Dance Makers 2024 Program

Artistic Director 

Leymis Bolaños Wilmott 

exhale 

18TH SEASON | 2023-2024 

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exhale 

18TH SEASON | 2023-2024 

NOV 30–DEC 3 

SCD + WBTT 

PRODUCING SPONSORS: SHANE & MONIQUE CHALKE 

JAN 18-21 

EVOLVING/REVOLVING: 

ALYSON DOLAN & 

DREW SILVERMAN 

MUSIC SPONSOR: BERNARD FRIEDLAND 

MAR 14-17 

DANCE MAKERS 

PRODUCING SPONSOR: SAM ALFSTAD 

MAY 2-5 

VOICES – 

RISING CHOREOGRAPHERS 

DANCE SPONSORS: THE EXCHANGE & OVERTURE GROUP 

PHOTO BY SORCHA AUGUSTINE 

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To become a Producer, 

contact Dan Barzel: Dan.Barzel@gmail.com

FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD 

As we embark on our 18th season, I am filled with gratitude 

and excitement to welcome you to the heart of Sarasota 

Contemporary Dance. It is a joy to reflect on the remarkable 

journey we’ve shared and the vibrant future that lies ahead. 

Our commitment to fostering the transformative power of 

dance is evident in every facet of our organization. This season, 

we invite you to breathe in the beauty of “Exhale,” a collection 

of performances that promise to captivate, inspire, and 

resonate with the soul. Your continued support is the driving force behind our ability 

to bring these visions to life and share the impact of contemporary dance with 

our community. 

Our dedication to artistic growth extends beyond the scope of the stage and into 

our In Studio Series: a synergy of creativity and collaboration, where artists unite to 

push boundaries and inspire audiences right inside our home studio. That studio is 

now five years old and facilitates our extensive offering of over 20 weekly classes. 

Ranging from Contemporary and Jazz to Afro-Modern, Improvisation, Salsa, and Tap, 

these classes serve as a dynamic platform for artists to develop, explore, and flourish. 

Our commitment to nurturing the growth of dancers, from beginners to advanced, 

in all stages of life, is an important piece of what we do, and your support makes it 

all possible. 

A special thanks to our talented Artistic Director, Leymis Bolaños Wilmott, and our 

dedicated company dancers, board members, and administrative team, who invest 

their heart and soul into SCD. But truly, your involvement is pivotal in shaping 

the future of Sarasota Contemporary Dance. Whether you have been a steadfast 

supporter for years or are considering joining our dance family, your contribution 

fuels our artistic endeavors and strengthens the bonds of our community. Your 

support enables us not only to continue our mission but to reach new heights and 

expand our impact. 

As we breathe life into presenting “Exhale,” I extend my deepest gratitude for your 

constant support. Join us in celebrating the power of dance and the boundless 

possibilities it brings. Together, we can nurture the growth of artists, embrace 

collaboration, and ensure that Sarasota Contemporary Dance continues to be a 

vibrant artistic force in our community for many years to come. 

Dan Barzel, President 

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FROM THE FOUNDER & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR 

As the Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Sarasota Contemporary Dance, I am 

thrilled to welcome you into our 18th season, “Exhale,” a breathtaking showcase 

of contemporary dance and the boundless creativity of our exceptional company. 

Collaborating closely with talented dancers and creative minds, we’ve crafted 

performances that entertain and spark meaningful conversations. It’s a delicate 

balance that we cherish, and your unwavering support has been the wind beneath 

our wings. 

“Exhale” is a celebration of the art of movement, a display of the accomplished 

past, and an anticipation of the incredible future still unfolding. Our mainstage 

productions launch with a vibrant mashup show in a long-awaited collaboration 

filled with favorite songs and feel-good choreography. Get ready to sing along 

and groove in your seats! Kicking off the new year is “Evolving/Revolving,” a 

multidisciplinary masterpiece and collaboration that weaves together original 

music, projections, and choreography that invites you to witness a motion picture 

of design, movement, and sound emerge on stage. “Dance Makers” follows, 

embodying a rich tapestry of expressions by renowned choreographers, including 

our first-ever commissioned Tap choreography. Lastly, we close with “Voices – Rising 

Choreographers,” giving voice to the next generation of talented choreographers 

who continue to inspire us with their creativity. 

