of the community’s only opportunities to study with working professional dancers. The company and its members’ highly respected reputations are evidenced by regular invitations to perform at dance festivals and events around the country. Some of the most recent highlights include critically acclaimed performances and collaborations with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, Fontana Chamber Arts, Aurora & Antheia, the chromic duo, the Red Sea Pedestrians, WMU's Western Dance Project, Terpsichore's Dancing in Summer Festival, Grand Rapids Ballet's Summer Dance Festival, ArtLab J's Dance City Festival (formerly known as Detroit Dance City Festival), Bill Ryan and the GVSU New Music Ensemble, and Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.
River Ford
Choreography Showing Artist
River Ford is a movement and visual artist from Michigan.
River Ford is a movement and visual artist from Michigan.
Bridget Vander Hoff
Choreography Showing Artist
Bridget Vander Hoff holds a Bachelor of Arts in dance from Oakland University, where she performed in the Oakland Dance Theatre, as well as in The Autumn of The Rite of Spring as the lead role. She also received the Thesis Award in Dance for her Honors College thesis, George Balanchine’s Funeral March: Rediscovering the Lost Work of a Master. Her work has been presented in festivals such as Detroit Dance City Festival, Southeast Michigan NACHMO Dance Concertl, and Ypsi Dance Swap. She has performed with Dance Uprising and Greater Lansing Ballet, and currently performs with Elements and Happendance. She is the assistant director of Delta Dance Connection’s Junior Company, and serves as the executive secretary of Michigan Dance Council.
Bridget Vander Hoff holds a Bachelor of Arts in dance from Oakland University, where she performed in the Oakland Dance Theatre, as well as in The Autumn of The Rite of Spring as the lead role. She also received the Thesis Award in Dance for her Honors College thesis, George Balanchine’s Funeral March: Rediscovering the Lost Work of a Master. Her work has been presented in festivals such as Detroit Dance City Festival, Southeast Michigan NACHMO Dance Concertl, and Ypsi Dance Swap. She has performed with Dance Uprising and Greater Lansing Ballet, and currently performs with Elements and Happendance. She is the assistant director of Delta Dance Connection’s Junior Company, and serves as the executive secretary of Michigan Dance Council.
Vrishali Parab
Choreography Showing Artist
Vrishali Parab is an Odissi dancer based in Metro Detroit. Originating from the temple and folk dances of Odisha, India, Odissi is known for its intricate footwork, graceful postures, and expressive storytelling. As an adult learner, Vrishali finds joy in exploring these elements in diverse musical and social settings. She studies Odissi at Srijati Arts, a global online learning and creative space for the dance form, and has performed at various arts festivals and cultural programs in Metro Detroit and Toronto.
Vrishali Parab is an Odissi dancer based in Metro Detroit. Originating from the temple and folk dances of Odisha, India, Odissi is known for its intricate footwork, graceful postures, and expressive storytelling. As an adult learner, Vrishali finds joy in exploring these elements in diverse musical and social settings. She studies Odissi at Srijati Arts, a global online learning and creative space for the dance form, and has performed at various arts festivals and cultural programs in Metro Detroit and Toronto.
Amy Cadwallader
ChoreoLab Artist, Mixed Bill Artist
Amy Cadwallader is a dancer, choreographer, pole dancer, performer, improviser, and educator currently living in Ann Arbor, MI. Amy earned an MFA in Dance at the University of Michigan, where she studied with faculty members Amy Chavasse, Jillian Hopper, Judy Rice, and Amy West. She earned a B.S. in Mathematics Education with minors in Dance and Spanish at Purdue University, where she studied with faculty members Rebecca Bryant, Melodie Carr, Carol Cunningham-Sigman, Holly Jaycox, Mary Beth Van Dyke, and Sally Wallace. Amy’s nontraditional partnering training originated with Purdue faculty and blossomed with guest artist Bill Wade of Inlet Dance Theatre. She trained in compositional improvisation with The Architects, Lower Left, at MICI in Lancaster, PA, and at Thinking Dance in NYC. She studied Vaganova Ballet under Sandra Peticolas and Lisa Douglas of Lafayette Ballet School in Lafayette, IN.
Amy performs with Dance Uprising, Terpsichore Dance Collective, and the Ann Arbor Aviary. She has performed with The Precipitants, Detroit Circus, Resonant Bodies, and as a freelancer. Amy has performed throughout Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, New York, and in Hamilton, ON. Her work has been featured in collaborative shows, mixed-bill programs, and full length evening productions.
Amy Cadwallader is a dancer, choreographer, pole dancer, performer, improviser, and educator currently living in Ann Arbor, MI. Amy earned an MFA in Dance at the University of Michigan, where she studied with faculty members Amy Chavasse, Jillian Hopper, Judy Rice, and Amy West. She earned a B.S. in Mathematics Education with minors in Dance and Spanish at Purdue University, where she studied with faculty members Rebecca Bryant, Melodie Carr, Carol Cunningham-Sigman, Holly Jaycox, Mary Beth Van Dyke, and Sally Wallace. Amy’s nontraditional partnering training originated with Purdue faculty and blossomed with guest artist Bill Wade of Inlet Dance Theatre. She trained in compositional improvisation with The Architects, Lower Left, at MICI in Lancaster, PA, and at Thinking Dance in NYC. She studied Vaganova Ballet under Sandra Peticolas and Lisa Douglas of Lafayette Ballet School in Lafayette, IN.
Amy performs with Dance Uprising, Terpsichore Dance Collective, and the Ann Arbor Aviary. She has performed with The Precipitants, Detroit Circus, Resonant Bodies, and as a freelancer. Amy has performed throughout Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, New York, and in Hamilton, ON. Her work has been featured in collaborative shows, mixed-bill programs, and full length evening productions.
Heather Banet
Professional Dance Artist and Master Class Presenter
Heather Friese Banet is a disabled interdisciplinary artist who teaches mixed creative arts classes for disabled and non-disabled people to come together through dance, art, writing, and beyond. They have been dancing since they were a kid and experience chronic pain and mobility syndromes that have progressively worsened since age 20. They love to dance, write poetry, and paint, and feel the inner drive to create art and dance is very strong within them. Artist statement: May we heal, grieve, and lean on each other through art and dance, making us whole once again.
Heather Friese Banet is a disabled interdisciplinary artist who teaches mixed creative arts classes for disabled and non-disabled people to come together through dance, art, writing, and beyond. They have been dancing since they were a kid and experience chronic pain and mobility syndromes that have progressively worsened since age 20. They love to dance, write poetry, and paint, and feel the inner drive to create art and dance is very strong within them. Artist statement: May we heal, grieve, and lean on each other through art and dance, making us whole once again.
Seyong Kim
Professional Showcase Artist
Seyong Kim, an Associate Professor of Dance at Western Michigan University (Kalamazoo, Michigan) and an International Visiting Professor at Sungshin Women's University (Seoul, South Korea), holds an MA in Dance Education from NYU Steinhardt and an MA in Dance from Sung-Kyun-Kwan University (Seoul, South Korea). He is a CMA (Certified Movement Analyst) from Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, a RSDE (Registered Somatic Dance Educator), and a PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique) Certified Teacher. Seyong is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Primary through Level 7 of the American Ballet Theatre’s National Training Curriculum. Furthermore, he earned the Diversity and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University. Seyong has taught for Rutgers University, Kent State University, The University of Georgia, Randolph College, John Hopkins University, Lindenwood University, Columbia Ballet Collaborative, Peridance, Steps On Broadway, Libera University in Italy, World Dance Alliance-America (WDAA), American College Dance Association (ACDA), Cecchetti Council of America, Eisenhower Dance Detroit, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Alabama Dance Festival, Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, West Hawaii Dance Theatre, Chicago Repertory Ballet, Ballet 5:8, South Chicago Dance Theatre, Charlottesville Ballet, Grand Rapids Ballet, and Ballet Preljocaj. As a professional dancer, Seyong has danced with the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center, Albania National Ballet Theatre, Baltimore Ballet, Traverse City Dance Project, Neglia Ballet, TAKE Dance, and Oakland Ballet Company. In addition, his choreographic works have been internationally invited at Landestheater Coburg in Germany, Florence Dance on Screen Festival in Italy, International Contemporary Dance Festival of Mexico City, Taiwan JueDai Taipei International Dance Festival, ProArteDanza in Canada, Seoul Ballet Festival, Lebanon International Dance Festival, Battery Dance Festival, Palm Desert Choreography Festival, American Dance Guild Festival, Cleveland Dance Festival, Richmond Dance Festival, Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival, Chicago International Dance Forum, Detroit Dance City Festival, Boston Contemporary Dance Festival, Orlando Contemporary Dance Choreography Festival, Oklahoma International Dance Festival, Breaking Ground Contemporary Dance Festival, Washington International Dance Festival, CrossCurrent Asian-American Dance Festival, and Movement Research at the Judson Church. Currently, Seyong is a resident choreographer with Wise Ballet Theater in Seoul, South Korea.
Seyong Kim, an Associate Professor of Dance at Western Michigan University (Kalamazoo, Michigan) and an International Visiting Professor at Sungshin Women's University (Seoul, South Korea), holds an MA in Dance Education from NYU Steinhardt and an MA in Dance from Sung-Kyun-Kwan University (Seoul, South Korea). He is a CMA (Certified Movement Analyst) from Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, a RSDE (Registered Somatic Dance Educator), and a PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique) Certified Teacher. Seyong is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Primary through Level 7 of the American Ballet Theatre’s National Training Curriculum. Furthermore, he earned the Diversity and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University. Seyong has taught for Rutgers University, Kent State University, The University of Georgia, Randolph College, John Hopkins University, Lindenwood University, Columbia Ballet Collaborative, Peridance, Steps On Broadway, Libera University in Italy, World Dance Alliance-America (WDAA), American College Dance Association (ACDA), Cecchetti Council of America, Eisenhower Dance Detroit, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Alabama Dance Festival, Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, West Hawaii Dance Theatre, Chicago Repertory Ballet, Ballet 5:8, South Chicago Dance Theatre, Charlottesville Ballet, Grand Rapids Ballet, and Ballet Preljocaj. As a professional dancer, Seyong has danced with the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center, Albania National Ballet Theatre, Baltimore Ballet, Traverse City Dance Project, Neglia Ballet, TAKE Dance, and Oakland Ballet Company. In addition, his choreographic works have been internationally invited at Landestheater Coburg in Germany, Florence Dance on Screen Festival in Italy, International Contemporary Dance Festival of Mexico City, Taiwan JueDai Taipei International Dance Festival, ProArteDanza in Canada, Seoul Ballet Festival, Lebanon International Dance Festival, Battery Dance Festival, Palm Desert Choreography Festival, American Dance Guild Festival, Cleveland Dance Festival, Richmond Dance Festival, Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival, Chicago International Dance Forum, Detroit Dance City Festival, Boston Contemporary Dance Festival, Orlando Contemporary Dance Choreography Festival, Oklahoma International Dance Festival, Breaking Ground Contemporary Dance Festival, Washington International Dance Festival, CrossCurrent Asian-American Dance Festival, and Movement Research at the Judson Church. Currently, Seyong is a resident choreographer with Wise Ballet Theater in Seoul, South Korea.
