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Other Artists
MUSICIANS
Terry Byars received his B.S. in English Education from Louisiana State University, his M.F.A. in Acting from Temple University (Philadelphia), and his Ph.D. in Theatre from Louisiana State University. His teaching experience includes various high schools in Baton Rouge including St. Joseph's Academy, Southern Lab School, and Scotlandville Magnet School. He was an Assistant Professor at Northwestern University in Nachitoches, LA and at Louisiana College in Pineville, LA. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor of Speech and Theatre at River Parishes Community College. His professional experience includes extensive work for Playmakers Childrens' Theatre of Baton Rouge, The Baton Rouge Little Theatre, and St. John's Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church and for many other organizations in Louisiana.
Kristy Coast (vocalist) wast last seen on the Manship Theater stage as Lily St. Regis in Playmaker's production of Annie. Other theatrical roles include Lina Lamont in Singing in the Rain, Babe in Pajama Game, and Cheryl in The Taffetas all at BRLT. She teaches classes at Playmakers and is an "edutainer" at the Louisiana Arts and Science Museum theatre.
Quiana Lynell (vocalist) is a rising star of jazz, funk, and soul in the Southern Region. She is known by her closest fans as KIKI. She has performed on stage with many jazz icons as Kermit Ruffins and Shannon Powell. She is currently working on her solo project and can be seen frequently performing in prominent jazz spots in the New Orleans area. Quiana has had a long relationship with OMC and loves the infusion of the arts.
Lisa Oivanki holds undergraduate and Masters degrees in music from Louisiana State University. She is an active performer in the Baton Rouge area. In 2001, she was selected Outstanding Member of the Baton Rouge Symphony Chorus for the 2000-2001 performing year. In March of 2003, she performed at the 1st Annual LSU School of Music Alumni Weekend Lisa currently teaches vocal and instrumental music full-time in the parochial schools of the Diocese of Baton Rouge. She also teaches voice, piano, and
guitar to children and adults at Chrysalis, her private music studio in Watson, Louisiana. Lisa has also performed in OMC productions Yellow, Orchid, Blue, Red, Lilac-Magenta, and White. Since, 1998, she has also provided original live music and vocals as a solo musician for OMC's mid-winter production, Green.
Lindsey Spiller, Head Musician, began enjoying music as a toddler by listening, mainly to his sister's rehearsals on piano. He played in his first band at an early enough age that his mother would take her turn bringing the group with equipment to their gigs. Lindsey later co-founded and played with the group Kicks, and retired from it after 19 years of entertaining. Since then he has become an active member of First Presbyterian Church's worship team, has co-produced a concert on Nicole Nordeman, was music director for The River 2000 by Renaissance Productions and has teamed up with friend Russ Wasson to play and record with various artists including Kirk Holder, Matt Doran and Todd Westbrook. Lindsey has been head musician for Of Moving Colors Productions major shows for five years.
Robert Ward began playing guitar in 1983 when he was 13. In high school he enrolled in Jazz Ensemble and in 1987 won "Outstanding Musician" for guitar at Loyola's Jazz Festival. In 1990, he was accepted to Musician's Institute. Upon graduation in 1991, he moved back to Baton Rouge and has performed in various projects in the local music scene. In addition to working with OMC, he writes and performs with DOROTHY JANE, ROLLOVER, and on private demos. He is also the Guitar Instructor at Live Music.
Jonathan Wilson is a native of Baton Rouge and has been a drummer/percussionist for over 20 years. He has been involved in local music for over 15 years, playing in projects ranging from Rhythm and Blues to Rock, Punk and Reggae. An absolute Love for the performing arts and specifically, the joy that OMC brings to the community and surrounding areas, keeps him a "more than willing participant" in ANY OMC production.
GUEST CHOREOGRAPHERS
Gina Bashour, Choreographer, has been a member and rehearsal director since 2003 with Palissimo Dance Theatre. She has recently been seen performing in Dr. Atomic at the Metropolitan Opera. She has worked with Ashleigh Leite since 2005 and has also performed with Jody Oberfelder & Company and Alethea Adsitt & Company. In addition, she has performed and collaborated with Dance New Amsterdam's former producer Alberto Denis, was a founding member of Melissa Riker's The Kinesis Project, flown in the air with Julie Ludwick's Fly By Night Trapeze, danced as a principle in the Off-Broadway production Thin Line directed by Derek Mitchell, among others. In 2001, Gina founded the dance company, GiBa in motion, which has performed throughout New York and New England. She has been a freelance choreographer since 2005 and has lived in NYC since 2000.
Nicole Cassivio - (2002, 2003)
(Contemporary technique classes, exploration of release-based partnering possibilities and Choreography for Paradise Orange and Peacock Blue)
Swiss artist Nicole is based in Berlin. She teaches a dynamic, concentrated and powerful contemporary dance style which is based on Release and Cunningham techniques combined with personal influences such at the Alexander technique and sport. Her training includes the Rambert School in London and the Cunningham Studios in NYC. Nicole is a highly sought after instructor and choreographer all over Europe. She has taught and/or choreographed for Impulstanz (Vienna), GDA (London), State Opera House (Turkey) and others.