As I reflect on the journey so far, I am in awe of the incredible individuals who make 

up our dance family. It’s your generosity and support that breathe life into our 

company, and for that, I am profoundly grateful. 

To our longstanding supporters, thank you for being the backbone of our success. 

For those considering joining us on this exciting journey, I invite you to become 

a part of our community that values innovation, collaboration, and nurturing the 

growth of emerging artists. Your involvement not only enriches the arts but also 

fosters unity and awe in the shared experience of dance. 

I extend my deepest gratitude to all who’ve played a vital role in the success of our 

company. Let’s foster and cherish this precious gem, allowing it to thrive and inspire 

in the coming seasons. I invite you to savor every moment of this remarkable season. 

Together, let’s exhale and revel in the beautiful gift that is Sarasota Contemporary 

Dance. 

Leymis Bolaños Wilmott, Artistic Director 

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ABOUT THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR 

Leymis Bolaños Wilmott, 

(Co-Founder & Artistic Director) is a Cuban- 

American artist, mother, and teacher with 

rhythm inextricably in her bones, found her voice 

through dance at an early age. As the Founder 

and Artistic Director of Sarasota Contemporary 

Dance, she has the privilege of using those 

bones to create “stunning and imaginative” art 

by Carrie Seidman of the Herald Tribune. As an 

Artist-in-Residence at New College of Florida, she 

has the opportunity to share her love of dance 

and to be an influential member of Florida’s 

dance community. Featured in Sarasota Scene 

Magazine’s Arts & Cultural Issue: Ladies of the 

Arts, Leymis has received numerous artistic achievement and leadership awards 

throughout her career. She was honored to receive the Dance Magazine “Southeast 

Best Choreographer” award and was listed in Sarasota Magazine as one of the Top 

28 Most Powerful People in the Arts. Her 80+ dance works include collaborations 

with artists and organizations of various disciplines, from musicians to museums. 

Collaborative highlights include Sarasota Orchestra, Choral Artists of Sarasota, 

Westcoast Black Theater Troupe, Asolo Rep, Salvador Dalí Museum, Kaleidoscope, 

John and Mable Ringling Museum, Art Center of Sarasota, Stephen Miles of New 

Music New College, composer Eduard Cosla, percussionist Scott Blum, Mark Dancigers 

of NOW Ensemble, multitalented Francis Schwartz, and legendary principal harpist, 

Ann Hobson Pilot. Her works have been performed nationally at the John F. Kennedy 

Center, Ailey Citigroup Theater in NYC, Colony Theater, and Jackie Gleason Theatre in 

Miami and internationally in Ramallah, Argentina, and Spain. Leymis pioneered the 

Dance and Healing certificate at the University of Florida and holds a Master of Fine 

Arts in Performance and Choreography from Florida State University. Her research in 

dance as a healing art form and its ability to harness and foster community building 

came to fruition in 2006 when she and Rachael Inman founded Fuzión Dance Artists, 

now Sarasota Contemporary Dance. Leymis is a professor of dance at New College 

of Florida and a certified Pilates instructor. Through her Dance for PD certificate 

experience, she founded and developed the dance program at Parkinson’s Place in 

2012. She served as Vice President of the Florida Dance Association from 2013-2017 

and is a member of the Arts and Health Coalition in Sarasota. Her most precious 

honor, however, is being married to her husband, Kavin, of eighteen years, and 

mother to thirteen-year-old Charles Edward and seven-year-old Valda Elizabeth, 

who inspires her dance-making daily. 

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DANCE MAKERS PROG 

WORLD WITHIN SILENCE 

Choreographer: Andrea Ward 

Dancers: Juliana Cristina, Xiao-Xuan Dancigers, 

Jessica Obiedzinski, Monessa Salley 

Music: Rainforest sounds – Nature 

When we give way to silence, we discover just how 

loudly it speaks, and how voluminous it is. Creating 

sound is an act of listening to the wells of vibration 

that already exist. Movement is an act of yielding 

to the energy we cannot see. 

