I teach in a supportive and encouraging environment while providing clear critique on dance and acting technique. My technical work is Ballet/Horton/Jazz based and I bring my classical training as an actor into all interpretation. I incorporate the specifics of character and subtext into the technical training of dancers. I believe this to be essential to dancers currently attempting to enter most dance markets. In my experience I find that the amount of time in the studio spent on the technical aspects of dance does not balance the amount of acting work necessary to create a complete performance. I seek to help dancers build an emotional vocabulary in the expression of commercial dance styles. One’s dance technique should free the individual to communicate.

I am no stranger to the discipline necessary to run a dance class. I encourage students to work outside of their comfort zone to learn and grow. In NYC so often dance class involves an eye toward “booking the next job.” Dancers often feel pressure to always look perfect. I encourage them to work in the moment with only a cursory eye toward the end result. I believe in mastering each action along one’s journey to achieve the final product; and I always support the student through any awkward periods that ensue during this process.

I have been an instructor of professional dancers for over 20 years and serve as a NYC faculty member of The Ailey School, The Ailey Extension and The Alpha Omega Theatrical Dance Company. Past faculty appointments include The Metropolitan Opera Guild, The American Academy of Dramatic Arts and The Harkness Dance Center. I realize that many actors have limited facility with their physical instrument and many dancers have limited access to their emotional-life when on stage. As both a classically trained actor and an accomplished dancer, I’ve created techniques that blend the two art forms in ways that are rarely seen in the in the classroom and in the industry but are essential to the success of all performers.

Teaching Philosophy