Nick Erickson - (2004) Nick received his B.A. at the University of Washington and his M.A. at California Institute of the Arts. He has performed at the Colorado Shakespeare and the Edinburgh Fringe Festivals among other places. For seven years, Nick worked as a founding member of the Diavolo Dance Theatre and has co-choreographed and performed in almost all of the company's pieces. As a Movement Coach/ Choreographer/ Stunt Coordinator, Erickson has worked for Shakespeare Festival LA, the LA Opera and for films such as The Peppermint Tree. He is currently the movement specialist at LSU. This is his second production with OMC.
Hannah Kahn -(1998) Hannah directs the Denver-based Hannah Kahn Dance Company. She is a master teacher and choreographer with thirty-one years of experience creating ninety dances. After graduating from the Juilliard School, Kahn directed the Hannah Kahn Dance Company in NY and then relocated the company to Colorado in 1988. Awards include 2 NEA Choreography fellowships and 6 elected times to appear on the Colorado Choreographers' Showcase. In addition to her own company, she has set her work on many other companies including Concert Dance Company of Boston and Pennsylvania Dance Theatre. Hannah set “Wheeling” on Of Moving Colors (formally In the Company of Dancers) under Lisa Hooks-Murray in 1996.
Ashleigh Leite is a graduate of SUNY Purchase with a BFA in Modern Dance Performance. Her performance credits are with Stephen Petronio Company of which she has served as the Assistant Director/Rehearsal Director and dancer for eight years. Her own work has been presented at Danspace Project's "Out of Space" series in New York. Ashleigh has performed for other choreographers and is an active member of Pavel Zustiak's palissimo dance theatre. She is a sought teacher internationally and guest teaches regularly at Dance Space Center, New York City.
Scott Putman, Choreographer, Founder, and Artistic Director of Amaranth Contemporary Dance, is an Associate Professor at VCU, resident choreographer of Pasadena Dance Theatre and the creator of the Elemental Body Alignment System© (EBAS). He currently directs and teaches the Summer I Program at the Accademia dell' Arte in Arezzo, Italy as well as for California State Summer School for the Arts and the Richmond Ballet. Scott has taught internationally in Bangkok, Thailand, Paris, France, Arezzo, Italy and Costa Rica. He has danced for Mordine and Company Dance Theatre, Dimetrius Klein Dance Company, Minnesota Ballet, Ballet Theatre of Chicago, Donald McKayle, David Alan and Douglass Becker. Scott received his BA from Columbia College, Chicago and MFA from University of California, Irvine.
Irene Rampino, (1987-2004) Irene, a native Californian, began dancing and gymnastics at the age of nine. In 1971, she received a high school performing arts scholarship to study under David Wood of the Martha Graham Company at the University of California at Berkeley. In 1974, Irene graduated from Berkeley Performing Arts High School and continued to study and perform until 1984, in the companies of Margaret Jenkins, Albert Reid, Viola Farber, Joanne Halgood, and Steve Paxton. In 1984, she received a full-fellowship to New York University
at Tisch School of the Arts and completed her MFA in 1986. While in New York, Irene began to study the Pilates Method of exercise and Astanga Yoga. In 1986, Irene apprenticed in the Merce Cunningham Modern Dance Company for one year. In 1992, Irene completed her Master of Science in Physical Therapy at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. Since moving to Baton Rouge in 1992, Irene has taught, choreographed and danced with In the Company of Dancers. Currently, Irene owns and operates E-Centrics, and outpatient Physical Therapy clinic and Pilates studio. She is married to Jim Levy.
Danny Scott - (2004) (Varous physical theatre improvisations and development of exercises focusing on composition)
Danny is a performer and director of exceptional artistic strength, vision and professionalism, prolific in his ability to develop and inspire at every level. He has developed an international reputation as a performer, teacher, director and consultant, specializing in Acting and Physical Theatre, cultivating his unique style from a rich backdrop of professional performing arts experience spanning 20 years. He has traveled the world as a performer, teacher, actor and director with clients including Westminster Theatre on the West End and London's BBC Television.
Stephen Wynne - (1998, 1999, 2001, 2004)
(Modern technique classes with combinations approached from a perspective of utilizing abstract symbolism)
Stephen's training includes the Pennsylvania Ballet and ABT. He has worked for the Joffrey Ballet in New York and was a principal dancer and resident choreographer for the Freiburger Tanz Theater. As a principal dancer and guest choreographer for the modern dance company at the State Opera House in Cologne, he was awarded for his choreographic achievement by the German Cultural Department. Stephen founded and directed At Marah Dance Theatre in Philadelphia for five years and currently teaches at Bellhaven College in Mississippi.