CRAZY HEART 

Choreographer: Courtney D. Jones 

Dancers: Xiao-Xuan Dancigers, MaKayla Lane, 

Jordan Leonard, Samantha Miller, Monessa Salley 

Music: “Dats Love” and “Beat Out Dat Rhythm On 

a Drum” by Carmen Jones 

The fast-paced, dramatic movement alludes to the 

bustling, high-energy world of women in business, 

where every step is deliberate, and every motion 

exudes confidence and determination. 

WHERE ARE YOU NOW? 

Choreographer: Frances Bradley-Vilier 

Dancers: Juliana Cristina, MaKayla Lane, 

Jordan Leonard, Samantha Miller, 

Jessica Obiedzinski, Monessa Salley 

Music: “where are you?” By Joomanji and 

“Unhurt” by Aja Monet 

Through my art, I seek to 

of womanhood. This inclu 

traditional gender roles, re 

societal expectations plac 

enable misogyny and patr 

nuances of women’s hurt, 

the impact of the cultural 

upon women that can cau 

and psychological pain. M 

the struggles of being a w 

often ignores, trivializes, o 

of our varied experiences 

to empower women with 

illustrate our resilience in c 

through these struggles w 

compassion. In my work, I 

to light the courage, resilie 

found in all women and to 

power of standing in solid 

JUSTICE 

Choreographer: Vincent H 

Zion Dance Project 

Dancers: Juliana Cristina, 

MaKayla Lane, Jordan Leo 

Jessica Obiedzinski, Mone 

Music & Spoken Word: “R 

“Final Speech” from the G 

Chaplain, “Mural (safer)” b 

Word Poem by Mahmoud 

soundtrack “On the Natur 

Max Richter 

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RAM 

explore the complexities 

des exploring the 

sponsibilities, and 

ed upon women that 

iarchy. I also explore the 

a concept that looks at 

beliefs and values placed 

se physical, emotional, 

y art intends to highlight 

oman in a society that 

r downplays the breadth 

and unique stories. I want 

visual representations that 

onfronting and coming 

ith agency, care, and 

want to focus on bringing 

nce, and strength that is 

reflect the beauty and 

arity with one another. 

Step into a realm where movement becomes 

a vessel for healing, where justice transcends 

the confines of law and policy, and where the 

heartbeat of compassion echoes louder than 

the chaos of our world. In our contemporary 

dance piece, “Justice,” we invite you to embark 

on a profound journey, seeking to unravel the 

threads of hate, prejudice, racism, and political 

turmoil, weaving them into a tapestry of love, 

compassion, and unity. 

ardy, Artistic Director of 

Xiao-Xuan Dancigers, 

nard, Samantha Miller, 

ssa Salley 

evelation” by Dr. J3kyll, 

reat Dictator by Charlie 

y Le Trio Jouran, Spoken 

Darwish with the 

e of Daylight” by 

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DANCERS 

Juliana Cristina (Dancer & Development Lead) was 

born in West Palm Beach, FL. A graduate of the University 

of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA). She received 

her B.F.A Degree in Dance under the direction of American 

Ballet Theatre (ABT) Director Susan Jaffe and Brenda 

Daniels. Juliana has studied in multiple Trainee Programs, 

such as the Nashville Ballet and Ballet Palm Beach. Mrs. 

Cristina was a former dancer for The Palm Beach Opera 

and has performed works by internationally known 

artists, including Azure Barton, Kira Blazek, Helen Simoneau, Ming Lung-Yang, Juel D. 

Lane, Orange Grove, and Martha Graham. Juliana currently teaches at various studios 

within the SRQ community, including Diane Partington Studio of Classical Ballet, and 

as an SCD Teaching Artist. Mrs. Cristina is in her Fifth season as a company member 

and is the Development/Marketing Lead for Sarasota Contemporary Dance. Juliana 

joined the SCD Community because she felt the company’s moral and core values 

as a dancer, performer, and artist were hers. Sarasota Contemporary Dance creates a 

healthy and loving working environment she fell in love with right after graduating 

college. A true Floridian, Mrs. Cristina’s family resides in Florida, and moving back was a 

way to stay close to home and join an arts community that values her as an artist both 

on and off the stage. 

