Sharing the Gift of Dance

2/5/2021

In its efforts to diversify course offerings and be “dancing advocates” for the School, Masters Dance Company (MDC) has welcomed two guest artists to its winter dance intensive sessions.

Kim Grier-Martinez is the Artistic Director of Rod Rodgers Dance Company, long known as a supportive hub for the development and maturation of Black dancers. She has had an impressive career as a dancer, choreographer and educator with her credits and social justice work through dance receiving global recognition. Grier-Martinez is teaching a modern/lyrical/urban/hip-hop class at Masters.

Hailed as both a “prodigy” and a “flash of brilliance” by The New York Times, Michela Lerman is a world-acclaimed performer, choreographer and educator who is sharing her tap dancing expertise and experience in a special class with MDC students.

“It was important to have artists of excellence who are currently working and creating in the field. In addition, the benefits students receive by being exposed to women of color are endless,” said MDC Director Shell Benjamin.

Benjamin’s dancers have embraced the chance to work with true professionals in a nurturing environment.

“I think what I've most enjoyed about Kim's class is learning to move my body in so many new ways,” said Christina Moore ’24. “Michela's class has helped me improve my tap skills. We learn challenging moves, and I am getting better at coordinating my brain and body.”