Palo Zustiak (1998, 2005)- Pavel was born in the former Czechoslovakia. At the age of 17 he made his choreography debut to the M. P. Mussorgsky’s music Pictures at an Exhibition for 23 dancers. Influenced by working with Richard Mouradian in Paris, he decided to pursue dance and choreography professionally. After a period of solo performances and leading his own company (TNZTT) in Slovakia, he continued his training in Canada and in Amsterdam at the School for New Dance Development. He graduated in dance composition and performance production. Pavel considers his studies at the School for New Dance Development as one of the fundamental educational experiences in his artistic development. In 1999 he relocated to New York City where he established his own dance company, Palissimo. Pavel’s work and performances were seen in Košice and Bratislava, Prague, Vancouver, Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, New York City, Hammond and Baton Rouge. He was recently chosen as a featured artist at New Yorks “American Living Room Festival” and voted one of the top emerging dance companies by TimeOut magazine.
Additional guest choreographers for OMC: Joe Alegado (1998), Emilie Plauche-Flink, CoCo Loupe (2000), Dana Brewer-Plaznic (2002), and Randi Turkin (2003) (Please send us an updated bio if you guys are reading this!)
POETS
Summer Mauldin Stewart was born and raised in South Carolina where her love of front porches, butter biscuits, story-tellin' grandmothers, and all things Southern began. She attended Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC before moving to Lake Charles, LA to obtain a MA in English and a MFA in writing. Last year she moved to Baton Rouge as a bright-eyed newlywed, and has since fallen in love with the capital city. She currently works as the Assistant Editor of Country Roads Magazine and spends her free time absorbing the sights and sounds of the bayou country. Summer’s work will be featured in OMC’s upcoming production of Peacock Blue.
Becky Larkin teaches Technical Writing and Introduction to Poetry at LSU. She wrote poems for and appeared in the OMC production of Paradise Orange. She was born and raised in the West but has lived in Baton Rouge for many many many years. Her work will also be featured in OMC’s upcoming production of Peacock Blue.
VISUAL ARTISTS
Mark Nikoff (Painter) Mark’s work is intertwined with multiple meanings and movement that pulls the viewer into his world of visualization and interpretation. Once in that world they can discover what that means to them. Art is a never-ending world of change and evolution, upon each interpretation a new understanding of individuality is born. He is a firm supporter of Visual and Performing Arts in our area. He states, “I am honored to be a participant with ‘Of Moving Colors.’ …we have so many fantastic creative people in Baton Rouge. I live to create and want to share that excitement with you”
David Cano (metal works/tail base and throne platform)
David is a self-taught metal designer and fabricator currently working in Baton Rouge. He has been in business for six years. His beginnings took him to the BR Arts Market where he built his business and currently is working exclusively on custom works as an independent contractor. He is also the husband of Peacock Blue’s guest artist, Nalini Raghavan. David was asked to build a small but extremely heavy utilitarian base for the peacock feathers and then delivered a work of art.
Robert Sherman (Set /prop design and construction) worked on props for Yellow Orchid Blue, Red, Green, and Lilac Magenta. He even danced in Red and Lilac Magenta, albeit in novelty roles. Robert was trained as a chemical engineer and currently works with hazardous waste for a living. Hobbies include juggling, unicycling, and butterfly ranching.
Kathleen Nowak Tucci (feather designer) resides and creates in Baton Rouge. For most of her artistic life she was a painter, but in the last few years she has found her new love of playing with dirt. Kathleen now hand forms ceramic clay into whimsical and elegant lamps, candlesticks and sculpture for the home and garden. Her creations can be found in many outstanding homes in Baton Rouge including the LSU Chancelor's home. She is represented by Brunner Gallery in Covington and Lifesytle Gallery in Fairhope, AL. Her work was previously featured in OMC’s Sienna.
Additional Artists who have worked with OMC
Tim Cundiff has been a production potter in Baton Rouge for 30 years. He worked at Port Hudson Pottery for four years before starting his own studio Mud and Metal Craft Studios in 1977. Tim received a BFA from LSU in 1973, with a major in ceramics, studying under John Goodheart and Joseph Bova. Tim is a former board member of the Baton Rouge Gallery and Baton Rouge Arts and Humanities Council. He currently sells his work through Mud and Metal Craft Studios. Sienna was Tim's first collaboration with Of Moving Colors Productions.
Rings-O-Fire is Baton Rouge's newly formed, and first, fire performance group. The establishing member branched off from the Pyrokinetics- Fire in Motion Troupe of Dallas Texas. We in Rings-O-Fire wish to share with our audiences the exciting combination of live fire and dance in a visually exciting performance that is made safe for audiences. Come share in the light. This is their first time performing with Of Moving Colors Productions.
Demond Matsuo quite a mysterious figure; not much is known about his whereabouts, but he has shown all over Louisiana. His paintings tend toward a surrealist vision amplified by symbols and archetypes. Statement: There is always talk about situations that arise and ways of dealing with them efficiently. The need to exist has manifested itself but of what worth is it when you are the only one seeing the full possibility? The heir apparent ghost becomes some theme part icon like Mickey Mouse totally desensitized and left meaningless. I want to bring conviction that will leave meaning in tact and impervious to banality. This art will exist. – Demond
PRODUCTION
Alice H. Allen (Production Stage Manager) has a B.A. in Theatre Administration from Louisiana Tech University and is currently working on her M.A. in Theatre History from Regis University in Denver, CO. Her professional credits include production stage manager, puppet master, and fight choreographer for Stagedoor Manor in Loch Sheldrake, NY working on such shows as Evita, Avenue Q, and Oklahoma. She has training in stage combat, dance, and puppetry; she also enjoys lending a hand to other local non-profit theatres in the Baton Rouge area.