Kelly Bowker
Dance Film Screening Artist
Kelly Bowker, PhD, is a choreographer, scholar, and educator originally from mid-Michigan. Her dance-making focuses on centering women's experiences, most recently exploring her own journey of motherhood through dance-film. Kelly has been a part-time lecturer at Eastern Michigan University since fall 2023, and is serving as a guest choreographer for the EMU dance program in 2024-2025. Kelly’s dancing journey has taken her from her BFA at University of Michigan to Washington DC, San Francisco, CA, Chicago, IL and London, UK. She completed her MA in Choreography at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, where she first began integrating film into her work. She then went on to complete a PhD in Critical Dance Studies at the University of California, Riverside where her dissertation focused on the intersection of dance, technology, and race in both concert and popular dance. She is excited to be back in the midwest sharing her love of dance with a new generation of artists.
Kelly Bowker, PhD, is a choreographer, scholar, and educator originally from mid-Michigan. Her dance-making focuses on centering women's experiences, most recently exploring her own journey of motherhood through dance-film. Kelly has been a part-time lecturer at Eastern Michigan University since fall 2023, and is serving as a guest choreographer for the EMU dance program in 2024-2025. Kelly’s dancing journey has taken her from her BFA at University of Michigan to Washington DC, San Francisco, CA, Chicago, IL and London, UK. She completed her MA in Choreography at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, where she first began integrating film into her work. She then went on to complete a PhD in Critical Dance Studies at the University of California, Riverside where her dissertation focused on the intersection of dance, technology, and race in both concert and popular dance. She is excited to be back in the midwest sharing her love of dance with a new generation of artists.
Jessica Thomas
Choreography Showing Artist
Jessica Thomas is a professional educator, choreographer, performer and mentor. She has performed for and featured in prestigious companies such as Ann Arbor Ballet Theatre, American Repertory Ballet, Ohio Dance Theatre in collaboration with Ohio Contemporary Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Dayton Ballet, Naomi Goldberg Haas, Second Avenue Dance Company NYC, Ballet Edge Detroit, to name a few. Her choreographic work entitled Mandela/Angelou is featured in Pointe Magazine as Editor's Choice for Pointe Video of the Month. Jessica's choreographic works have also been showcased at Brighton Dance Festival, Biomorphic Dance Festival, Detroit Dance Race, Detroit Dance City Festival, MODArts Dance Collective, Sarasota Contemporary Dance Company, as well as New York University-Tisch. She has educated artists as well as choreographed for students at Detroit Public Schools. Jessica Thomas currently teaches classical ballet at Wayne State University, Juliana's Academy of Dance, as well as The Foundation House. She has also instructed at Christina's Adult Ballet, Ontario Secondary Schools, Legacy Dance Studio, LLC, Dancers Only Studio, to name a few. She obtains a M.F.A in Dance from NYU - TIsch and B.F.A in Dance from Wright State University. Brief Statement of Teaching Philosophy: Classical ballet, the first perception upon contemplating this artform is often adverse for students and educators respectively as it has a history of many negative connotations, experiences, biases, ideals, to say the least, associated with it. Over the years of educating, my goal as an artistic guide, technician, and classical ballet instructor is to re-awaken the students’ perceptions of the beautiful, boundless opportunities, in exploration as well as discovery within this artform upon entering my classroom. As we explore various combinations, I am meticulous about reaffirming proper terminology (applying the Technical Manual and Dictionary of Classical Ballet as well as other reputable resources) associated with each step that I present to the learning/evolving artists. I utilize tactile prompts, anatomical imagery, sensory imagery, research, as well as historical references to enhance the students’ learning experience, growth, and enlightenment within my ballet classes. Although we work intensely within classical ballet, I often remind the students to enjoy creating art, it is essentially, a gift. During classes, I continuously pay homage to the space, it’s breath of history… I also honor the students of which glean from the wealth of information and knowledge that has been poured into me from prestigious institutions and ballet companies.
Jessica Thomas is a professional educator, choreographer, performer and mentor. She has performed for and featured in prestigious companies such as Ann Arbor Ballet Theatre, American Repertory Ballet, Ohio Dance Theatre in collaboration with Ohio Contemporary Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Dayton Ballet, Naomi Goldberg Haas, Second Avenue Dance Company NYC, Ballet Edge Detroit, to name a few. Her choreographic work entitled Mandela/Angelou is featured in Pointe Magazine as Editor's Choice for Pointe Video of the Month. Jessica's choreographic works have also been showcased at Brighton Dance Festival, Biomorphic Dance Festival, Detroit Dance Race, Detroit Dance City Festival, MODArts Dance Collective, Sarasota Contemporary Dance Company, as well as New York University-Tisch. She has educated artists as well as choreographed for students at Detroit Public Schools. Jessica Thomas currently teaches classical ballet at Wayne State University, Juliana's Academy of Dance, as well as The Foundation House. She has also instructed at Christina's Adult Ballet, Ontario Secondary Schools, Legacy Dance Studio, LLC, Dancers Only Studio, to name a few. She obtains a M.F.A in Dance from NYU - TIsch and B.F.A in Dance from Wright State University. Brief Statement of Teaching Philosophy: Classical ballet, the first perception upon contemplating this artform is often adverse for students and educators respectively as it has a history of many negative connotations, experiences, biases, ideals, to say the least, associated with it. Over the years of educating, my goal as an artistic guide, technician, and classical ballet instructor is to re-awaken the students’ perceptions of the beautiful, boundless opportunities, in exploration as well as discovery within this artform upon entering my classroom. As we explore various combinations, I am meticulous about reaffirming proper terminology (applying the Technical Manual and Dictionary of Classical Ballet as well as other reputable resources) associated with each step that I present to the learning/evolving artists. I utilize tactile prompts, anatomical imagery, sensory imagery, research, as well as historical references to enhance the students’ learning experience, growth, and enlightenment within my ballet classes. Although we work intensely within classical ballet, I often remind the students to enjoy creating art, it is essentially, a gift. During classes, I continuously pay homage to the space, it’s breath of history… I also honor the students of which glean from the wealth of information and knowledge that has been poured into me from prestigious institutions and ballet companies.
Lisa Podnar
Choreography Showing Artist
Lisa Podnar is alumni of Wayne State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Dance Education. Throughout her experience at Wayne State, Lisa has done performances under Adesola Akinleye and Marc Arthur. Along with her degree, Lisa has also received certifications with organizations such as the Cecchetti Council of America, iTap Online, Progressing Ballet Technique, and Acrobatic Arts to aid her students she has taught in the studio setting for about 10 years. She is also a part of two dance companies Detroit Tap Repertory and Diversiform Dance Project and was a former member of Dance Uprising! Recently her choreography "Electric Dissonance" was featured in Oakland Dance Festival's show in 2024 and she continues to cultivate works with Diversiform. She hopes to continue her education outside of her college experiences and develop as both an artist and instructor.
Lisa Podnar is alumni of Wayne State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Dance Education. Throughout her experience at Wayne State, Lisa has done performances under Adesola Akinleye and Marc Arthur. Along with her degree, Lisa has also received certifications with organizations such as the Cecchetti Council of America, iTap Online, Progressing Ballet Technique, and Acrobatic Arts to aid her students she has taught in the studio setting for about 10 years. She is also a part of two dance companies Detroit Tap Repertory and Diversiform Dance Project and was a former member of Dance Uprising! Recently her choreography "Electric Dissonance" was featured in Oakland Dance Festival's show in 2024 and she continues to cultivate works with Diversiform. She hopes to continue her education outside of her college experiences and develop as both an artist and instructor.
Breakin’ Ballet
Choreography Showing Artists
Joy and Aerick are dancers, instructors, and choreographers based out of Kalamazoo, Mi. Aerick is the founder of Breaking crew Kalamacrew and both Joy and Aerick are the founder of Move with Joy dance, yoga, pilates studio which recently won an award for the best dance studio in Kalamazoo, Mi. Joy and Aerick together started the Breakin' ballet all styles dance company in 2020 and have been choreographing together ever since. Joy's training focused in ballet, lyrical, jazz and acro combined with Aerick's hip hop and breaking foundation create a unique blend of movement, that they teach together in their Breakin' Ballet all styles dance class. Artist Statement: Stargazing is a reflection on loving and cherishing those in our lives who have been there all along. At times, just like the yellow dandelion who may be seen as a weed due to its staying ability, is a beautiful healing flower that when appreciated brings more magic into our lives. Take a moment and noticed those in your life today those that are around you, that choose to keep coming back and being a part of your life. Find gratitude for the love and magic that has been right here, all along.
Joy and Aerick are dancers, instructors, and choreographers based out of Kalamazoo, Mi. Aerick is the founder of Breaking crew Kalamacrew and both Joy and Aerick are the founder of Move with Joy dance, yoga, pilates studio which recently won an award for the best dance studio in Kalamazoo, Mi. Joy and Aerick together started the Breakin' ballet all styles dance company in 2020 and have been choreographing together ever since. Joy's training focused in ballet, lyrical, jazz and acro combined with Aerick's hip hop and breaking foundation create a unique blend of movement, that they teach together in their Breakin' Ballet all styles dance class. Artist Statement: Stargazing is a reflection on loving and cherishing those in our lives who have been there all along. At times, just like the yellow dandelion who may be seen as a weed due to its staying ability, is a beautiful healing flower that when appreciated brings more magic into our lives. Take a moment and noticed those in your life today those that are around you, that choose to keep coming back and being a part of your life. Find gratitude for the love and magic that has been right here, all along.
Sayiga Eugene Peabody / CPR Dance
Professional Showcase Artist and Master Class Presenter
Sayiga Eugene Peabody Stevensville, MI U.S.A., of Liberian descent. Peabody began his movement training as a gymnast at age 11 and later fell in love with dance while working with Nancy Myers Gitlin, a protegé of jazz dance pioneer, Frank Hatchett (Broadway Dance Center, NYC). A member of the inaugural class of Berrien County Dancers, southwest Michigan’s premier high school conservatory dance program, he trained in modern technique with Theresa Cozzi Graziano. Peabody also trained in ballet with Rhonda Rabbers’ at Dance Arts, and competed Tap and Jazz with Deb Knuth at Sawyer Dance Academy. Some professional credits include: Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, DanceWorks Chicago, Luna Negra Dance Theater. T.V.: Fosse/Verdon Series on FX, Andy Blankenbeuler choreography. Theater: Disney’s The Lion King (Rafiki Tour), An American In Paris (1st National Tour Broadway), Maria De Buenos Aires (Chicago Opera Theater), Cats, Anything Goes, Sister Act, and Evita (Marriott Lincolnshire). Peabody has worked on faculty at Broadway Dance Center (NYC), Ballet Hispanico, and several performing arts high schools in N.Y.C. and Chicago. A former youth program director and master teacher worldwide, Peabody lives to inspire and share his passion for movement with aspiring artists.
Sayiga Eugene Peabody Stevensville, MI U.S.A., of Liberian descent. Peabody began his movement training as a gymnast at age 11 and later fell in love with dance while working with Nancy Myers Gitlin, a protegé of jazz dance pioneer, Frank Hatchett (Broadway Dance Center, NYC). A member of the inaugural class of Berrien County Dancers, southwest Michigan’s premier high school conservatory dance program, he trained in modern technique with Theresa Cozzi Graziano. Peabody also trained in ballet with Rhonda Rabbers’ at Dance Arts, and competed Tap and Jazz with Deb Knuth at Sawyer Dance Academy. Some professional credits include: Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, DanceWorks Chicago, Luna Negra Dance Theater. T.V.: Fosse/Verdon Series on FX, Andy Blankenbeuler choreography. Theater: Disney’s The Lion King (Rafiki Tour), An American In Paris (1st National Tour Broadway), Maria De Buenos Aires (Chicago Opera Theater), Cats, Anything Goes, Sister Act, and Evita (Marriott Lincolnshire). Peabody has worked on faculty at Broadway Dance Center (NYC), Ballet Hispanico, and several performing arts high schools in N.Y.C. and Chicago. A former youth program director and master teacher worldwide, Peabody lives to inspire and share his passion for movement with aspiring artists.
