We are so excited to tell you about our 2021 RIWCP Choreographers. First up is Deanna Stanton!
Photo by J Smithwick Photography for Ballet Arkansas
Deanna Stanton is originally from Clarksville, Maryland and is currently in her eighth season with Ballet Arkansas. She has created works for Ballet Arkansas, The Young Choreographer’s Festival, participants of Youth America Grand Prix, Ballet Arkansas’ Youth Division and several summer intensives. She has also created two full length ballets, Cinderella and The Little Mermaid.
Deanna’s choreographic work for RIWCP: “Creating Fortitude has been an incredible & unique experience. I wanted to create a piece that was inspired by the strength and beauty of each dancer. I’ve had the opportunity to choreograph on four talented dancers from all over the country to create this new work with our rehearsal mostly over Zoom. While these dancers have never rehearsed together, I think you can feel their sense of power, strength, and unity as a group. Getting to talk with my mentor Julia Feldman was so inspiring & I learned so much from her. I’m so thankful to be a part of RI Women’s Choreography Project this year.”
Rapid Fire Questions with Deanna:
How long have you been choreographing?
12 years
If you could have any choreographer, dead or alive, create a new work on you, who would you choose?
William Forsythe
When you’re not choreographing, how do you like to spend your time?
I love dancing, teaching the next generation of dancers, and spending time with my husband & our two dogs!
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being a performing artist?
Dance has the power to truly move people! It’s so much more than just steps. It can have the ability to make an audience member laugh, cry, fall in love, or even grieve. I always aim to focus on what I want my piece to say. When creating a new work, I’ll tailor my choreography to what I believe will bring out my concept the best.
What was your first job?
Modeling for an agency in New York City
Favorite emoji?
🕺🏻
Favorite food?
Dark Chocolate Covered Cashews
Dog person or cat person?
Dog person!
Ideal travel destination?
Anywhere with a beach!
What are you most looking forward to in 2021?
Getting the opportunity to perform in front of audience & create more new works!
Photo by Melissa Dooley Photography for Ballet Arkansas
Watch Deanna’s piece for RIWCP in our Virtual Production. Ticket information coming soon!
Learn more about Deanna here: www.deannastanton.com
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