Liz Grimes Droessler (Lighting Designer) has a B.S. in Dance, a Masters in Theatre and is working on her Doctorate in Adult Learning. In Raleigh NC she supervises 525 K-12 arts educators and tours nationally with Chuck Davis and the African American Dance Ensemble. Her lighting designs have been seen at the American Dance Festival and the Kennedy Center in Washington DC for such greats at Donald McKayle, David Dorfman and Dr. Pearl Primus. Liz has come to know and love Louisiana as a free-lance theatre, music and dance lighting designer and is always thrilled to have the opportunity to work with so many gifted OMC artists.
Bruce Benton is best known for his design and construction of costumes for Mardi Gras tableau balls. He has also designed for dancers in cabaret acts and pageants. This will be his second experience designing for Of Moving Colors Productions.
Karla King, Costume Designer, lists LSU, USL, Swine Palace, Singapore Repertory Theatre, Peace College, Mystic Krewe of Achilles, Krewe de la Louisianne Governor's Mardi Gras Ball, Baton Rouge Green, Playmakers, BR Ballet Theatre, The Dance Center, MoonLark Productions and various individuals as owners of her costume designs. Karla is currently employed with Mary Kay Carleton, CPA.
Ray Sibley, Production Director, is the founding director of "Moonlark Productions," the parent company of Feliciana School for the Performing Arts. He also is the artistic director of the theatre division of FSPA and is building the Moonlark Theatre in Ethel, Louisiana. He organizes and hosts the Baton Rouge poetry slam competitions and teaches drama at Broadmoor Middle Performing Arts Magnet. He also teaches Theatre at SLU. Ray received his doctoral degree from LSU in Performance Studies with a minor in English.
Laura Souter's The Atelier Hair and Body Salon was established in 2000 as the first hair salon in Downtown Baton Rouge in over 30 years. Laura Miller Souter, Hairdresser in the Baton Rouge area for 14 years, has been involved in styling for the Baton Rouge Opera, the Hall of Fashion Ball, and several other dramatic productions locally. She was the In-House Educator for Lockworks, USA, for over 5 years, specializing in hair color. Currently, Laura is the owner of the Atelier Hair and Body Salon and a national educator for John Paul Mitchell Systems.
Billy Wilson, stage manager, has participated extensively in productions by Of Moving Colors over the last five years. He has run sound (Red), handled photo shoots (Green), sung with the band (White), performed motorcycle stunts and offered his martial arts skill to the stage (Paradise Orange). He currently writes lyrics and sings with his band Dorothy Jane. He also sings frequently at First Presbyterian Church. He would like to thank his wife Garland for her loving support and his father for all of his encouragement and support.
PAST PERFORMERS
Trey Gillen, a native of BR, grew up competing in gymnastics. He won the title of 1990 U.S. National Champion and placed 6th at The World Championships for Sport Acrobatics. He moved to NYC where he received a BFA from the Juilliard School. He has performed around the world with dance companies such as Iceland Dance Company, in Reykjavik, Iceland, Los Angeles Chamber Ballet, The Metropolitan Opera Company, Pascal Rioult Dance Theatre, Mark Dendy Dance Theatre, The Carolyn Dorfman Dance Company, Bopi's Black Sheep and the jazz/gymnastics group Antigravity, Inc. For several years Trey has also been choreographic assistant to Lila York, creating ballets for The San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet, Houston Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Tulsa Ballet, The Royal Birmingham Ballet and The Juilliard School. Currently Mr. Gillen is Principal dancer with The Nikolais Dance Theatre: A Celebration Tour. His first appearance with OMC was in 2004.
Nalini A. Raghavan has been training in the classical Indian dance form of Bharata Natyam under the direction of guru Padmini Chari in the Kalakshetrastyle. She is founder and director of the Amruthananda School of Bharata Natyam. Ms. Raghavan also received training from renowned guru, Padmasri Kalaimamani Adyar K. Lakshaman in Madras, India. Raghavan has performed in public venues such as Red River Revel in Shreveport and in staged productions such as the dance drama, Krishnanjali. Most recently, Raghavan produced and performed a two and a half hour solo performance named Arangetram. She has been featured twice with Of Moving Colors Productions.
Yvonne Marie Boudreaux began dancing with the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre for 10 years and also trained with Twin City Ballet, Nashville Ballet and At Marah Dance Theater. She has danced with Of Moving Colors Productions for 5 years since its inception in performances such as Yellow Orchid Blue, Red, Fall & Recover, “ArtReach” and Green (1999, 2000, & 2002) and Sienna. She is currently pursuing a masters in theatrical design at UT Austin. She is an architect graduate from LSU and during her tenure in Louisiana she built the set for Sienna as well as produced her own site-specific work "Skin".