Macks Kreps / Cloudmoon Dance
Local Artist
Macks Kreps’ (they/them) love and passion for dance instruction, choreography, and performance, began at a local studio in south-east Michigan where they trained competitively in an array of styles. Macks’ dance education also includes time spent training with Joffrey Ballet Chicago, Kansas City Ballet, and the Russian Ballet Academy of Michigan/Academy of Russian Classical Ballet. Macks attended Eastern Michigan University on scholarship and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA in Dance Performance. In addition to teaching a variety of styles at various local southern Michigan dance studios, Macks strives to share their love of dance and movement with as many people as possible and does this through their leadership in Ballet Chelsea’s Adaptive Dance Program, where they instruct dance and movement therapy classes for folks of all ages and abilities across Washtenaw County.
Macks Kreps’ (they/them) love and passion for dance instruction, choreography, and performance, began at a local studio in south-east Michigan where they trained competitively in an array of styles. Macks’ dance education also includes time spent training with Joffrey Ballet Chicago, Kansas City Ballet, and the Russian Ballet Academy of Michigan/Academy of Russian Classical Ballet. Macks attended Eastern Michigan University on scholarship and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA in Dance Performance. In addition to teaching a variety of styles at various local southern Michigan dance studios, Macks strives to share their love of dance and movement with as many people as possible and does this through their leadership in Ballet Chelsea’s Adaptive Dance Program, where they instruct dance and movement therapy classes for folks of all ages and abilities across Washtenaw County.
Robin Davis / The Human Experience Dance Project
Professional Showcase Artist
A Chicago-based dance artist, Robin Davis (she/they) was born in North Carolina where she attended University of North Carolina School of the Arts after which they attended New York University Tisch School of the Arts. During her time as a dance artist in Chicago they have had the pleasure of working with Meadows Dance Collective, Darvin Dances, Red Clay Dance Company and Winifred Haun & Dancers. They presented work at DanceChance, Jello, Common Ground, Khecari's Resource Share Residency and First Draft. Most recently they self-produced an evening-length show ‘Come Along With Me’ presenting their choreographic work STRANGEBIRD. ARTISTIC STATEMENT : I am curious about the intersection of the individuality of personal identity juxtaposed against the sameness of collective human experience. If a picture is worth a thousand words, how much more can moving bodies in space say? My work is primarily shaped by the multitudes of my identity, equally important is the contribution of my collaborators who bring their own interpretations and interjections. What stories can we create and explore together? Can we value the process as much as the product? My movement is generated through improvisation and characterized by a commitment to the visceral, vigorous, and expressive. A value of curiosity past the ends of the dance community. How can we radically lift the voices of the unheard? The queer, brown and black, poor, the disabled? What does creative problem-solving look like in the context of dance? How can we use dance as a tool to help and heal the world? I am passionate about co-building equitably sustainable art communities and the power of dance and art as essential sources of community and communication. Classically trained as a modern, ballet and contemporary dancer and inspired by the natural biomechanics of the human body and the symbolic capacity of dance, movement becomes a language of authentic self-expression for me.
A Chicago-based dance artist, Robin Davis (she/they) was born in North Carolina where she attended University of North Carolina School of the Arts after which they attended New York University Tisch School of the Arts. During her time as a dance artist in Chicago they have had the pleasure of working with Meadows Dance Collective, Darvin Dances, Red Clay Dance Company and Winifred Haun & Dancers. They presented work at DanceChance, Jello, Common Ground, Khecari's Resource Share Residency and First Draft. Most recently they self-produced an evening-length show ‘Come Along With Me’ presenting their choreographic work STRANGEBIRD. ARTISTIC STATEMENT : I am curious about the intersection of the individuality of personal identity juxtaposed against the sameness of collective human experience. If a picture is worth a thousand words, how much more can moving bodies in space say? My work is primarily shaped by the multitudes of my identity, equally important is the contribution of my collaborators who bring their own interpretations and interjections. What stories can we create and explore together? Can we value the process as much as the product? My movement is generated through improvisation and characterized by a commitment to the visceral, vigorous, and expressive. A value of curiosity past the ends of the dance community. How can we radically lift the voices of the unheard? The queer, brown and black, poor, the disabled? What does creative problem-solving look like in the context of dance? How can we use dance as a tool to help and heal the world? I am passionate about co-building equitably sustainable art communities and the power of dance and art as essential sources of community and communication. Classically trained as a modern, ballet and contemporary dancer and inspired by the natural biomechanics of the human body and the symbolic capacity of dance, movement becomes a language of authentic self-expression for me.
Tamara Tucker-Ibarisha
Master Class Presenter
Tamara Tucker-Ibarisha is an artist who has a passion for movement, rhythm, and tradition. With over two decades of dedicated study and performance, she has immersed herself in the vibrant traditions of Congolese dance, music, and drumming under the masterful direction of Biza Sompa as a core member of the Bichini Bia Congo Dance Theater Company. Her training also includes West and East (Kenyan) African dance styles which she brings to bear in her creative work outside of Bichini Bia Congo.
Tamara Tucker-Ibarisha is an artist who has a passion for movement, rhythm, and tradition. With over two decades of dedicated study and performance, she has immersed herself in the vibrant traditions of Congolese dance, music, and drumming under the masterful direction of Biza Sompa as a core member of the Bichini Bia Congo Dance Theater Company. Her training also includes West and East (Kenyan) African dance styles which she brings to bear in her creative work outside of Bichini Bia Congo.
Winifred Haun
Professional Showcase Artist and Master Class Presenter
Amber Casillas / Atelier Dance Company
Choreography Showing Artists
Amber (she/her) grew up dancing and has never stopped. She enjoys all styles of dance, but is particularly fond of the rhythms of tap and the freedom that contemporary brings. She was the director of a local studio for 10 years where she was blessed with wonderful dancers and fellow teachers. She is now a proud member of Atelier Dance Company where she has had the honor of performing for Moms Demand Action “Wear Orange” event, DaCi, the Detroit City Dance Festival, and Festival of the Arts. She is also teaches dance to adults of all skill levels at Midwest Movement Collective in Grand Rapids.
Amber (she/her) grew up dancing and has never stopped. She enjoys all styles of dance, but is particularly fond of the rhythms of tap and the freedom that contemporary brings. She was the director of a local studio for 10 years where she was blessed with wonderful dancers and fellow teachers. She is now a proud member of Atelier Dance Company where she has had the honor of performing for Moms Demand Action “Wear Orange” event, DaCi, the Detroit City Dance Festival, and Festival of the Arts. She is also teaches dance to adults of all skill levels at Midwest Movement Collective in Grand Rapids.
Movement Reservoir Dance Company
Professional Showcase Artist
Movement Reservoir Dance Company was founded by Lachan Niedbala in 2022 to provide a creative outlet for dance artists, to help build a dance community that supports artists in their endeavors, and to increase opportunities for the Kalamazoo community and beyond to experience dance from multiple voices.
Movement Reservoir strives to create a place for artists to express their artistic voices through dance while challenging themselves to grow in an uplifting environment. Additionally, it provides the Kalamazoo area (and beyond) with more opportunities to experience dance from various artists throughout the Midwest.
Movement Reservoir Dance Company was founded by Lachan Niedbala in 2022 to provide a creative outlet for dance artists, to help build a dance community that supports artists in their endeavors, and to increase opportunities for the Kalamazoo community and beyond to experience dance from multiple voices.
Movement Reservoir strives to create a place for artists to express their artistic voices through dance while challenging themselves to grow in an uplifting environment. Additionally, it provides the Kalamazoo area (and beyond) with more opportunities to experience dance from various artists throughout the Midwest.
Ma 間 collective
Dance Film Artist
Ma 間 Collective Statement Creating a new work in response to an installation seemed like an interesting new avenue for collaboration across art forms. Performances in museums typically occur in one of two settings: either independent of the event, where the gallery space, installation, artwork serves as merely a backdrop for viewing a performance. Or, created in conjunction with the artist, inextricably now linking the two. One cannot exist without the other. In our case, the installation served as inspiration for a new work. Ma 間 collective responded to the negative space between the bones and the tulle to make visible the relationship between past and present.
Ma 間 Collective Statement Creating a new work in response to an installation seemed like an interesting new avenue for collaboration across art forms. Performances in museums typically occur in one of two settings: either independent of the event, where the gallery space, installation, artwork serves as merely a backdrop for viewing a performance. Or, created in conjunction with the artist, inextricably now linking the two. One cannot exist without the other. In our case, the installation served as inspiration for a new work. Ma 間 collective responded to the negative space between the bones and the tulle to make visible the relationship between past and present.
Nicole Heikkila-Popkins
Choreography Showing Artist
Nicole (she/they) has been dancing for over 25 years in various styles of dance. Most recently she serves as Assistant Director of Dance Uprising (Ann Arbor, MI) and was previously a dancer/ choreographer with Diversiform Dance Project (Rochester, MI). Nicole has taught and created dances for dancers of various age groups(from pre-schoolers to adults) and loves to share the art anc creativity of dance and movement. Nicole recieved their bachelors degrees in both theatre and dance from Wayne State University (Detroit, MI) and is currently back at her alma mater in the Masters of Arts i Teaching Artistry graduate track. Nicole loves sharing how to make dance and the world a more accessible place for disabled people & last year presented two topics at NDEO's virtual Dance & Disability webinar. When not daning, Nicole works in theatre arts, teaching dance around southeast Michigan and relaxing with their husband, Max, and their cat.
Nicole (she/they) has been dancing for over 25 years in various styles of dance. Most recently she serves as Assistant Director of Dance Uprising (Ann Arbor, MI) and was previously a dancer/ choreographer with Diversiform Dance Project (Rochester, MI). Nicole has taught and created dances for dancers of various age groups(from pre-schoolers to adults) and loves to share the art anc creativity of dance and movement. Nicole recieved their bachelors degrees in both theatre and dance from Wayne State University (Detroit, MI) and is currently back at her alma mater in the Masters of Arts i Teaching Artistry graduate track. Nicole loves sharing how to make dance and the world a more accessible place for disabled people & last year presented two topics at NDEO's virtual Dance & Disability webinar. When not daning, Nicole works in theatre arts, teaching dance around southeast Michigan and relaxing with their husband, Max, and their cat.
Jodie Randolph
Masterclass Instructor
Jodie Randolph is a choreographer and dance educator based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She is a graduate of Jacksonville University where she received her MFA in Choreography.
Jodie served as an adjunct lecturer of dance at Eastern Michigan University and teaches master classes throughout the country. She has taught for companies, colleges, conventions, and festivals including Platinum Dance Experience, Versatile Dance Company, Michigan Dance Project, Detroit Dance City Festival, Brighton Dance Festival, Wayne State University, and Escuela Nacionale de Danza (Santo Domingo). Her students have gone on to study at The Juilliard School, Marymount of Manhattan, Indiana University, Point Park University, University of Michigan, Western Michigan University, and Eastern Michigan University. Her students can be seen working on Broadway, in Sleep No More, and notable companies like Batsheva Dance Company and The New York City Ballet.
