Students Reflect on Transformative Doug Varone and Dancers Residency

Doug Varone and Dancers Residency:

Emory Dance Students Reflect on Their Transformative Experience

This fall, the Emory Dance Program had the privilege of hosting Doug Varone and Dancers (DOVA) as a company in residence. Over the course of the residency, our students had the unique opportunity to work closely with DOVA, learning directly from the world-renowned choreographer Doug Varone and dancing alongside his company members. From open classes to live performances, students were fully immersed in the professional dance process, gaining first-hand insights of what a performance career can entail. 

Two dancers who participated in the residency shared their reflections on what this experience has meant for their artistic growth.

Student Vivian Corry shares:

"Our time working with DOVA really gave me insight into what a professional process looks like. I learned more about what goes into a show like this, both on the choreography side and the tech side. I learned more about keeping your body healthy and safe during a physically demanding process. I learned how to advocate for myself and communicate when I needed to modify things. Every part of the process was extremely enriching, and I feel immeasurably grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it."

"I truly believe that I grew as an artist from this experience. It challenged me to approach movement differently, to pick up corrections quickly, and to collaborate with new people."

Student Alice Stern shares:

"I feel what was most valuable part of this experience was being given direction and insight directly from Doug, and being able to learn about his process in choreographing, conceptualizing, and completing his works."

"This experience has greatly expanded my modern dance vocabulary and will influence my creativity in dance as well as my understanding of movement and weight."

The residency has left a lasting impact on our students, helping them grow as artists and future professionals. We’re excited to see how these experiences continue to shape their artistic journeys.

Learn more about Doug Varone and Dancers.