This July, the University of Arizona’s School of Dance faculty and staff embarked on an incredible mission. Their journey took them to three of the nation’s top dance nationals: Tremaine, Revel, and the New York City Dance Alliance (NYCDA). Their objective was nothing short of ambitious: to find, nurture, and recruit the most promising dance talent for their upcoming 2024 season.
The University of Arizona’s School of Dance has always been a beacon of excellence in the field of dance education. The school prides itself on shaping future generations of performers, choreographers, and educators who, in turn, drive the art of dance forward.
Leading this groundbreaking initiative were School of Dance members Patricia Choate, Tammy Dyke-Compton, Gianni Howell, and the School of Dance Director, Duane Cyrus. With years of experience and a deep commitment to the art form, this team explored the breadth of the country in pursuit of talented students who demonstrate the potential to shine on the national stage.
The team’s commitment to supporting dance talent was in full swing as they awarded over $40,000 in scholarships. This significant financial contribution not only emphasized the University’s dedication to fostering talent but also acknowledged the often-prohibitive cost of professional dance training.
“The recruitment drive was an exhilarating experience. The passion, dedication, and raw talent we witnessed were awe-inspiring,” said Duane Cyrus, School of Dance director. “These young dancers showed remarkable promise, and we are excited to welcome them to our community.”
Choate, Compton, Howell, and Cyrus returned from their journey not only with a roster of exceptional new talent but with renewed inspiration and a clear vision of the future of dance.