Jodie has presented work at esteemed venues across the United States and Caribbean including Hudson Guild Theatre (NYC), Huntington Avenue Theatre (Boston), Music Hall (Detroit), and Palacio de Bellas Artes (Santo Domingo), among others. Jodie's choreography has been commissioned for Brighton Dance Festival (MI), Dance Masters of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, Oakland University (MI), Snow College (UT), and ENDANZA (DR). Her work has been presented at DUMBO Dance Festival (NYC), Boston Contemporary Dance Festival (MA), Brighton Dance Festival (MI), Detroit Dance City Festival (MI), Michigan Dance Festival (MI), Oakland Dance Festival (MI), and EDANCO (Dominican Republic).
In 2012, Jodie started JRD as a platform to showcase her work. This 501c3 organization works on a project basis and contracts dancers from all over the country.
In 2013, as a response to her own quest for dance training and mentorship, Jodie started Young Dancers Initiative, a 501c3 organization that trains and mentors serious students looking toward a future in dance.
Jodie Randolph is a choreographer and dance educator based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She is a graduate of Jacksonville University where she received her MFA in Choreography.
Jodie served as an adjunct lecturer of dance at Eastern Michigan University and teaches master classes throughout the country. She has taught for companies, colleges, conventions, and festivals including Platinum Dance Experience, Versatile Dance Company, Michigan Dance Project, Detroit Dance City Festival, Brighton Dance Festival, Wayne State University, and Escuela Nacionale de Danza (Santo Domingo). Her students have gone on to study at The Juilliard School, Marymount of Manhattan, Indiana University, Point Park University, University of Michigan, Western Michigan University, and Eastern Michigan University. Her students can be seen working on Broadway, in Sleep No More, and notable companies like Batsheva Dance Company and The New York City Ballet.
Jodie has presented work at esteemed venues across the United States and Caribbean including Hudson Guild Theatre (NYC), Huntington Avenue Theatre (Boston), Music Hall (Detroit), and Palacio de Bellas Artes (Santo Domingo), among others. Jodie's choreography has been commissioned for Brighton Dance Festival (MI), Dance Masters of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, Oakland University (MI), Snow College (UT), and ENDANZA (DR). Her work has been presented at DUMBO Dance Festival (NYC), Boston Contemporary Dance Festival (MA), Brighton Dance Festival (MI), Detroit Dance City Festival (MI), Michigan Dance Festival (MI), Oakland Dance Festival (MI), and EDANCO (Dominican Republic).
In 2012, Jodie started JRD as a platform to showcase her work. This 501c3 organization works on a project basis and contracts dancers from all over the country.
In 2013, as a response to her own quest for dance training and mentorship, Jodie started Young Dancers Initiative, a 501c3 organization that trains and mentors serious students looking toward a future in dance.
ConteXture Dance Detroit
Mixed Bill Showcase, Professional Artist
ConteXture Dance Detroit is a non-profit dance company based in Detroit, that was founded in 2014 by artistic director, Tracy Halloran. It is a contemporary modern dance company that is interested in exploring cultural identity and the relationship between artistic expression and the human condition. Its concert works examine themes within human relationships in order to begin a dialogue on why and how we are connected to each other.
ConteXture’s mission, as part of the burgeoning arts explosion in the city, is to explore and expand the urban dance identity of Detroit. Through advanced training and performance opportunities, ConteXture has developed a local corps of professional dancers in an effort to establish Detroit a nationally recognized center of dance.
ConteXture Dance Detroit is a non-profit dance company based in Detroit, that was founded in 2014 by artistic director, Tracy Halloran. It is a contemporary modern dance company that is interested in exploring cultural identity and the relationship between artistic expression and the human condition. Its concert works examine themes within human relationships in order to begin a dialogue on why and how we are connected to each other.
ConteXture’s mission, as part of the burgeoning arts explosion in the city, is to explore and expand the urban dance identity of Detroit. Through advanced training and performance opportunities, ConteXture has developed a local corps of professional dancers in an effort to establish Detroit a nationally recognized center of dance.
Kelly Clair
Professional Showcase Artist
Kelly Clair began her dance training in Metro-Detroit where she fell in love with modern and jazz. Clair has always enjoyed choreographing and has been doing so since the age of 13, presenting solo work on the state and national level through pageantry. She is currently a senior at Eastern Michigan University majoring in dance with a minor in arts management. During her time at Eastern Michigan, she was in works for choreographers such as Joori Jung, Ronald Ford (QWYNTYM), Wendi DuBois, Kathy King, Baira Movement Company, Holly Hobbs, Jillian Hopper, Megan Stuart, Natalia De Miguel Annoni, Kelly Bowker, Andrea Salazar, and Eisenhower Dance Detroit. Additionally, Clair collaborated with international dance photographer Michael Shi on a visual group dance project. She has also choreographed a solo work and three group pieces, one which will present at the 2025 ACDA conference and the EMU Undergraduate Research Symposium. She currently is a teacher at Allegro Dance Studio where she teaches ballet, jazz, and contemporary.
Kelly Clair began her dance training in Metro-Detroit where she fell in love with modern and jazz. Clair has always enjoyed choreographing and has been doing so since the age of 13, presenting solo work on the state and national level through pageantry. She is currently a senior at Eastern Michigan University majoring in dance with a minor in arts management. During her time at Eastern Michigan, she was in works for choreographers such as Joori Jung, Ronald Ford (QWYNTYM), Wendi DuBois, Kathy King, Baira Movement Company, Holly Hobbs, Jillian Hopper, Megan Stuart, Natalia De Miguel Annoni, Kelly Bowker, Andrea Salazar, and Eisenhower Dance Detroit. Additionally, Clair collaborated with international dance photographer Michael Shi on a visual group dance project. She has also choreographed a solo work and three group pieces, one which will present at the 2025 ACDA conference and the EMU Undergraduate Research Symposium. She currently is a teacher at Allegro Dance Studio where she teaches ballet, jazz, and contemporary.
BAIRA MVMNT PHLOSPHY
Professional Showcase Artist
BAIRA MVMNT PHLOSPHY is a multimedia dance theater company co-directed by Shaina and Bryan Baira. The two create and share their choreographic work through live performance, dance film and immersive-virtual-reality experiences. Shaina and Bryan share movement training and workshops for professional dance artists and movers of all levels and experience. Central to all of our work is the fundamental human necessity to be in relationship with others, as well as the need to continuously nourish our connection to self. We create and share our movement culture, artistry and collaborative methods – rooted in Bravery, Awareness and Adaptability – as our contribution to manifesting a listening world.
BAIRA MVMNT PHLOSPHY is a multimedia dance theater company co-directed by Shaina and Bryan Baira. The two create and share their choreographic work through live performance, dance film and immersive-virtual-reality experiences. Shaina and Bryan share movement training and workshops for professional dance artists and movers of all levels and experience. Central to all of our work is the fundamental human necessity to be in relationship with others, as well as the need to continuously nourish our connection to self. We create and share our movement culture, artistry and collaborative methods – rooted in Bravery, Awareness and Adaptability – as our contribution to manifesting a listening world.
Róisín O’Brien
Professional Showcase Artist
Róisín O’Brien is a choreographer from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in South Bend IN, USA. Her expertise lies at the intersections of contemporary dance, ballet and physical & visual theatre. Her choreographic works are comprised of intricate yet propulsive technical sequences, often focusing on group interactions and patterns. She works often in a collaborative way with dancers, bringing out each individual’s unique personality and ability. Her works range from an interest in themes & aesthetics within science fiction, to playful investigations of ballet's form and performance contexts.
Róisín's work has been commissioned for Edinburgh's Hidden Door Festival (2022 & 2023, with composer Rowan McIlvride), shown across Scotland (inc. Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Summerhall & DanceLive festival), and selected for emerging choreographer showcases such as Dance Base's Heads Up programme (Edinburgh, 2017) & Resolution Festival (London, 2018), She was part of L20, an artist attachment programme with The Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh in 2021.
Róisín is also an established dance writer (working across the UK and Europe), freelance arts producer, and qualified yoga teacher.
Róisín O’Brien is a choreographer from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in South Bend IN, USA. Her expertise lies at the intersections of contemporary dance, ballet and physical & visual theatre. Her choreographic works are comprised of intricate yet propulsive technical sequences, often focusing on group interactions and patterns. She works often in a collaborative way with dancers, bringing out each individual’s unique personality and ability. Her works range from an interest in themes & aesthetics within science fiction, to playful investigations of ballet's form and performance contexts.
Róisín's work has been commissioned for Edinburgh's Hidden Door Festival (2022 & 2023, with composer Rowan McIlvride), shown across Scotland (inc. Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Summerhall & DanceLive festival), and selected for emerging choreographer showcases such as Dance Base's Heads Up programme (Edinburgh, 2017) & Resolution Festival (London, 2018), She was part of L20, an artist attachment programme with The Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh in 2021.
Róisín is also an established dance writer (working across the UK and Europe), freelance arts producer, and qualified yoga teacher.
Looking Back On Our 2024 Artists
Kaley Pruitt
Showcase Artist and Master Class Teacher
Pruitt founded her dance company Kaley Pruitt Dance in 2014 in New York City and has created over 30 works for the stage and screen. She is originally from Ketchum, Idaho and is currently an Assistant
Professor of Dance at SUNY Brockport. She received her MFA in Dance & Choreography from University of Wisconsin Milwaukee where she was awarded the Distinguished Graduate Student Fellowship. She holds her BFA in Dance from Florida State University and was a member of their performing group, Dance Repertory Theatre under the direction of Lynda Davis. Pruitt has been commissioned by Steffi Nossen Dance Company, Idaho Dance Theatre, Vision of Sound/Society for New Music, Repertory Dance
Theatre, Wasatch Contemporary Dance Company, Fem Dance Company, Simantikos Dance Chicago, Illinois Shakespeare Festival, and Illinois State University. Additionally, the company has been presented
by: NYS DanceForce, St. Louis Contemporary Dance Festival/ Resilience Dance Company, Take Root at
Green Space, Modern American Dance Company (MADCO) Dare to Dance, Rochester Fringe Festival,
Austin Dance Festival, ACDA National Conference, Mark DeGarmo Dance, Milwaukee Fringe Festival,
WIM Dance Festival, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Dixon Place Theater, Manhattan Movement & Arts Center, Triskelion Arts, Chez Bushwick and The Center for Performance Research, Built on Stilts Martha’s Vineyard, The Secret Theater, Ketchum Arts Commission, and Movement Research. Pruitt has also held faculty positions at Illinois State University, Illinois Wesleyan University, and Steffi Nossen School of Dance. www.kaleypruittdance.com, @kaleypruittdance.
Artist Statement: Kaley Pruitt Dance investigates the nuances of the human experience and explores the intrinsic
communication between bodies in space. The work spans comedic dance theater to abstract concert
aesthetic, film and site-specific work. Pruitt is interested in bringing dance into the public sphere through
interactive and community-based work. Kaley aims to create an environment where the audience shares
new perspectives and experiences kinesthetic empathy through physical and verbal storytelling.
