Emory Dance Company: Meet the Program B Choreographers

Photo by Lori Teague

The Spring 2025 Emory Dance Company Concert April 16-19 features new work by students in our Choreography II course. Read about the choreographers in Program B, April 17 & 19, below.

Choreographer: Pia Lopez-Morton

About the work: I am exploring the concept of how people in our lives impact us. I find it very thought provoking how we are always surrounded by people whose stories we will never know but only see glimpses of and how much our families, friends, or mentors end up contributing to who we are. 

Choreographer: Nadia Piecyk

About the work: The inspiration for my piece stems from my personal and familial experiences living with rare and invisible disabilities. Some of the themes I’m curious about are the cohabitation of the self and the disability, the interplay between spontaneity and hyper-attunement, and the constant tradeoff between the nurtured and the nurturer.

Choreographer: Jaeda Samuel-McKnight

About the work: My piece explores the interconnected themes of sensuality, sexuality, and spirituality. It seeks to challenge societal constructs—such as the stigma around desire and the notion that sexuality and purity are mutually exclusive—while embracing the empowerment that comes from fully embodying one’s sensual and spiritual self. The work also reframes sensual and sexual expression as acts of worship, allowing for a deeper spiritual connection through the body.  

Choreographer: Samantha Stevens

About the work: My work aims to invite the audience into the inner worlds of the dancers by showcasing moments of introspection on each dancer's journey toward self-discovery and confidence. It will highlight the points where individual paths intersect, reflecting how personal growth can enrich relationships with others and foster a sense of community.

Choreographer: Justyna Tarniowa

About the work: My piece is exploring themes of fright, the uncanny, discomfort, and contrast. I am drawing inspiration from thriller novels and their most common tropes. I want the audience to feel a little uneasy, to sense the tension still ruminating in the room after the piece is over, finding both comfort and discomfort.  

Choreographer: Max Walkow

About the work: My work explores themes of potentiality and self-actualization. I want the audience to feel the way I first felt watching some of my favorite films which include Midsommar, Fight Club, and Saltburn.

Thank you choreographers! Click here to learn more about Emory Dance.