Jordan Leonard (Dancer) grew up in Michigan, 

where her love for the performing arts developed. Through 

her training, she discovered dance’s endless possibilities 

in exploration and story-telling. The idea that she would 

never stop learning intrigued her, and she began her 

journey at Point Park University, earning a Bachelor of Fine 

Arts in Dance, a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Medical and 

Pre-Professional Studies, and a Minor in Chemistry. While 

at the conservatory, she had the privilege of performing 

works by Larry Keigwin, John Heginbotham, Mark Burrell, Jess Hendricks, Garfield 

Lemonius, Kiesha Lalama, Jason McDole, Robert Priore, and others. She furthered her 

training at Keigwin & Company, Sarasota Contemporary Dance, and Chuthis summer 

intensives. Jordan also enjoys choreographing and recently had the opportunity to 

collaborate on a full-length performance at SCD with company member Samantha 

Miller. She also has set work on Sarasota Contemporary Dance Ensemble. Dance 

education is an important part of her life, and she strives to promote positivity, strong 

foundations in technique, individuality, and self-acceptance in her classes. She taught 

at SCD, New College of Florida, and Woodland Fine Arts Academy in Florida. When she 

is not dancing or teaching, Jordan enjoys working in clinical research and spending 

time with family. Jordan desired to join SCD because the company is a family, and 

it fosters a safe environment to grow in artistry. The company constantly provides 

growth opportunities in performance, choreography, and teaching. Jordan is excited 

and honored to be a part of the SCD family; this is her third season! 

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Samantha Miller (Dancer) is an emerging dance 

artist from Kendallville, Indiana. She trained for 16 years 

in tap, jazz, ballet, and modern at Tri-County Dance 

Academy for the Performing Arts. In 2013, Samantha 

continued her studies at the University of the Arts 

in Philadelphia under the direction of Donna Faye 

Burchfield. While at the UArts, Samantha performed 

works by Curt Haworth, Douglas Becker, Esther Baker 

Tarpaga, Jen McGinn, Sidra Bell, Robert Burden, and 

Lauren Putty White. She also worked with Jeanine McCain, performing her work 

“Under Her Skin” at the Philadelphia Fringe Art Festival in 2015. Samantha received 

her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance in May 2016 and is now exploring the 

world of dance in St. Petersburg, FL. Since residing in Florida, Samantha has been 

able to perform professionally with local artists, has been involved with dance theater 

dance performances, and has been featured in dance photography showcases. She 

has been a dancer with RogueDance Company, teaching and choreographing at 

Jeannelynn Dance Studio, growing their contemporary program for 7 years. She has 

also been a teaching artist for Sarasota Contemporary Dance and is a teaching artist 

at New College of Florida. Samantha has been able to present works for SCDs Voices 

and collaborate with company member Jordan Leonard to present an In-Studio fulllength 

performance. Samantha came to SCD during the pandemic, where she found 

a new love for performance and sharing stories. She found a home here, and this will 

be her 4th season with the company. Samantha has a true passion for dance and art 

and hopes to continue growing and sharing her knowledge with younger dancers. 

Dance performance brings Samantha so much joy that she hopes to spread that joy 

and fulfillment in her dancing and choreography. In her words, “all I want to do is 

dance.” Samantha joined SCD to find a community of like-minded people who shared 

her passion for dance and performance. SCD has an incredible platform to grow as 

an individual artist, and that is an important part of her dance journey. 

Jessica Obiedzinski (Dancer & Rehearsal 

Assistant) is a native, 6th-generation Floridian living in 

St. Petersburg. In 2018, Jessica was allowed to join the 

SCD Community to make her career about learning and 

growing through dance. She was excited at the prospect 

of surrounding herself with like-minded individuals 

who pushed themselves physically and creatively by 

performing and making art, and it stuck! Leymis saw 

even more potential to grow and continues to draw it 

forward. It is truly a rare gift. Jessica has been dancing for five consecutive seasons 

with the Company, acting as a dance performer, choreographer, and rehearsal 

director. Jessica has presented choreographic works in the Tampa Bay area for SCD 

Voice’s Rising Choreographers in 2021 and, most recently, through the Hermitage 

Cross Arts Collaborative residency. She has been a company member with Elizabeth 

Streb, Susan Vencl, and Beth Soll’s companies in New York and worked extensively 

with Lynn Simonson and Laurie DeVito on Simonson technique methods. She 

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teaches Pilates and Yoga and is a certified Simonson Dance Technique instructor. She 

has taught Yoga and Simonson technique classes in Florida at SCD and New College 

of Florida. In her spare time, she likes to spend time with her dog, play musical 

instruments, and spend time in bodies of water. Her choreographic inspiration 

comes from patterns in nature and the ways the body copes with life’s unexpected 

tides. Jessica loves wellness practices and is currently exploring the topic of mental 

health and the roles that trauma plays in our physical bodies—taking time to listen 

internally through journaling, watercolor painting, and, of course, dance-making. 