Photo: Zach Lyman
Pruitt founded her dance company Kaley Pruitt Dance in 2014 in New York City and has created over 30 works for the stage and screen. She is originally from Ketchum, Idaho and is currently an Assistant
Professor of Dance at SUNY Brockport. She received her MFA in Dance & Choreography from University of Wisconsin Milwaukee where she was awarded the Distinguished Graduate Student Fellowship. She holds her BFA in Dance from Florida State University and was a member of their performing group, Dance Repertory Theatre under the direction of Lynda Davis. Pruitt has been commissioned by Steffi Nossen Dance Company, Idaho Dance Theatre, Vision of Sound/Society for New Music, Repertory Dance
Theatre, Wasatch Contemporary Dance Company, Fem Dance Company, Simantikos Dance Chicago, Illinois Shakespeare Festival, and Illinois State University. Additionally, the company has been presented
by: NYS DanceForce, St. Louis Contemporary Dance Festival/ Resilience Dance Company, Take Root at
Green Space, Modern American Dance Company (MADCO) Dare to Dance, Rochester Fringe Festival,
Austin Dance Festival, ACDA National Conference, Mark DeGarmo Dance, Milwaukee Fringe Festival,
WIM Dance Festival, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Dixon Place Theater, Manhattan Movement & Arts Center, Triskelion Arts, Chez Bushwick and The Center for Performance Research, Built on Stilts Martha’s Vineyard, The Secret Theater, Ketchum Arts Commission, and Movement Research. Pruitt has also held faculty positions at Illinois State University, Illinois Wesleyan University, and Steffi Nossen School of Dance. www.kaleypruittdance.com, @kaleypruittdance.
Artist Statement: Kaley Pruitt Dance investigates the nuances of the human experience and explores the intrinsic
communication between bodies in space. The work spans comedic dance theater to abstract concert
aesthetic, film and site-specific work. Pruitt is interested in bringing dance into the public sphere through
interactive and community-based work. Kaley aims to create an environment where the audience shares
new perspectives and experiences kinesthetic empathy through physical and verbal storytelling.
Photo: Zach Lyman
Bernard Brown
Showcase Artist
BERNARD BROWN is a performing artist, choreographer, filmmaker, educator, and arts activist working at the crossroads of Blackness, Queerness, and belonging. As artistic director of Bernard Brown/bbmoves, a social justice dance theater company, he choreographs for stage, specific sites, film, and opera. His work has been presented across Africa, Asia, North America, and Europe, including On The Boards, Centre de Developpment Choregraphique La Termitierre, Dance Camera West, American Dance Festival’s ADF Movies by Movers, Institute of Contemporary Art Los Angeles, and Royce Hall, amongst other venues. Commissioning organizations include The City of Los Angeles, UCLA, Santa Monica Symphony, Dance Mission Theater, the Fowler Museum, South Chicago Dance Theater, Lula Washington Dance Theatre II and a host of universities and community organizations. His company made their international performance debut on a US Embassy-sponsored tour to Burkina Faso, West Africa. Brown has developed work in residencies with The Music Center, Johns Hopkins University, Dance Italia, and B Street Theater. For nearly 3 decades, Brown has toured with and performed the choreography of leaders of the dance field including Lula Washington Dance Theatre, David Rousseve/REALITY, Donald McKayle, Rennie Harris, Rudy Perez, Pat Taylor, Doug Elkins, Janessa Clark, and Lucinda Childs, to name a few. By invitation, he has joined casts of productions like the Kennedy Center’s Masters of African American Choreography, Los Angeles Opera’s AIDA, and Robert Wilson’s Letter to a Man with Mikhail Baryshnikov. He is a proud member of the American Guild of Musical Artists. As a sought-after educator, Brown has conducted workshops, lectures, presentations, and master classes internationally, namely in Israel, Burkina Faso, Panama, Malta, and Brazil, and across the US, sharing his inclusive pedagogy. He is a core member of Street Dance Activism and an ongoing collaborator with Dancing Through Prison Walls, an aboltionist project. His activism has been featured in Dance Magazine, the Los Angeles, and New York Times. A first-generation college graduate, he is an Assistant Professor of Dance at Loyola Marymount University, a Certified Katherine Dunham Technique Instructor Candidate, and currently a California Arts Council Established Artist Fellow. The Los Angeles Times has called him “…the incomparable Bernard Brown…”
David B. Arenas @david_b_arenas
BERNARD BROWN is a performing artist, choreographer, filmmaker, educator, and arts activist working at the crossroads of Blackness, Queerness, and belonging. As artistic director of Bernard Brown/bbmoves, a social justice dance theater company, he choreographs for stage, specific sites, film, and opera. His work has been presented across Africa, Asia, North America, and Europe, including On The Boards, Centre de Developpment Choregraphique La Termitierre, Dance Camera West, American Dance Festival’s ADF Movies by Movers, Institute of Contemporary Art Los Angeles, and Royce Hall, amongst other venues. Commissioning organizations include The City of Los Angeles, UCLA, Santa Monica Symphony, Dance Mission Theater, the Fowler Museum, South Chicago Dance Theater, Lula Washington Dance Theatre II and a host of universities and community organizations. His company made their international performance debut on a US Embassy-sponsored tour to Burkina Faso, West Africa. Brown has developed work in residencies with The Music Center, Johns Hopkins University, Dance Italia, and B Street Theater. For nearly 3 decades, Brown has toured with and performed the choreography of leaders of the dance field including Lula Washington Dance Theatre, David Rousseve/REALITY, Donald McKayle, Rennie Harris, Rudy Perez, Pat Taylor, Doug Elkins, Janessa Clark, and Lucinda Childs, to name a few. By invitation, he has joined casts of productions like the Kennedy Center’s Masters of African American Choreography, Los Angeles Opera’s AIDA, and Robert Wilson’s Letter to a Man with Mikhail Baryshnikov. He is a proud member of the American Guild of Musical Artists. As a sought-after educator, Brown has conducted workshops, lectures, presentations, and master classes internationally, namely in Israel, Burkina Faso, Panama, Malta, and Brazil, and across the US, sharing his inclusive pedagogy. He is a core member of Street Dance Activism and an ongoing collaborator with Dancing Through Prison Walls, an aboltionist project. His activism has been featured in Dance Magazine, the Los Angeles, and New York Times. A first-generation college graduate, he is an Assistant Professor of Dance at Loyola Marymount University, a Certified Katherine Dunham Technique Instructor Candidate, and currently a California Arts Council Established Artist Fellow. The Los Angeles Times has called him “…the incomparable Bernard Brown…”
David B. Arenas @david_b_arenas
Simona Di Nardo
Showcase Artist and Master Class Presenter
Simona Di Nardo’s been working as a freelance
choreographer in Italy and abroad. During and after her graduation at the “Accademia Nazionale di Danza” in Rome (Italy), she took part on many occasions as a guest
choreographer, production assistant and maintenance
choreographer. After the research thesis titled: “Assessment of Strength in Pre-Professional Ballet Dancers”, she started
to apply the sports science to the dance performance. It’s possible to resume the main feature of all her own
choreographies in one word: “versatility”. For this reason, she’s studying the training strategies which will let the dancers adapting to each single choreographic delivery, building the dancers performance both artistically and athletically.
Simona Di Nardo’s been working as a freelance
choreographer in Italy and abroad. During and after her graduation at the “Accademia Nazionale di Danza” in Rome (Italy), she took part on many occasions as a guest
choreographer, production assistant and maintenance
choreographer. After the research thesis titled: “Assessment of Strength in Pre-Professional Ballet Dancers”, she started
to apply the sports science to the dance performance. It’s possible to resume the main feature of all her own
choreographies in one word: “versatility”. For this reason, she’s studying the training strategies which will let the dancers adapting to each single choreographic delivery, building the dancers performance both artistically and athletically.
Marisa Bianan
Showcase Artist and Master Class Teacher
Marisa Bianan obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Western Michigan University in April 2018. Through her studies, Marisa had the privilege to work with choreographers including Jeremy Blair, Monique Haley, Carolyn Pavlik, and Brendan Duggan. Since graduating, Marisa has presented various choreographic works in the Midwest including at the 2019 Midwest RADFest and Inaside’s Summer 2022 in-
person/virtual hybrid concert. Recent accolades include becoming a finalist for the 2021 Maggie Allesee Choreography Competition, being commissioned to create a new work for Western Michigan University’s First Year Performance class, which premiered in February 2022, and being accepted into the 2023 + 2024 Detroit Dance City Festival Choreographer’s Showcase. Marisa stepped into the role of Associate Artistic Director with Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers in 2021. 2023-2024 will be Marisa’s sixth season with WSCTD.
Marisa Bianan obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Western Michigan University in April 2018. Through her studies, Marisa had the privilege to work with choreographers including Jeremy Blair, Monique Haley, Carolyn Pavlik, and Brendan Duggan. Since graduating, Marisa has presented various choreographic works in the Midwest including at the 2019 Midwest RADFest and Inaside’s Summer 2022 in-
person/virtual hybrid concert. Recent accolades include becoming a finalist for the 2021 Maggie Allesee Choreography Competition, being commissioned to create a new work for Western Michigan University’s First Year Performance class, which premiered in February 2022, and being accepted into the 2023 + 2024 Detroit Dance City Festival Choreographer’s Showcase. Marisa stepped into the role of Associate Artistic Director with Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers in 2021. 2023-2024 will be Marisa’s sixth season with WSCTD.
Maurice Archer
Intro to Break Dancing for contemporary dancers:
Maurice Archer is a seasoned dance teacher and the driving force behind A2 Breakdance, a platform dedicated to self-expression and youth empowerment since its inception in 2009. With nearly two decades of teaching experience, Maurice has reached over 10,000 students and showcased his artistry through 100 performances at various organizations, events, festivals, and venues. His influence has extended beyond Ann Arbor, resonating with surrounding communities as A2 Breakdance continues to grow in popularity.
At A2 Breakdance, Maurice champions the transformative power of movement, striving to unlock the inner potential of every individual he encounters. His motto, "life is a dance," encapsulates his philosophy of embracing life's rhythms and finding strength, joy, and purpose through movement. Join Maurice on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment through the art of breakdance.
Maurice Archer is a seasoned dance teacher and the driving force behind A2 Breakdance, a platform dedicated to self-expression and youth empowerment since its inception in 2009. With nearly two decades of teaching experience, Maurice has reached over 10,000 students and showcased his artistry through 100 performances at various organizations, events, festivals, and venues. His influence has extended beyond Ann Arbor, resonating with surrounding communities as A2 Breakdance continues to grow in popularity.
At A2 Breakdance, Maurice champions the transformative power of movement, striving to unlock the inner potential of every individual he encounters. His motto, "life is a dance," encapsulates his philosophy of embracing life's rhythms and finding strength, joy, and purpose through movement. Join Maurice on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment through the art of breakdance.
Seyong Kim
Showcase Artist
Seyong Kim, an Associate Professor of Dance at Western Michigan University, holds an MA in Dance Education from NYU Steinhardt and an MA in Dance from Sung-Kyun-Kwan University (Seoul, South Korea). He is a CMA (Certified Movement Analyst) from Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, a RSDE (Registered Somatic Dance Educator), and a PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique) Certified Teacher. Seyong is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Primary through Level 7 of the American Ballet Theatre’s National Training Curriculum. Furthermore, he earned the Diversity and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University.
Seyong has taught for the University of Georgia, Rutgers University, Kent State University, Lindenwood University, Randolph College, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Peridance, Steps On Broadway, Libera University in Italy, World Dance Alliance-America (WDAA), American College Dance Association (ACDA), Cecchetti Council of America, Eisenhower Dance Detroit, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Alabama Dance Festival, Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, West Hawaii Dance Theatre, Chicago Repertory Ballet, South Chicago Dance Theatre, Ballet 5:8, Charlottesville Ballet, Grand Rapids Ballet, and Ballet Preljocaj.
