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Artist Statement

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Dance is the source of my joy, it allows me to be fully present and embodied in life. It is through dance that I find the deepest connection to myself and the world around me. As an artist, I see my work as an exploration of the self and historical events. My work offers a platform for connection through the witnessing and performing of movement. I aim to create a space where marginalized individuals can take center stage and challenge traditional gender norms, grow within themselves, and encourage innovation in dance. I am passionate about teaching, mentoring, and supporting newer generations of dancers, particularly those who, like myself, may not have had access to training at a young age. Through my art and teaching endeavors, I seek to promote inclusivity, empowerment, and innovation in the dance community.

Performing Credits

Rush Hour 

Democracy

Ghost

Buying In 

Citizen

Home

West Side Story 

Cats

The Who's "Tommy"

Seussical, the Musical 

Hair

Fame

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Soloist 

Dancer 

Dancer

Dancer

Soloist/Dancer

Dancer

Juano/ Assist. Choreo.

Munkustrap

Hawker

Wickershem Bros/ Yertle

HUD

Tyrone Jackson

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Choreo: Robert Battle 

Choreo: Doug Varone

Choreo: Stefanie Batten Bland

Choreo: Cameron Mckinney

Choreo: Nicole McClam

Choreo: Aviva Geismar

Dir: Jeff Hicks 

Choreo/Dir: Bill Starr

Dir: Kit Wilder

Dir: Walter Mayes

Dir: Lisa Mallette

Dir: Tim Wilder 

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2022 - 2024

Montclair State University 

2021- 2022

CUNY Queensborough CC

2014- 2019

Alonzo King's Lines Dance Center

Bachelors of Fine Arts in Dance Performance

Studied Under Stefanie Batten Bland, Maxine Steinman, Christian VonHoward, Bradley Shelver, Sarah Weber Gallo, Karen Gayle, and Cameron Mckinney

Associates of Science in Dance Performance

Studied Under Emily Berry, Aviva Gesimar, Gierre Godley, and Nicole McClam. Performed restaged works by Robert Battle. 

Ballet - Charles Torres, Rudolphe Cassand, Kathy Mata, Erik Wagner, LeeWei Chou                                           Modern - Kat Roman, Victor Talledos         

Jazz - Stacy Printz 

Education

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©2024 by Phillip Pettiford

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