Meet Lauren | Choreographer of the Year | 2020
Meet Lauren
Choreographer of the Year
Being nominated for Choreographer of the Year is an incredible honor, that frankly still seems a bit surreal. I am truly grateful and my soul feels so full knowing that my work has impacted the world around me.
Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, I trained extensively in all genres at Chesterfield Dance Center and attended Appomattox Regional Governor’s School for dance. I then began teaching tap at CDC when I was 17 years old. After high school, I continued to teach at the studio, and moved to New York every summer to train with world renowned hoofers and immerse myself in the tap community.
Shortly after college, I moved to New York City and worked as a professional tap dancer; performing in numerous shows and venues throughout the five boroughs and continuing to train extensively with such greats as Lynn Schwab, Barbara Duffy, Michelle Dorrance, Danny Wallace, Andrew Nemr, Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, Jason Samuels Smith, Jared Grimes, and many others. Upon moving back to Richmond, I returned to teaching at Chesterfield Dance Center and choreographing for their company, dELRIUM.
Its been said that the word choreography literally means “dance writing.” As a writer of dance, I will say that my process is often not the prettiest, but I love having the ability to speak through movement and sound. Having my voice on display can feel hugely empowering and simultaneously wildly vulnerable.
Music and rhythm drive my choreography, so it’s been my personal challenge to embrace and create corresponding visuals. Choreographing gives me the chance to deeply connect with the music that is at the heart and soul of everything I do. In the way that music moves me to create dance, it’s my utmost hope that my choreography can have a similar impact on those who experience it.
Like all Artists, I often overthink my work, mulling over the infinite possibilities of each phrase. Pushing through the doubt and fear that accompanies every piece is truly a beautiful roller coaster we call creativity. To know that my work resonates with people fills me with immense gratitude. I often say, “I am just me,” and with that - my work is simply an expression of the songs that loop in my head.
I am thankful from the bottom of my heart for this honorable nomination. To the wonderful people who support me and are always in my corner, I could never express the love and appreciation I have for each of you!
A fun fact about me is, my happy place lies at the beach combing for sea glass and listening to music. This is where I’m most at peace.
We are so excited to introduce our featured dancers for the upcoming 2nd annual RVA Dance Awards. The 2020 RVA Dance Awards is a live show that celebrates creativity, leadership and innovation by recognizing excellence within our Central Virginia dance community. This event will be held December 2nd virtually.