As a professional dancer, Seyong has danced with the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center, Albania National Ballet Theatre, Baltimore Ballet, Traverse City Dance Project, Neglia Ballet, TAKE Dance, and Oakland Ballet Company. In addition, his choreographic works have been internationally invited at Landestheater Coburg in Germany, Florence Dance on Screen Festival in Italy, International Contemporary Dance Festival of Mexico City, Taiwan JueDai Taipei International Dance Festival, ProArteDanza in Canada, Seoul International Dance Festival in TANK, Lebanon International Dance Festival, Battery Dance Festival, Palm Desert Choreography Festival, American Dance Guild Festival, Cleveland Dance Festival, Richmond Dance Festival, Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival, Chicago International Dance Forum, Detroit Dance City Festival, Boston Contemporary Dance Festival, Orlando Contemporary Dance Choreography Festival, Oklahoma International Dance Festival, Breaking Ground Contemporary Dance Festival, Washington International Dance Festival, CrossCurrent Asian-American Dance Festival, and Movement Research at the Judson Church.
Seyong Kim, an Associate Professor of Dance at Western Michigan University, holds an MA in Dance Education from NYU Steinhardt and an MA in Dance from Sung-Kyun-Kwan University (Seoul, South Korea). He is a CMA (Certified Movement Analyst) from Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, a RSDE (Registered Somatic Dance Educator), and a PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique) Certified Teacher. Seyong is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Primary through Level 7 of the American Ballet Theatre’s National Training Curriculum. Furthermore, he earned the Diversity and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University.
Seyong has taught for the University of Georgia, Rutgers University, Kent State University, Lindenwood University, Randolph College, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Peridance, Steps On Broadway, Libera University in Italy, World Dance Alliance-America (WDAA), American College Dance Association (ACDA), Cecchetti Council of America, Eisenhower Dance Detroit, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Alabama Dance Festival, Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, West Hawaii Dance Theatre, Chicago Repertory Ballet, South Chicago Dance Theatre, Ballet 5:8, Charlottesville Ballet, Grand Rapids Ballet, and Ballet Preljocaj.
As a professional dancer, Seyong has danced with the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center, Albania National Ballet Theatre, Baltimore Ballet, Traverse City Dance Project, Neglia Ballet, TAKE Dance, and Oakland Ballet Company. In addition, his choreographic works have been internationally invited at Landestheater Coburg in Germany, Florence Dance on Screen Festival in Italy, International Contemporary Dance Festival of Mexico City, Taiwan JueDai Taipei International Dance Festival, ProArteDanza in Canada, Seoul International Dance Festival in TANK, Lebanon International Dance Festival, Battery Dance Festival, Palm Desert Choreography Festival, American Dance Guild Festival, Cleveland Dance Festival, Richmond Dance Festival, Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival, Chicago International Dance Forum, Detroit Dance City Festival, Boston Contemporary Dance Festival, Orlando Contemporary Dance Choreography Festival, Oklahoma International Dance Festival, Breaking Ground Contemporary Dance Festival, Washington International Dance Festival, CrossCurrent Asian-American Dance Festival, and Movement Research at the Judson Church.
Master Class Teacher
odie Randolph is a choreographer and dance educator based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She is a graduate of Jacksonville University where she received her MFA in Choreography.
Jodie served as an adjunct lecturer of dance at Eastern Michigan University and teaches master classes throughout the country. She has taught for companies, colleges, conventions, and festivals including Platinum Dance Experience, Versatile Dance Company, Michigan Dance Project, Detroit Dance City Festival, Brighton Dance Festival, Wayne State University, and Escuela Nacionale de Danza (Santo Domingo). Her students have gone on to study at The Juilliard School, Marymount of Manhattan, Indiana University, Point Park University, University of Michigan, Western Michigan University, and Eastern Michigan University. Her students can be seen working on Broadway, in Sleep No More, and notable companies like Batsheva Dance Company and The New York City Ballet.
Jodie has presented work at esteemed venues across the United States and Caribbean including Hudson Guild Theatre (NYC), Huntington Avenue Theatre (Boston), Music Hall (Detroit), and Palacio de Bellas Artes (Santo Domingo), among others. Jodie's choreography has been commissioned for Brighton Dance Festival (MI), Dance Masters of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, Oakland University (MI), Snow College (UT), and ENDANZA (DR). Her work has been presented at DUMBO Dance Festival (NYC), Boston Contemporary Dance Festival (MA), Brighton Dance Festival (MI), Detroit Dance City Festival (MI), Michigan Dance Festival (MI), Oakland Dance Festival (MI), and EDANCO (Dominican Republic).
In 2012, Jodie started JRD as a platform to showcase her work. This 501c3 organization works on a project basis and contracts dancers from all over the country.
In 2013, as a response to her own quest for dance training and mentorship, Jodie started Young Dancers Initiative, a 501c3 organization that trains and mentors serious students looking toward a future in dance.
Jodie served as an adjunct lecturer of dance at Eastern Michigan University and teaches master classes throughout the country. She has taught for companies, colleges, conventions, and festivals including Platinum Dance Experience, Versatile Dance Company, Michigan Dance Project, Detroit Dance City Festival, Brighton Dance Festival, Wayne State University, and Escuela Nacionale de Danza (Santo Domingo). Her students have gone on to study at The Juilliard School, Marymount of Manhattan, Indiana University, Point Park University, University of Michigan, Western Michigan University, and Eastern Michigan University. Her students can be seen working on Broadway, in Sleep No More, and notable companies like Batsheva Dance Company and The New York City Ballet.
Jodie has presented work at esteemed venues across the United States and Caribbean including Hudson Guild Theatre (NYC), Huntington Avenue Theatre (Boston), Music Hall (Detroit), and Palacio de Bellas Artes (Santo Domingo), among others. Jodie's choreography has been commissioned for Brighton Dance Festival (MI), Dance Masters of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, Oakland University (MI), Snow College (UT), and ENDANZA (DR). Her work has been presented at DUMBO Dance Festival (NYC), Boston Contemporary Dance Festival (MA), Brighton Dance Festival (MI), Detroit Dance City Festival (MI), Michigan Dance Festival (MI), Oakland Dance Festival (MI), and EDANCO (Dominican Republic).
In 2012, Jodie started JRD as a platform to showcase her work. This 501c3 organization works on a project basis and contracts dancers from all over the country.
In 2013, as a response to her own quest for dance training and mentorship, Jodie started Young Dancers Initiative, a 501c3 organization that trains and mentors serious students looking toward a future in dance.
Sarah Zehnder, Zehnder Dance
Showcase Artist and Master Class Teacher
Research, rooted in feminism, aims to challenge, question, empower, and surprise through the power of the moving body, forming relationships that evoke emotion and attention to the women’s experiences and stories. Zehnder’s choreographic work has been produced internationally, performing in such prestigious festivals as Jacob’s Pillow Inside/Out, Reverb International Dance Festival, Florence Summer Dance (Florence, Italy), Pasadena Dance Festival, DUMBO Dance Festival, the Solo/ Duo Festival, the MAD Festival, Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival, the Women in Dance Project (New York City and Chicago), the Evening of Contemporary Dance Performance Series (NYC), Utica Dance Festival, and Buffalo Dance festival. Her work has been presented at Dixon Place, Ailey Citigroup Theatre, Manhattan Movement and Arts Center, Gowanus Arts,
Triskelion Arts, 92nd Y, Greenspace, and the Center for Performance
Research (CPR). Subsequently, she was awarded the Bossak/Heibron
Charitable Foundation grant to support her research as well as a space
residency at Chen Dance Center. Zehnder was also awarded the Appleton
Grant as well as a Choreographic Fellowship from Mass Cultural Council to support the creation Permeating Voices that Linger, in collaboration with
composer/vocalist Alexandra Ludwig. Most recently, she was awarded a
Research Fellowship through the Jacob's Pillow College Partnership Program for 2023-2024 to support her feminist research. Furthermore, she has shared her choreographic vision as a Guest Artist at Dance New Amsterdam, Gibney
Dance Center, Steps on Broadway, Santa Monica College, Grand Canyon
University, Scottsdale Community College, SUNY Brockport, Bowling Green
State University, University of Toledo, Glendale Community College, University of Northern Colorado, and Queens College. Zehnder currently serves as director of dance at Springfield College.
Research, rooted in feminism, aims to challenge, question, empower, and surprise through the power of the moving body, forming relationships that evoke emotion and attention to the women’s experiences and stories. Zehnder’s choreographic work has been produced internationally, performing in such prestigious festivals as Jacob’s Pillow Inside/Out, Reverb International Dance Festival, Florence Summer Dance (Florence, Italy), Pasadena Dance Festival, DUMBO Dance Festival, the Solo/ Duo Festival, the MAD Festival, Midwest Regional Alternative Dance Festival, the Women in Dance Project (New York City and Chicago), the Evening of Contemporary Dance Performance Series (NYC), Utica Dance Festival, and Buffalo Dance festival. Her work has been presented at Dixon Place, Ailey Citigroup Theatre, Manhattan Movement and Arts Center, Gowanus Arts,
Triskelion Arts, 92nd Y, Greenspace, and the Center for Performance
Research (CPR). Subsequently, she was awarded the Bossak/Heibron
Charitable Foundation grant to support her research as well as a space
residency at Chen Dance Center. Zehnder was also awarded the Appleton
Grant as well as a Choreographic Fellowship from Mass Cultural Council to support the creation Permeating Voices that Linger, in collaboration with
composer/vocalist Alexandra Ludwig. Most recently, she was awarded a
Research Fellowship through the Jacob's Pillow College Partnership Program for 2023-2024 to support her feminist research. Furthermore, she has shared her choreographic vision as a Guest Artist at Dance New Amsterdam, Gibney
Dance Center, Steps on Broadway, Santa Monica College, Grand Canyon
University, Scottsdale Community College, SUNY Brockport, Bowling Green
State University, University of Toledo, Glendale Community College, University of Northern Colorado, and Queens College. Zehnder currently serves as director of dance at Springfield College.
Anya Gustafson
Showcase Artist
Anya Gustafson is a junior at Indiana University from Northville, Michigan. She began her training at Angie Hahn’s Academy of Dance and is currently pursuing her B.F.A. in Contemporary Dance. During her time at IU, Anya has been a part of SLIP (2021 & 2022), New Moves (2022 & 2023), Journeys of Joy (2022), and the Junior Choreographic Performance Project, From the Ground Up (2021). She also has choreographed for shows such as SLIP and Afterimages (JCPP 2023). Outside of the department, Anya acts as the Event Coordinator for the student-led organization,
Movement Cooperative, and is excited to continue her dance education.
Artist Statement:
My work, “Submersion,” is a contemporary dance
composition that was created to transport one into a world of water.
From zooming into the chemical movement of the molecule to the more
broad flow of the body, the work dives into water’s properties and vitality
to life.
Anya Gustafson is a junior at Indiana University from Northville, Michigan. She began her training at Angie Hahn’s Academy of Dance and is currently pursuing her B.F.A. in Contemporary Dance. During her time at IU, Anya has been a part of SLIP (2021 & 2022), New Moves (2022 & 2023), Journeys of Joy (2022), and the Junior Choreographic Performance Project, From the Ground Up (2021). She also has choreographed for shows such as SLIP and Afterimages (JCPP 2023). Outside of the department, Anya acts as the Event Coordinator for the student-led organization,
Movement Cooperative, and is excited to continue her dance education.
Artist Statement:
My work, “Submersion,” is a contemporary dance
composition that was created to transport one into a world of water.
From zooming into the chemical movement of the molecule to the more
broad flow of the body, the work dives into water’s properties and vitality
to life.
Cultivate Dance
Showcase Artist
Cultivate Dance Project (CDP) is a part-time contemporary dance
company with a mission to grow the artist and athlete in each dancer.
We aim to offer an open collaboration and conversation between our
artists, including dancers, choreographers, musicians, and photo/
videographers, that allows each individual to explore their interests and
share their stories through movement while working within a shared artistic community.