Christine Chrest (out on maternity leave) is a recent transplant to the Baton Rouge area and is thrilled to be here. As a dancer she has performed nationally and internationally with the Lewitzky Dance Company, Post House Dance Group, Donald McKayle, and Andrea Woods. She has toured Europe and the United States with the shows "Crazy for You," "Will Rogers Follies" and "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers." In 1994 she had the honor of performing for President Clinton at the White House. As a choreographer, her work has been showcased in the Los Angeles Festival of Solos and Duets, the Praxis Project, with the West Virginia Dance company and with Kyblee Dance Company. She has created work for the University of California, Irvine, Fullerton College, Cerritos College, Moorpark College, California State University, Northridge, and the American College Dance Festival where her work was selected as Gala Finalist. Christine holds a BFA from Point Park College, and an MFA from the University of California, Irvine where she assisted Donald McKayle. This is her first season dancing with OMC. Christine's proudest accomplishment is her son Nicolas.
Jessica Collins has studied dance for 10 years. She dances locally at 2Ms School of Dance. She has also Danced with the LSU Dance Department. She danced with OMC in 2002-2003.
Hamilton Tyler D’Aquilla "Khya" began his study of dance 5 years ago at LeMoine and Chatelaine Dance Center of Baton Rouge. After a year of training, he attended the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts for 2 years where he studied ballet, modern and jazz. When entering LSU in 2004, Khya took time off from his study of dance to pursue his Bachelors in International Studies and French. During his 2nd and 3rd year of college, however, he has continued his studies of modern under Kathleen Spinazolla and Dina Melley, as well as ballet, jazz and Latin Dance. Last year Khya was a member of LSU’s Dance Theatre.
Brian Davis started break dancing at the age of 14. He recently won second place for break dancing at Import Invasion. He has also attended many other break dancing competitions in the past 4 years. He danced with OMC in 2004.
Jessica Donley has been dancing for years and dance has always been in her life. She has danced with the Cangelosi Dance Project, training under Kris Cangelosi. She also played a dance role in the movie, Ray, starring Jamie Foxx. Jessica has studied under movement instructors at LSU such as: Nick Erickson, Susan Perlis, and Molly Buchmann and modern/African under Millicent Jonnie. Jessica is an Anthropology major and a dance minor at LSU and plans to culturally study dance. She appeared in OMC's Green (2004) and she was an active and amazing in 2004's summer's "CLOSER to the Arts! Educational Outreach Program.
Courtney Doucette is a native of Slidell, Louisiana where she began training at Slidell School of Dance. Courtney has worked with Coco Loupe, Molly Buchmann and Susan Perlis of Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre, and Tari Smith of Tari's School of Dance. In 2001, she joined In the OMC and was featured in Lilac, Magenta; Dance: Baton Rouge, Philadelphia; and Green. She was also featured in Louisiana State University's Spring Dance Concert in 2002. She has attended residency programs with guest artists Stephen Wynne and Danny Scott. Her most recent performance was DramaRama in New Orleans, LA.
Sonja Bruzauskas Haymon, German actress and Mezzo oprano, was featured as a guest artist in voice in 2003. Since 2000, Sonja has been performing as a soloist with the Staatsoperette Dresden, Germany, where she interpreted "Rosina" in "The Barber of Seville", "Eliza" in "My Fair Lady", "Anita" in "West Side Story", "Nancy" in "Martha", "Orlofsky" in "Die Fledermaus" and many more. After earning her undergraduate degree in Musical Theatre Performance at the Folkwang Hochschule Essen, Germany, Sonja graduated from Manhattan School of Music in New York with a Master's Degree in Voice Opera. Ms. Bruzauskas has appeared as soloist in several oratorio concerts and recitals throughout Germany, the USA, and Mexico and accepted an invitation to compete in the final rounds of the Wagner competition for young voices in Bayreuth, Germany. She currently resides in Houston, TX.
Laura Herrera has been dancing for 10 years in the areas of jazz, ballet and tap. She first started in her home country, Costa Rica where she became a member of a Jazz Dance Company for four years. With the company she had the opportunity to participate in The American Theater Dance Workshop in NY (1998) and in two Jazz Dance World Congresses in Buffalo, NY (1999,2000). Laura also became a teacher and choreographer for the school at which she was taught. She left her country two years ago to pursue a career in Industrial Engineering in the USA. She danced with OMC in 2002-2003.
Patience Impson has been dancing for 26 years. Patience studied on scholarship at the Joffrey Ballet in New York and Gus Giordano School in Chicago. She danced with the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre under the direction of Sharon Mathews and Molly Buchmann for three years. She also currently dances with Izzy Moving Dance Theatre. She danced with In the Company of Dancers under the direction of Company founder, Lisa Hooks-Murray for three years and then joined OMC in the year 2000. She trained under artists such as Joe Alegado and Danny Scott. She has a degree in English literature.