Melissa Rummel (Dancer & Studio Coordinator) was 

raised in Dryden, Michigan, where she started dancing at 

seven. She graduated from Belhaven University with a BFA 

in dance, emphasizing modern dance and choreography. 

She has trained with companies such as Eisenhower 

Dance Ensemble, RiverNorth Chicago, Ad Deum Dance 

Company, and Sarasota Contemporary Dance. This is 

Melissa’s Eighth season with Sarasota Contemporary 

Dance and fourth as Studio Coordinator. Melissa is the 

Associate Director for SCD Ensemble(Student Training program) and the SCD Summer 

Intensive Director. She is passionate about teaching and teaches with SCD and 

Woodland Fine Arts Academy. She also enjoys fitness and its positive effect on others 

and strives to find new ways to combine her love of dance and fitness. She strives 

never to stop stretching herself as a performer, choreographer, and teacher. 

Monessa Salley (Dancer & Production Lead), South 

Carolina native, has been with SCD for five consecutive 

seasons, dancing, performing, choreographing, and 

teaching professionally with Sarasota Contemporary 

Dance Company, serving as Production Lead for the past 

two seasons. After attending an SCD summer intensive in 

2015, she knew this was a special organization, but it was 

not until 2019 that she seized an opportunity to join this 

unique company. Her desire to build community relations aligns with the company’s 

mission, in addition to it being a safe and nurturing space that fosters artistic growth 

in performance, teaching, and choreography. In addition to her work at SCD, she is a 

Teaching Artist for New College of Florida an adjunct Dance Educator for the Booker 

High School VPA Dance Department. She serves as an Arts Integration Teaching Artist 

for several organizations, including The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Wholehearted 

Education, and Suncoast Black Arts Collaborative. Salley enjoys choreographing for 

musical theater and recently served as Assistant Choreographer for West Coast Black 

Theater Troupe. She began training in dance at a young age and is well-versed in 

various genres. She holds a B.A. in Dance Performance from Winthrop University and 

a Masters of Education in Divergent Learning from Columbia College. After continued 

education and serving as a certified Dance Educator and Theater Production Manager 

for 12 years in SC public school, she went on to pursue her MFA in Dance Performance 

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and New Media at New York University’s Tisch School of Arts. She has toured and 

performed professionally with Sapphire Moon Dance Company, Vibrations Dance 

Company, T.O. Dance Inc., The Power Company Collaborative, and NYU’s Second 

Avenue Dance Company. Salley enjoys sharing the joy and passion of dance with all 

ages. She has a “mind, body, spirit” approach to dance and relishes refining her craft 

as a performer and teacher, promoting health, healing, and happiness through dance 

and enhancing community relations. Predominantly teaching Tap, Afro-Fusion, and 

Kids classes, Salley is inspired by rhythm, culture, and dance as a universal language. 

When not dancing, she enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones and her dogs, 

outdoor and aquatic activities in nature, viewing sunsets, and doing anything that 

makes her laugh out loud! 

Xiao-Xuan Yang Dancigers (Founding Company 

Member/Associate Director of SCDE), nominated for 

Best Female Dancer in Australia in 2009, has performed 

throughout Asia, Europe, Australia, and the United 

States with Australian Dance Theater and Cloudgate 2. 