Melissa Hinchman founded Cultivate Dance Project in fall of 2018 as a part-time,
creative outlet for adult dancers in the Columbus, Ohio community. As CDP’s
Artistic Director, the work she has set on the company has been a part of local
productions including Columbus Dance Alliance WORKS #2, Cleveland Dance Festival, Ten Tiny Dances Columbus, City Dance Showcase III and IV, Columbus Arts Festival, and New Albany Dance Festival. CDP’s first dance film, Memory Is A Monster was selected to be a part of both Constructed Sight Dance Film Festival
2022 and Cleveland Dance Fest Virtual Film Gallery 2022. Melissa holds a B.F.A. in Dance from The Ohio State University. Her past performance credits include; ensemble dancer in Kings Island’s 2008 live shows, company member of SMAG Dance Collective, and principal dancer with Seven Dance Company. Melissa is currently a full-time dance educator at Columbus DanceArts Academy in Dublin, Ohio.
Cultivate Dance Project (CDP) is a part-time contemporary dance
company with a mission to grow the artist and athlete in each dancer.
We aim to offer an open collaboration and conversation between our
artists, including dancers, choreographers, musicians, and photo/
videographers, that allows each individual to explore their interests and
share their stories through movement while working within a shared artistic community.
Melissa Hinchman founded Cultivate Dance Project in fall of 2018 as a part-time,
creative outlet for adult dancers in the Columbus, Ohio community. As CDP’s
Artistic Director, the work she has set on the company has been a part of local
productions including Columbus Dance Alliance WORKS #2, Cleveland Dance Festival, Ten Tiny Dances Columbus, City Dance Showcase III and IV, Columbus Arts Festival, and New Albany Dance Festival. CDP’s first dance film, Memory Is A Monster was selected to be a part of both Constructed Sight Dance Film Festival
2022 and Cleveland Dance Fest Virtual Film Gallery 2022. Melissa holds a B.F.A. in Dance from The Ohio State University. Her past performance credits include; ensemble dancer in Kings Island’s 2008 live shows, company member of SMAG Dance Collective, and principal dancer with Seven Dance Company. Melissa is currently a full-time dance educator at Columbus DanceArts Academy in Dublin, Ohio.
Movement Reservoir, Choreographer Lachan Niedbala
Showcase Artist
Lachan Niedbala is the Artistic Director and Founder of Movement Reservoir Dance Company, located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Hope College in 2019. While at Hope, she worked with choreographers such as Steven Iannacone, Sharon Wong, Matthew Farmer, and many more. Since graduating, she has worked with companies such as Wellspring/Cori Terry and Dancers, CPR Dance: Inhale Movement, Chamberlain Dance, Tapestry Dance Company, Atelier Dance Company, and various freelance artists. Additionally, she has had the opportunity to take her choreography to Detroit (MI), Chicago (IL), and Paris (France.) Lachan currently teaches at Wellspring Dance Academy where she instructs the Advanced Adult Modern class and is the Coordinator for their Youth Performing Ensemble. Additionally, Lachan has always been passionate about her independent projects. She produced the film series Rooted Movement in 2021, Perspectives Dance Concert in 2022, and formed Movement Reservoir in 2022 to continue producing concerts in the Kalamazoo area and beyond. In addition to her dance career, Lachan is a mother and is passionate about creating a dance career that is compatible with motherhood as both are significant callings to both her and many other women
Lachan Niedbala is the Artistic Director and Founder of Movement Reservoir Dance Company, located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Hope College in 2019. While at Hope, she worked with choreographers such as Steven Iannacone, Sharon Wong, Matthew Farmer, and many more. Since graduating, she has worked with companies such as Wellspring/Cori Terry and Dancers, CPR Dance: Inhale Movement, Chamberlain Dance, Tapestry Dance Company, Atelier Dance Company, and various freelance artists. Additionally, she has had the opportunity to take her choreography to Detroit (MI), Chicago (IL), and Paris (France.) Lachan currently teaches at Wellspring Dance Academy where she instructs the Advanced Adult Modern class and is the Coordinator for their Youth Performing Ensemble. Additionally, Lachan has always been passionate about her independent projects. She produced the film series Rooted Movement in 2021, Perspectives Dance Concert in 2022, and formed Movement Reservoir in 2022 to continue producing concerts in the Kalamazoo area and beyond. In addition to her dance career, Lachan is a mother and is passionate about creating a dance career that is compatible with motherhood as both are significant callings to both her and many other women
Aimee McDonald, Terpsichore Collective
Showcase Artist, Terpsichore Collective
Aimee McDonald is Artistic Director of Terpsichore Collective, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Previously, she headed Terpsichore's Kitchen from 1998-2009, producing the annual Dancing in Summer choreographic showcase, as well as a series of showings and performances. Her work has been shown in the United States, Edinburgh, Scotland, and Montreal. After an extended hiatus from the stage due to motherhood and recovery from an auto accident, she returned as both choreographer and dancer for live stage work and screendance projects. Since relaunching “Terpsichore” in April of 2023, her work has been shown as a guest artist with Atelier Dance Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and at Detroit Dance Collage Festival, Detroit Dance City Festival’s professional showcase, RAD Fest in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the NaChMo Concert, of Southeast Michigan, Ann Arbor Dance Network’s Launch event, and at numerous studio showings. She is a founding member of Ann Arbor Dance Network, which supports professional contemporary dance performance, collaboration, and higher level class opportunities for the Ann Arbor area. Aimee received her BFA in Dance from the University of Michigan and is a Gyrotonic® and Gyrokinesis® Master Trainer
Photo: Christina Marie Sears
Aimee McDonald is Artistic Director of Terpsichore Collective, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Previously, she headed Terpsichore's Kitchen from 1998-2009, producing the annual Dancing in Summer choreographic showcase, as well as a series of showings and performances. Her work has been shown in the United States, Edinburgh, Scotland, and Montreal. After an extended hiatus from the stage due to motherhood and recovery from an auto accident, she returned as both choreographer and dancer for live stage work and screendance projects. Since relaunching “Terpsichore” in April of 2023, her work has been shown as a guest artist with Atelier Dance Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and at Detroit Dance Collage Festival, Detroit Dance City Festival’s professional showcase, RAD Fest in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the NaChMo Concert, of Southeast Michigan, Ann Arbor Dance Network’s Launch event, and at numerous studio showings. She is a founding member of Ann Arbor Dance Network, which supports professional contemporary dance performance, collaboration, and higher level class opportunities for the Ann Arbor area. Aimee received her BFA in Dance from the University of Michigan and is a Gyrotonic® and Gyrokinesis® Master Trainer
Photo: Christina Marie Sears
Rowan Janusiak, Terpsichore Collective
Showcase Artist
Currently based in Ann Arbor, MI, Rowan Janusiak (they/them) is a queer, interdisciplinary artist creating work that stimulates audiences to question societal standards imposed around pleasure and play. They are a recent graduate of the University of Michigan with a dual degree in Dance and Applied Exercise Science. Their recent endeavors include presenting their choreographic work at the Detroit Dance City Festival and Midwest RAD Fest, serving as Event Manager for Embody Dance Conference, and performing as a drag artist, creating otherworldly makeup and fashion looks while exercising their dance training and raw performance quality on the stage. To learn more about Rowan you can visit their website at https://rowanjanusiak.wixsite.com/howdyrowan or follow them on Instagram @howdyrowan. Photo by Kirk Donaldson
Currently based in Ann Arbor, MI, Rowan Janusiak (they/them) is a queer, interdisciplinary artist creating work that stimulates audiences to question societal standards imposed around pleasure and play. They are a recent graduate of the University of Michigan with a dual degree in Dance and Applied Exercise Science. Their recent endeavors include presenting their choreographic work at the Detroit Dance City Festival and Midwest RAD Fest, serving as Event Manager for Embody Dance Conference, and performing as a drag artist, creating otherworldly makeup and fashion looks while exercising their dance training and raw performance quality on the stage. To learn more about Rowan you can visit their website at https://rowanjanusiak.wixsite.com/howdyrowan or follow them on Instagram @howdyrowan. Photo by Kirk Donaldson
Mackenzie Kalinowski, Terpsichore Collective
Showcase Artist
Mackenzie Kalinowski is originally from Bangor, Michigan and graduated from Hope College in 2022 with a BA in Dance Performance and Choreography and a minor in Business. Mackenzie was previously a member of DDCDances under the instruction of Barbara Selinger but has had the privilege of training under many talented instructors including Sharon Wong, Tracy Dunbar, Crystal Frazier, Matthew Farmer, Jasmine Mejia and Julie Powell. Mackenzie was also previously a company member of the H2 Dance Company, as well as StrikeTime Dance Theater where she had the pleasure of performing works for child audiences as well as being a part of a children’s TV miniseries. Mackenzie has choreographed for many shows including Student Dance Showcases, Anchor Film Festival, Ballet Club, Perspective Dance Concert, as well as a special project for the West Michigan Symphony. In the summer of 2022, she had privilege of studying and performing in Paris at The Centre de Danse du Marais. Mackenzie is currently an Assistant Theater Technician at The Village Theater and was previously a part of the Performing Arts Technician Staff at Hope College where she served as Assistant Lighting Designer for Eric Van Tassel on the shows Ordinary Days and Eurydice, as well as Head Electrician for the show Bright Star. In the fall of 2021, she served as stage manager and head lighting designer for Hope College’s ‘Ballet Movement Lab’ production Sunday in the Snow. Along with this Mackenzie was a part of the Hope Summer Repertory Theatre Company in 2021 as the Electrics Intern and served as Assistant Lightning Designer for Katy Atwell on the production of Children of a Lesser God. Photo by Kirk Donaldson.
Mackenzie Kalinowski is originally from Bangor, Michigan and graduated from Hope College in 2022 with a BA in Dance Performance and Choreography and a minor in Business. Mackenzie was previously a member of DDCDances under the instruction of Barbara Selinger but has had the privilege of training under many talented instructors including Sharon Wong, Tracy Dunbar, Crystal Frazier, Matthew Farmer, Jasmine Mejia and Julie Powell. Mackenzie was also previously a company member of the H2 Dance Company, as well as StrikeTime Dance Theater where she had the pleasure of performing works for child audiences as well as being a part of a children’s TV miniseries. Mackenzie has choreographed for many shows including Student Dance Showcases, Anchor Film Festival, Ballet Club, Perspective Dance Concert, as well as a special project for the West Michigan Symphony. In the summer of 2022, she had privilege of studying and performing in Paris at The Centre de Danse du Marais. Mackenzie is currently an Assistant Theater Technician at The Village Theater and was previously a part of the Performing Arts Technician Staff at Hope College where she served as Assistant Lighting Designer for Eric Van Tassel on the shows Ordinary Days and Eurydice, as well as Head Electrician for the show Bright Star. In the fall of 2021, she served as stage manager and head lighting designer for Hope College’s ‘Ballet Movement Lab’ production Sunday in the Snow. Along with this Mackenzie was a part of the Hope Summer Repertory Theatre Company in 2021 as the Electrics Intern and served as Assistant Lightning Designer for Katy Atwell on the production of Children of a Lesser God. Photo by Kirk Donaldson.
Róisín O'Brien
Showcase Artist
Róisín O’Brien is a choreographer from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in South Bend IN, USA. Her expertise lies at the intersections of contemporary dance, ballet and physical & visual theatre. Her choreographic works are comprised of intricate yet propulsive technical sequences, often focusing on group interactions and patterns. She works often in a collaborative way with dancers, bringing out each individual’s unique personality and ability. Her works range from an interest in themes & aesthetics within science fiction, to playful investigations of ballet's form and performance contexts.