Mary Cynthia Jenkins is a native of Chicago, has been a resident of BR for 12 years. In Chicago she has instructed modern dance at several inner city District Community Centers. She has danced with Jordan's Dance Ensemble, performing all throughout the Chicago area. Currently, she is performing for Churches in Austin, Chicago, Los Angeles and Louisiana and welcomes more opportunities to serve God with her gift of dance. Mary has taught for OMC' s C.L.O.S.E.R. to Arts outreach program. She is also a manager, certified personal trainer, and aerobics instructor at Spectrum Health Club.
Stephen J. Kernion Stephen has worked with OMC since 2003. He has only been dancing for about three years but has been very dedicated to this trade. He is a senior at LSU and recently became a Theatre Performance major. His has studied under Lucrecia Hydell, Keri Bourg, Susan Perlis & Molly Buchmann. He hopes to attend film school at UCLA and one day become a director or choreographer. His inspirations include Bob Fosse, Stanley Kubrick, and Christopher Walken.
Holt Kirkindoll* not available
Lacy Little is from Franklin, TN. She has been dancing for 11 years. In TN she danced with Ann Carroll School of Dance under the direction of Ann Carroll, Julie Palmer, and Jerry Noone. She was a colorguard member of the LSU Tiger Band from 2001-2004. She is a recent LSU graduate and holds a degree in General Studies with minors in biology, chemistry, anthropology, dance and jewelry making/metalsmithing. Lacy plans on pursuing a career in medicine. She joined Of Moving Colors in 2005.
Melana L. Lloyd is a native of Lafayette, LA. She is an LSU Alumni and is finishing her second year in the Master of Fine Arts program from the Tisch School of the Arts (NYU) in New York City. She has been studying dance since the age of 13 at PJ's School of Dance, Lafayette Parish High School Arts Academy, and The Alvin Ailey School of Dance. Melana was with OMC since its inception 1998. She thanks God for her gift, her loved ones for the encouragement, and the company for the opportunity to DANCE.
Meghan McCulla is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin in theater and dance. She began her dance training in Baton Rouge and has danced through Texas, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and New York. While studying under mentors such as Kent deSpain, Yacov Sharir, and Andee Scott, Meghan has found a passion not only for modern dance but also contact improvisation. Throughout the years Meghan has taught jazz, modern dance, and children's creative movement. In addition, she is also a Pilates instructor and Personal Trainer. She recently worked with Irene Rampino at E-Centrics Physical Therapy. Currently, Meghan teaches class at the Dance Center in Baton Rouge under the ownership of Tamu Wilson and Jennifer White. Meghan joined the company in the beginning of 2006 and served as Associate Director for 2 years.
Alia Maggio is a native of Thibodaux, Louisiana. She has recently graduated from Louisiana State University with a bachelors in Psychology. Alia started dancing in high school with her high school dance team. She has attended classes from guest artists Nicole Caccivio, Danny Scott, and Stephen Wynne. Two years ago she started taking classes from Tari Smith of Tari's School of Dance. She danced with OMC in 2003-2004.
Leslie Malick began training in 1987 under NYC Ballet’s David Keary – current Artistic Director of Ballet Mississippi. Throughout this time she also trained under the late Hollis Pippin (Soul Train Gang), Elizabeth Sullivan, Lisa Brown and Tammy Bomar. Leslie first danced with OMC in 1999 under the direction of Garland G. Wilson and has since performed in Red, Green (1999-2002), Dance Philadelphia/Baton Rouge, White, Loupe’d, Lilac Magenta, Paradise Orange. Her last performance with the company was Vertical Voyage, a collaboration with the Baton Rouge Symphony in 2005. During the time she worked with myriad artists including Nicole Cassivio, Stephen Wynne, Coco Loupe, Emily Plauche-Flink, Ashleigh Leite, Irene Rampino, Nick Erickson and Palo Zustiak. In 2002 Leslie also joined Izzy Moving Dance Theatre under the direction of Dana Brewer-Plazinic and performed various works in New Orleans, New York and Baton Rouge.
Micaela Marchand began her dance training at age seven with In the Company of Dancers' founder Lisa Hooks-Murray at Turning Point dance studio. She has studied ballet, modern, jazz and tap. Recently, Micaela presented a choreographic work in Reflections, directed by Dana Brewer-Plazinic. She danced with the Cangelosi Dance Project in Passions Within Us, directed by Kris Cangelosi. Through Of Moving Colors’ Micaela has had the opportunity to work with choreographers such as Nicole Caccivio, Danny Scott, and Stephen Wynne and performed with OMC for three years. Micaela is an environmental scientist at the LA Dept of Environmental Quality.
Dina Ternullo Melley, originally from Boston, studied under Donna Silva and Jennifer Scanlon at the Boston Conservatory, earning a BFA in dance. Dina also trained at the Joffrey School in San Antonio and with Gus Giordano in Chicago. She has performed master works by José Limón, Paul Taylor and Donald McKayle and tours internationally with the Boston Liturgical Dance Ensemble. In 2002, Dina performed for Pope John Paul II at World Youth Day in Toronto, Canada. Since arriving in Baton Rouge, she has been privileged to perform with Baton Rouge Ballet Theater's "Ballet for Children," CTK Liturgical Dancers, has performed in conjunction with the LSU School of Music, and teaches at local studios and LSU. Dina performed with OMC for two seasons.