Previously an Assistant Professor at the Taipei National 

University of Arts, she has danced and choreographed 

with Sarasota Contemporary Dance since 2012. In 2013, 

Xiao-Xuan co-choreographed “Dreamfall’’ featuring music by NOW Ensemble with 

Leymis Bolaños Wilmott. She has also danced as a soloist in Leymis’ “Summer Days”, 

of which the Sarasota Herald-Tribune wrote, “With…Dancigers’ total ownership of 

the characterization, was stunning.” She was also a soloist in Gerri Houlihan’s “Every 

Little Movement’’, of which the Bradenton Herald wrote, “A highlight on opening night 

was the long and unspeakably gorgeous solo by Xiao-Xuan Yang Dancigers. If you 

appreciate dance at all, you find yourself wishing the solo would never end.” In 2017, 

she choreographed and performed the solo “Signal” for New Music New College to 

music by Luciano Berio, with the Herald-Tribune calling the performance “stunning... 

precise”. Xuan loves to perform and choreograph. She is extremely passionate about 

teaching young dancers. Since 2019, she has co-directed the SCD Ensemble and 

teaches “Dance for Joy’’ at Aviva Senior Living in Sarasota. 

MaKayla Lane (Apprentice & Administrative 

Assistant) was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, where she 

found her love for dance at the Fort Worth Academy of 

Fine Arts. She then attended Point Park University, earning 

a Bachelor of Fine Arts in spring 2023. During her time at 

Point Park, she has performed in various works by Jason 

McDole, Jesse Factor, Kiesha Lalama, Kiki Lucas, and others. 

While in Pittsburgh, she also took part in events within the 

community. She has performed with the Pittsburgh CLO, 

Botanic Gardens, and the world-renowned Pittsburgh Steelers. As much as she loves 

the stage, she also loves to teach and choreograph. Working with Dance Masters 2022, 

as well as various studios around the area, MaKayla has been able to inspire many 

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young dancers. After graduation, MaKayla moved to Sarasota to expand her artistic 

talents as a dancer, instructor, and choreographer. This will be her first season dancing 

with Sarasota Contemporary Dance. MaKayla is also thrilled to join the community as a 

SCD and Woodland Fine Arts Academy teacher. She is passionate about inspiring others 

and will continue to do so through her artistic voice. 

ARTISTS 

Frances Bradley-Vilier (Choreographer of “Where 

Are You Now?”) is a Flint, Michigan native. She began her 

dance training under the guidance of her father, Bruce 

Bradley, at Creative Expressions Dance Studio. At age 12, 

she won Amateur Night at Showtime at the Apollo; with 

the female tap group The Stepettes. In 2004, she was 

an ensemble member in the musical Bubbling Brown 

Sugar, directed and choreographed by George Faison and 

starring Diahann Carroll in Atlanta. 

Frances starred with the New York Song & Dance Co. amongst notable stars such as 

Misty Copeland, and Shirley Maclaine in the Career Transitions for Dancers 30th gala 

which took place at the New York City Center. In 2013, Bradley was cast in the dance 

musical, Noah Racey’s Pulse: The Beat of Song and Dance, which premiered at Asolo 

Repertory Theatre in Sarasota, FL. She was a featured tap soloist for the international 

touring company Illstyle & Peace Productions, and has performed in notable 

productions/venues, such as Black Girls Rock! & Soul Tour, Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 

at Radio City Music Hall, and Salute to Betty Carter at Jazz at Lincoln Center. 

She has taught at world-renowned schools and organizations such as The American 

Tap Dance Foundation, The Brooklyn Waldorf School, Mark Morris Dance Group, Black 

Girls Rock!: Year-Round Program, Black Girls Rock! Queen’s Camp of Leadership and 

Excellence; Carol Morgan School of Santo Domingo, Charlotte Brookson Academy 

of the Performing Arts (St. Maarten), Dunyah Zaidam Dance School of Brazil, and 

the National Institute of Arts of Arts in St. Maarten and University of Michigan-Flint’s 

Theater and Dance department. She now serves as the Artistic Director of Tapology, 

Inc. and is the Learning and Development Facilitator for the University of South 

Florida’s Center for PAInT R.E.A.C.H. Grant. 

