Artist
Statement

Photo: Elle Photography
From an early age, my deep-rooted passion for dance and performance ignited a sense of purpose within me. No other pursuit, whether it was sports, clubs, or hobbies, could compare to the exhilaration of being on stage and immersing myself in the process of learning and perfecting my craft. Throughout my formative years, having a creative outlet proved vital, as I navigated the demands of a structured and demanding upbringing while striving to excel in multiple areas simultaneously. Balancing a job, honors classes, sports participation, leadership roles in various clubs, and involvement in the theater community alongside dance lessons was undoubtedly overwhelming. However, as soon as I stepped into the studio space, the burdens and anxieties of life dissipated, a sentiment that still resonates with me during my college years.
Over the course of my dance journey, I have been fortunate to choreograph across diverse genres, with a particular focus on modern dance and musical theater. Given the vast array of styles within the dance spectrum, it becomes challenging to confine my artistic style to a single routine or specific movement vocabulary. However, a consistent aspect of my work is the profound connection between movement and either the lyrics or the emotional essence expressed by the accompanying music. If the dancers themselves fail to establish a genuine connection with the music they perform to, it becomes difficult for viewers to find meaning and purpose within the dance. One of my recent creations, "Strenuous Solitude" (2022), premiered at Stockton University's Fall Choreography Project in December. This piece held immense personal significance as it delved into the experience of feeling isolated, even in the presence of loved ones. Crafting my choreography begins with envisioning the final product, considering elements such as costuming, lighting, and spacing. This holistic understanding is pivotal in constructing the movement structure for the dancers and ensuring seamless transitions from foundational building blocks to the incorporation of these additional elements.
Ultimately, I aspire for my choreographic works to elicit a profound emotional response and carry significance within the context of current events and our society. It is my aim to touch the audience on a deeper level, allowing them to experience a range of emotions and engage with the piece's underlying themes and messages.