Michael J. Morris is a BR native and BFA modern dance major at Belhaven College. Recently he has appeared in works choreographed by Stephen Wynne, Amy Roarke-McIntosh and Cynthia Newland. Michael studied locally at the Dancer’s Workshop and BRHA under Sharon Mathews, artistic director of the BR Ballet Theatre, and appeared in ballets such as Cinderella and Copellia. Michael performed in Shanna Forrestall’s Celebration of Cultural Diversity in 2002, and would like to thank Shanna for the guide she continues to be. Michael has taken class with the David Parsons Company, Coco Loupe, Garland Goodwin Wilson, and a number of other fine local instructors. Michael appeared in Sienna and Peacock Blue.
Martinique Marcella Harris Perkins is a graduate of Louisiana State University with a bachelor of science in psychology. She has been dancing for 15 years and has studied under Kris Cangelosi, Renee Chatelain, and Laurie Minarik. While with the company, Martinique has trained under artists such as Irene Rampino and Dana Brewer. She has been in the productions of Lilac Magenta, White, Green, and Paradise Orange. Martinique was with Of Moving Colors for three years. She is also teaches liturgical dance at New Pilgrim Baptist.
Jessamyn Polson began her training at the Universidad Nacional in Costa Rica. In her second year she received a full scholarship and danced with Danza Una. She continued her training at the Conservatorio el Barco with Jimmy Ortiz and Veronica Llanez. Jessamyn was also part of the touring company Circunnavegantes, under the choreographer David Calderon. She has recently moved from Costa Rica to Baton Rouge as an intern with OMC.
Erin Jennings Reynolds has been dancing for 18 years. She has danced with Phyllis Guy Dance Center, Spotlight Dance Center, and Dream Factory Dance Academy where she is presently on staff. Most recently she attended Impulstanz in Vienna and studied under Risa Steinberg and David Zambrano. She is a graduate of LSU with a Bachelor of Science degree in Family Child Consumer Science and she is Montessori Certified through NCME. After a year and a half in Vegas she returned home to Baton Rouge and currently teaches at LaPrintaniere Montessori School.
Calvin Rowe studied theatre under Nancy Keel, Joseph Frost, and Dr. Louis Campbell, the latter two of Belhaven College. His theatrical roles include Aztrov in Uncle Vanya, Fabian in Twelfth Night, and an ensemble production of Antigone. He was also in the world premier of Rememberfall by Joseph Frost. He studied and performed dance under Stephen Wynne of Belhaven College. This is Calvin’s first year with Of Moving Colors.
Hannah Beth Schuster, a native Oklahoman, continues to pursue a dance career that began eight years ago. While attending LSU in Baton Rouge during 1996 to 1999, Hannah joined the Of Moving Colors during its first year as a company. In July 1999 Hannah moved to New York City to study dance at the renowned Ailey School, formerly called Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. She attended Long Island University in Brooklyn and participated in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program for dance and choreography. In January 2003, Hannah returned to Baton Rouge and LSU to complete her degree. She is very happy to be reunited with her former dance company, OMC.
Arlando Smith 's local credits include Fences for Swine Palace, The Three Penny Opera for LSU Theatre, and A Cajun Christmas Carol for Playmakers among many others. He has also toured around the nation with various theatre companies. Plans for the future may include graduate school in acting. He was very happy to make his Of Moving Colors debut with Sienna. He sends endless thanks to Yvonne, Randi, Garland and Jen.
Anne Tangi has trained with the Lemoine-Chatelain Dance Center, the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, the Dance Center Inc., and the McKinley High Dance Department, where she has performed as well as choreographed. She has appeared in The Inner-City Nutcracker, and The Nutcracker: A Tale From the Bayou. She also loves cultural dance forms, such as Latin, and has performed in Filipino and East Indian works. Anne is a freshman at LSU and has danced with OMC in Vertical Voyage, the Louisiana Dance Festival, and Gifts of Red and Green. She began dancing with the company in 06-07.
Jeremy Theriot is a 23-year old graduate of LSU in Biological Engineering. Jeremy made his theatrical debut in a short movement production of Shakespeare's “The Tempest” (2002). He can currently be seen in the acrobatic dance company CAGED, directed by Nick Erickson. Sienna was his first and only appearance with Of Moving Colors, as he moved to California shortly afterwards. When not walking on his hands or swinging from trees, he likes to sleep, dreaming of tuna and beef and of his aversion to vegetables. He would like to thank Garland, Coco, and Nick for all their help.
Monica (Thibodeaux) Theriot has been dancing for over 17 years. She enjoys dancing and dedicates all her time to fulfilling that enjoyment. Monica performs with Of Moving Colors and also with Nick Erickson is CAGED. She would like to become a professional dancer and is currently attending California State University at Long Beach to major in dance. She worked with OMC for two years.