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Vincent Hardy (Choreographer of “Justice”), a 

University of the Arts alum, danced with Complexions 

Contemporary Ballet under the direction of Desmond 

Richardson and Dwight Rhoden. His career spans both the 

concert world and commercial dance, television, and film, 

featuring performances for artists such as Donald McKayle, 

Christopher Huggins, and Desmond Richardson. During his 

time with Complexions, Vincent developed a passion for 

higher education to enrich his craft and contribute to the 

education of upcoming dancers. He pursued and secured 

a full scholarship to the University of California Irvine (UCI), earning his master’s in fine 

arts (MFA). Additionally, he obtained certification in the Horton technique at Alvin Ailey 

American Dance Theater under Ana Marie Forthsye’s guidance. 

Vincent has since taught and choreographed nationally and internationally at 

institutions like Hun yang University (South Korea), Belhaven University (US), and the 

University of North Texas. He served as an artist in residence for organizations including 

Texas Ballet Theatre II, Ad Deum Dance Company, and Ecclesia Contemporary Ballet. 

Currently, he is the Company Class Instructor for both the Dallas Black Dance Theatre 

and Bruce Woods Dance Project in Dallas, Texas. 

In 2017, he and his wife, Abigail, answered the call to create the ZION DANCE 

PROJECT—a collaborative venture reflecting their spiritual artistic synergy and 

commitment to the dance craft. Join Vincent Hardy on a journey where each step is a 

nod to Prayer and artistic freedom and a humble dedication to the dance legacy he 

continues to build. 

Courtney D. Jones (Choreographer of “Crazy Heart”) 

is a professional dancer, educator, and actress named 

one of Dance Magazine’s 25 to Watch in 2012. She is a 

Presidential Scholar in the Arts for Choreography and is 

a proud graduate of SUNY Purchase with a BFA in Dance 

Performance and a minor in Psychology, graduating with 

honors. She began her professional career in Miami, FL with 

the Freddick Bratcher and Company Contemporary Dance 

Theatre while attending the New World School of the Arts. 

After graduation, Ms. Jones continued to work with the Kevin Wynn Collection and 

joined Jennifer Muller/The Works where she taught and toured internationally for four 

seasons. With a growing interest in theatre, she signed with the McDonald/Selznick 

Associates (MSA) talent agency and joined the cast of Show Boat in 2008 accomplishing 

a long-standing goal to perform at Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, and Carnegie Hall 

and went on to join Broadway’s First National Tour of WICKED in 2009. 

In Houston, Ms. Jones enjoyed four lovely seasons from 2010 to 2014 with Hope Stone 

Dance Company where she was the Assistant Director of Hope Stone Dance II (h.s.d. 

II) and has been seen in productions at Stages Repertory Theatre; Auntie Mame, 

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Panto Pinocchio, In the Next Room, Failure: A Love Story, Houston Grand Opera; 

Die Fledermaus, and Theatre Under The Stars; Urban Cowboy the Musical and A 

Chorus Line (Lois/swing). She has served as a choreographer or movement director 

for South Pacific (Choreographer), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Choreographer), The Snowy 

Day (Movement Director), You Are Cordially Invited to Sit In, Madame Butterfly 

(Movement Director), Showboat (swing), The Passenger (Movement Director). 

She is also a highly sought-after consultant both as an Adjunct Faculty member at 

the University of Houston teaching modern dance (Fall Semesters 2010-2014) and 

teaching company classes for Hope Stone Dance, MET Dance Company, SUCHU 

Dance, Rice University Rice Dance Theatre and Urban Souls Dance Company where 

she also served as a guest choreographer for their 2012 season. 

Ms. Jones is the full-time dance teacher at Kinder HSPVA teaching modern, jazz, and 

musical theatre dance technique, dance composition, modern dance partnering, 

and repertory. Additionally, she freelances as a guest teacher and choreographic 

artist under her own CDJ Dance Project at numerous universities, workshops, 

and intensives including Bates Dance Festival, Dancers Give Back Dallas, Bowdoin 

College, Rice University, and the Joffrey Ballet School Summer Intensive (NYC). Her 

work has been commissioned by Counter Current Festival, METdance Company, YES! 

Dance Invitational, DanceNOW Festival, Barnstorm Dance Fest, The Regional High 

School Dance Festival, Colorado Mesa University, Arlington Heights High School, and 

the Dance Gallery Festival. 