Róisín's work has been commissioned for Edinburgh's Hidden Door Festival (2022 & 2023, with composer Rowan McIlvride), shown across Scotland (inc. Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Summerhall & DanceLive festival), and selected for emerging choreographer showcases such as Dance Base's Heads Up programme (Edinburgh, 2017) & Resolution Festival (London, 2018), She was part of L20, an artist attachment programme with The Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh in 2021.
Róisín is also an established dance writer (working across the UK and Europe), freelance arts producer, and qualified yoga teacher.
Photo by Max Crawford
Róisín O’Brien is a choreographer from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in South Bend IN, USA. Her expertise lies at the intersections of contemporary dance, ballet and physical & visual theatre. Her choreographic works are comprised of intricate yet propulsive technical sequences, often focusing on group interactions and patterns. She works often in a collaborative way with dancers, bringing out each individual’s unique personality and ability. Her works range from an interest in themes & aesthetics within science fiction, to playful investigations of ballet's form and performance contexts.
Róisín's work has been commissioned for Edinburgh's Hidden Door Festival (2022 & 2023, with composer Rowan McIlvride), shown across Scotland (inc. Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Summerhall & DanceLive festival), and selected for emerging choreographer showcases such as Dance Base's Heads Up programme (Edinburgh, 2017) & Resolution Festival (London, 2018), She was part of L20, an artist attachment programme with The Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh in 2021.
Róisín is also an established dance writer (working across the UK and Europe), freelance arts producer, and qualified yoga teacher.
Photo by Max Crawford
BAIRA MVMNT PHLOSPHY
Showcase Artist and Master Class Teachers
BAIRA MVMNT PHLOSPHY is a multimedia dance theater company co-directed by Shaina and Bryan Baira. The two create and share their choreographic work through live performance, dance film and immersive-virtual-reality experiences. Shaina and Bryan share movement training and workshops for professional dance artists and movers of all levels and experience. Central to all of our work is the fundamental human necessity to be in relationship with others, as well as the need to continuously nourish our connection to self. We create and share our movement culture, artistry and collaborative methods – rooted in Bravery, Awareness and Adaptability – as our contribution to manifesting a listening world.
BAIRA MVMNT PHLOSPHY is a multimedia dance theater company co-directed by Shaina and Bryan Baira. The two create and share their choreographic work through live performance, dance film and immersive-virtual-reality experiences. Shaina and Bryan share movement training and workshops for professional dance artists and movers of all levels and experience. Central to all of our work is the fundamental human necessity to be in relationship with others, as well as the need to continuously nourish our connection to self. We create and share our movement culture, artistry and collaborative methods – rooted in Bravery, Awareness and Adaptability – as our contribution to manifesting a listening world.
Winifred Haun
Showcase Artist and Master Class Teacher
Winifred Haun is the founder, choreographer and artistic director of her own professional contemporary dance company, Winifred Haun & Dancers. Since the 1990’s, Wini has created over 60 new dance works, including one full length ballet. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her choreography, including a 2022 3Arts Award, a 2016 MacArthur Foundation Award, and a 2019 “Best in Class Award” from the Oak Park Area Arts Council. In 2014, she was selected by the Martha Graham Dance Company to participate in their Lamentation Variation project. Wini won three Ruth Page (Chicago Dance) Award nominations for Choreography and Performance and in 2000, she won the Ruth Page Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Dance Community for creating and directing Chicago’s NEXT Dance Festival. From 2020 to 2023, her work “Light in Winter” was presented three times at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Unity Temple’s Performing Arts Series to great audience and critical acclaim.
Wini performed, toured, and conducted dance residencies with the Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance Theatre, under the direction of Randy Duncan from 1985 to 1992. Currently, she teaches modern dance and ballet at Maywood Fine Arts in Maywood, IL, and Legere Dance Center in River Forest, IL. Wini has conducted numerous dance residencies and workshops, locally, nationally and internationally. She was a modern dance instructor at Hubbard St. Dance Center for over 14 years.
Winifred Haun is the founder, choreographer and artistic director of her own professional contemporary dance company, Winifred Haun & Dancers. Since the 1990’s, Wini has created over 60 new dance works, including one full length ballet. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her choreography, including a 2022 3Arts Award, a 2016 MacArthur Foundation Award, and a 2019 “Best in Class Award” from the Oak Park Area Arts Council. In 2014, she was selected by the Martha Graham Dance Company to participate in their Lamentation Variation project. Wini won three Ruth Page (Chicago Dance) Award nominations for Choreography and Performance and in 2000, she won the Ruth Page Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Dance Community for creating and directing Chicago’s NEXT Dance Festival. From 2020 to 2023, her work “Light in Winter” was presented three times at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Unity Temple’s Performing Arts Series to great audience and critical acclaim.
Wini performed, toured, and conducted dance residencies with the Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance Theatre, under the direction of Randy Duncan from 1985 to 1992. Currently, she teaches modern dance and ballet at Maywood Fine Arts in Maywood, IL, and Legere Dance Center in River Forest, IL. Wini has conducted numerous dance residencies and workshops, locally, nationally and internationally. She was a modern dance instructor at Hubbard St. Dance Center for over 14 years.
CPR Dance Inhale Movement
Showcase Artist
Carolyn Pampalone Rabbers is the Executive Artistic Director and founder of CPR Dance: Inhale Movement. She received her MFA at the University of the Arts and graduated as the Presidential Scholar with a BFA from Western Michigan University. Carolyn has danced in NYC, Miami, LA and Michigan dancing and acting both on stage and on camera. Her dance-based works have been featured nationally and internationally, have been a finalist for Maggie Allessee’s Choreography Competition, and awarded support in a KADI grant of the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo. She can be seen as ‘Abby’ in Moondance (2020) and has performed for Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers, Coldplay, Omi, Starbucks, Jockey Bra, Kaplan University, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Diavolo EdCo, Mariana Olivera, Clairobscur, LACDC, Nickerson-Rossi Dance, and Vox Lumiere.
Carolyn teaches adjunctly at Grand Valley State University, Western Michigan University, and at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. She has also taught for The Gabriella Foundation, honored by Michelle Obama in 2015. She is certified as an ABT NTC instructor in Pre-Primary through Level VII & Partnering. She also holds certifications in PBT, PCT, ISTD Contemporary, Reiki and Yoga.
Carolyn Pampalone Rabbers is the Executive Artistic Director and founder of CPR Dance: Inhale Movement. She received her MFA at the University of the Arts and graduated as the Presidential Scholar with a BFA from Western Michigan University. Carolyn has danced in NYC, Miami, LA and Michigan dancing and acting both on stage and on camera. Her dance-based works have been featured nationally and internationally, have been a finalist for Maggie Allessee’s Choreography Competition, and awarded support in a KADI grant of the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo. She can be seen as ‘Abby’ in Moondance (2020) and has performed for Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers, Coldplay, Omi, Starbucks, Jockey Bra, Kaplan University, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Diavolo EdCo, Mariana Olivera, Clairobscur, LACDC, Nickerson-Rossi Dance, and Vox Lumiere.
Carolyn teaches adjunctly at Grand Valley State University, Western Michigan University, and at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. She has also taught for The Gabriella Foundation, honored by Michelle Obama in 2015. She is certified as an ABT NTC instructor in Pre-Primary through Level VII & Partnering. She also holds certifications in PBT, PCT, ISTD Contemporary, Reiki and Yoga.
Heather Banet
Showcase Artist
Disabled Dance Artist, Heather Friese Banet, specializes in contemporary, jazz, improvisation, and somatic movement. She directed the Frelon Dance Company at Kalamazoo College for three years, while she also received training in Nia dance and Inspire Somatic Education, learning how to make dance accessible to people of all ages. After a lifelong devotion to dance, the onset of problems at age 20 caused by a genetic disability (Bertolotti Syndrome) resulted in Heather reconsidering what the dance world had taught her about what it means to be a dancer. While no longer being able to dance standing, Heather turned to seated and lying down dance. She created a full feature film, Pain Raised Me, which features Heather dancing lying down and seated. She went on to train with Stop Gap Dance Company to become an inclusive dance teacher, and now she teaches dance to disabled and non-disabled people virtually and in person in the Ann Arbor area. Heather enjoys the creative opportunity to collaborate with other disabled and non-disabled dancers, and to help predominantly non-disabled dance spaces become inclusive.
Artist Statement:
I see my art as a way to bring disabled and non-disabled people together to explore themes of humanity in one space. Dance is a powerful way to connect with Spirit, engage the body, feel joy, and process sadness and difficult emotions.
Disabled Dance Artist, Heather Friese Banet, specializes in contemporary, jazz, improvisation, and somatic movement. She directed the Frelon Dance Company at Kalamazoo College for three years, while she also received training in Nia dance and Inspire Somatic Education, learning how to make dance accessible to people of all ages. After a lifelong devotion to dance, the onset of problems at age 20 caused by a genetic disability (Bertolotti Syndrome) resulted in Heather reconsidering what the dance world had taught her about what it means to be a dancer. While no longer being able to dance standing, Heather turned to seated and lying down dance. She created a full feature film, Pain Raised Me, which features Heather dancing lying down and seated. She went on to train with Stop Gap Dance Company to become an inclusive dance teacher, and now she teaches dance to disabled and non-disabled people virtually and in person in the Ann Arbor area. Heather enjoys the creative opportunity to collaborate with other disabled and non-disabled dancers, and to help predominantly non-disabled dance spaces become inclusive.
Artist Statement:
I see my art as a way to bring disabled and non-disabled people together to explore themes of humanity in one space. Dance is a powerful way to connect with Spirit, engage the body, feel joy, and process sadness and difficult emotions.
Erika Stowall
Showcase Artist
Erika ‘Red’ Stowall is an educator, dancer and choreographer residing in Detroit, MI. Red graduated from University of Michigan School of Music Theatre and Dance with a Bachelor in Fine Arts. She is a recipient of the Kresge Artist Fellowship, Applebaum’s Emerging Artist Award as well as Fulbright Hays GPA Study Abroad grant, awarded through the University of Detroit Mercy. Red uses her classical training combined with her background in West African dance,as the foundation of her work. Many of her works explore her real life experiences navigating being a black woman in society. Her work is based on positive portrayal of Black stories and advocating for Black women's voices. Red sees dance as a calling and is passionate about creating performance pieces, which invite conversation on safe spaces for Women of Color, restoration and positive narrative/images of Black communities. She is currently the dance teacher at Martin Luther King High School, in Detroit, her alma mater. Red is the founder and current Artistic Director of Big Red Wall Dance Company. The company has been active since 2011.
Erika ‘Red’ Stowall is an educator, dancer and choreographer residing in Detroit, MI. Red graduated from University of Michigan School of Music Theatre and Dance with a Bachelor in Fine Arts. She is a recipient of the Kresge Artist Fellowship, Applebaum’s Emerging Artist Award as well as Fulbright Hays GPA Study Abroad grant, awarded through the University of Detroit Mercy. Red uses her classical training combined with her background in West African dance,as the foundation of her work. Many of her works explore her real life experiences navigating being a black woman in society. Her work is based on positive portrayal of Black stories and advocating for Black women's voices. Red sees dance as a calling and is passionate about creating performance pieces, which invite conversation on safe spaces for Women of Color, restoration and positive narrative/images of Black communities. She is currently the dance teacher at Martin Luther King High School, in Detroit, her alma mater. Red is the founder and current Artistic Director of Big Red Wall Dance Company. The company has been active since 2011.
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