Randi Turkin, Choreographer/ Dancer, made her fourth and final appearance with OMC in 2003 before moving to Austin, TX. She has trained for 19 years in various styles including ballet, modern, tap, and jazz under several artists including Berlin's Nicole Cassivio and NYC's Skip Costa. Last summer she attended the NYC Core Movement Project's Summer Intensive as a scholarship student. Her choreography has most recently been performed for Baton Rouge's WVLA 33, in LSU's Spring Concerts 2001 and 2002, and in "Paradise Orange." Much thanks to Garland for letting her light a few fires in Sienna. To those who inspire her, you are forever in her heart.
Lauren (Vendt) Nathanson has been dancing for eleven years. She danced previously with Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre, under the direction of Sharon Mathews, Molly Buchmann, and Susan Perlis. Recently she danced with the Atlanta Ballet for two years under the artistic direction of John McFall, where she trained with artists such as the late Fernando Bujones. Lauren has attended summer intensives on scholarship such as ABT, Austin Ballet, and Juilliard. She attended Atlanta Ballet's summer programs for five years on full scholarship. Lauren teaches ballet at Dance and Company, and she is also employed by the law office of Andre P. LaPlace. Lauren joined the company in 2004.
Christine Vinci has been dancing for 19 years and is currently a dance minor at LSU. She has studied dance with Kelli’s Kreative Dance and the Jefferson Ballet Theatre. She is a member of the LSU Dance Ensemble and has choreographed for the LSU Dance Concert and the Louisiana Dance Festival. She has also choreographed and competed on both the regional and national levels. She presently teaches ballet at Cindy’s School of Dance. Christine is originally from Kenner, LA and will be graduating this year with a degree in psychology. This is Christine’s first year with OMC.
Cheryl Walker has been a dancer for over fifteen years, she has studied and performed with 2M's School of Dance for the past 10 years and Laurie Minarik at McKinley Senior High for four years. Her love of dance has led her to cross train in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and modern. This adds to her knowledge and technique. Recognized for her artwork and writing, Cheryl spent a summer at Emory University in Atlanta in a Youth Theological Initiative. She hopes to study religion and the arts. She danced with OMC in 2002-2003.
Allison Ward is currently a senior at LSU studying History and Dance. She performs and choreographs with the LSU Dance Ensemble. Allison grew up dancing with DeFrances Academy of Dance. This previous year she was a guest artist in the opera La Traviata, Bill T. Jones' company's local show, and Martha Graham's "Panorama."
Shaun Warner is a thirty eight year old native from New Orleans, LA. He has studied dance at Bonnie Adams Dance Studio in NO, LSU, BRLT, Tari’s School of Dance, and Elite Dance School under Stephanie and Theresa Whitaker. He has performed in The Death of Bessie Smith at UNO at LSU; Playmakers Wind & the Willows 10th anniversary addition. Shaun performed with the Baton Rouge Little Theatre in Damn Yankees and the Wizard of Oz, He also performed in Jelly’s Last Jam with the Inner City Community Theatre. He danced in OMC's production of Peacock Blue.
Jennifer Williams, danced with OMC in 2003-2004. She has always loved to dance. She grew up dancing under the instruction of DeFrances Academy of Dance, where she learned tap, ballet, modern, and jazz. Some of her fondest childhood memories include participating at dance conventions in Myrtle Beach, Virginia, New York City, Las Vegas, and Chicago. She also enjoyed studying under Sharon Mathews and Molly Buchmann of the Baton Rouge Ballet Theater during her years at Baton Rouge High and LSU. Currently, Jennifer was so grateful for having the opportunity to dance with OMC. She has admired the company for many years and thanks Garland and the rest of the crew for welcoming her into their group.
Brandon Adkins, an apprentice in 2003-2004, is the oldest son of Danny and Gail Adkins. As of 2003, Brandon has been dancing for six years and performances include the Nutcracker and Cinderella with BR Ballet Theater. At school, Brandon is a member of the BRHS Dance Club, African American Heritage Club and gymnastics team. Brandon is also a member of several community and church groups. He thanks his family for their support of him and the arts.
Carel Lynn Landry, a native of Baton Rouge is thirteen years old (2003) and has studied dance under the direction of national award-winning choreographers, GiGi Haddad and Brittany Hastings, at A Chorus Line Dance Studio for the past 10 years. She has participated in plays and theatrical workshops, placed in numerous competitions and danced a lead in the off-Broadway production of “The Children.” She apprenticed with OMC in 2003-2004.
Jamie Johnell Roddy has been a student of dance for 11 years (in 2003). She has been with the Children’s Moving Company of Zachary, under the artistic direction of Becky Coxe, for 10 years. She has received Outstanding Junior Dancer and Dancer of the Year 2 years in a row. She is a member of the BR Ballet Junior Company and the Tri-Parish Senior Dance Company. She apprenticed with OMC in the Fall of 2003.
Genevieve (Jenna) Tucci, the daughter of Steven and Kathleen Tucci, recently graduated from BR Magnet High School. From 1995-1999 she danced with Renee Chatelaine and Cecil Lemoine at the Dance Center. She took a break from dancing for three years to play sports. She lettered in volleyball and tennis at BRMHS. She has rekindled her love for dance and has immersed herself in the art. She apprenticed with OMC in 2003-2004. |
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