Background, professional training and performance history
Laura has been dancing for over 30 years. She began her training in Topeka, KS and went on to further her studies in ballet as a Fine Arts Guild Scholar at Texas Christian University. She later received an M.F.A. degree in dance at the U of O. Laura has taught and danced professionally with companies in Texas, New York, New Jersey, and Oregon. National tours include Sesame Street Live and SwingDance America. Laura’s choreography has appeared in many musicals including OFAM’s Babes in Arms, A Connecticut Yankee, and Kiss Me Kate. Laura is certified in DanceAbility and has taught workshops in Argentina and Uruguay. Locally, Laura has taught dance classes for the University of Oregon and the Oregon Ballroom Dance Club, and is currently an adjunct instructor at Lane Community College. This will be her second year teaching at The Shedd.
Artist statement and teaching philosophy
“I recognize and rejoice in the fact that each body is unique. When dance is approached with the body’s anatomy in mind, students learn how to move efficiently and freely. My approach to teaching is to start with the body’s weight placement and proceed to technique, flexibility and strength. While technique is always drilled in my classes, I encourage my students to bring individual artistry into their dancing. All of this is done in an open, friendly, and encouraging atmosphere. I hope my students gain self-awareness, intuition, and a passion for dancing. I welcome students ages 7 to 700 and of all abilities.”
Instruments & classes taught
Private and semi-private dance instruction for beginners to professionals in a variety of styles of dance including ballet, tap, jazz, musical theatre, DanceAbility, ballroom, Latin, and swing. Classes include Triple Threat: Musical Theatre Dance Class for youth and adults; Beginning Tap; Intermediate Tap; and Social/Ballroom Partner Dancing.