Andrea Ward (Choreographer of “World Within 

Silence”) is a contemporary choreographer based in 

New York City, originally from Sarasota, Florida. Her 

movement lives within a merging of fluid and sharp 

dynamics, conceptually driven by nature and the 

deep subconscious. Recently she led a choreographic 

lab in Madrid, Spain for DANZA180 Studio. She’s also 

led classes in Paris and London and has performed in 

Amsterdam and Italy. Andrea has studied with Enzo 

Celli, Jeff Docimo, Bryan Arias, Sidra Bell, Medhi Walerski, 

LaMichael Leonard of Bill T. Jones, Jiri Pokorny of Kidd Pivot, and Jos Baker of Peeping 

Tom, to name a few. She is also a musician and filmmaker, currently releasing an 

album and a series of underwater movement concept films. 

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SCD SUMMER INTENSIVES 

Get ready to move this summer with 

Sarasota Contemporary Dance and guest teachers 

in sunny Sarasota for a week-long dance intensive, 

unlike any other! You have three weeks to 

choose from—or do all three! 

• MAY 18-24, 2024 

• JUNE 8-14, 2024 

• JULY 20-26, 2024 

SarasotaContemporaryDance.org 

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Production Team 

Technical Director and Lighting Designer..................Celeste N. Silsby Mannerud and 

Flip Flop Productions 

House Manager..............................................................................................Bristen DeJarnette 

Videographer...........................................................................Integrated Media Productions 

Green Room Sponsors........................................................... Rob Gibson and Jerry Unland 

Costume/Props Storage Volunteer.............................................................. Syclla Liscombe 

SRQ 

SRQ 

All music rights by agreement with ASCAP 

Thank you to our Sponsors and Media Partners 



Audience Survey 

We want to hear from you! 

Your answers to this quick survey will provide 

valuable feedback on our performance and 

marketing efforts, as well as meaningful data for 

our Sarasota County Tourist Development grant. 

Thank you! 

TAKE SURVEY 

16

CREW 

Celeste N. Silsby Mannerud (Technical Director and 

Lighting Designer) is co-founder of Flip Flop Productions and 

specializes in design and archival for theatrical and private 

events. She received her BA in theatre design from USF and 

her MFA in design management from IADT, and her repertoire 

includes lighting design and production video/ photography 

for local and international dance and theatre companies; 

stage lighting instruction at various Florida colleges; and 

production management, technical/artistic design, and lighting/audio installations 

for the Dali Museum, Tampa Museum of Art, L’Unione Italiana Ybor City, and ArtLab 

Studios in Germany. Aside from her “real job,” Celeste is in the midst of renovating 

an old Airstream to tour the U.S. and is most at peace when under sail with her 

husband, Andreas, and son, Cobyn. 

ADMINISTRATION 

Bristen DeJarnette (General Manager) currently studies 

Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies at New College of 

Florida and has always had a strong passion for dance. She 

started training in dance at the age of seven and has since 

become well-trained in multiple styles, traveled nationally for 

dance, and danced pre-professionally. Once coming to New 

College in 2020, she got involved by being a part of SCDE, 

SCD’s training company, two years ago, and then later worked 

closely with Leymis through Dance on Campus and a Digital 

and Production training workshop series. From there, she worked backstage for SCD’s 

In-Studio Performances and started training with the admin team. Bristen officially 

took on the role of General Manager in July and has greatly enjoyed working under 

Leymis’s leadership and working with everyone at SCD. She looks forward to helping 

the company continue to grow and thrive and is grateful to be the new General 

Manager of Sarasota Contemporary Dance. Also a dance teacher at Woodland Fine 

Arts Academy, Bristen’s strong faith and love for the arts drive her to work hard in all 

she does and be loving wherever she goes. 

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MAKE DANCE h 

DONATE HERE 

Producers $25,000 

*Produces Entire Production 

• Two Complimentary Tickets to every show of your production 

• VIP Access to Open Dress Rehearsal of mainstage production 

• VIP Access to all In-Studio Showcases of choice 

• Name & Recognition on all production publicity 

• Exclusive Dinner with Dancer and Artistic Director of SCD 

Dance Makers Over $10,000 

*Sponsors a Dance Work 

• Two Complimentary tickets to a performance of your sponsored work 

• VIP Access to (3) In-Studio Showcases of choice 

• Name & Recognition in program insert 

• Exclusive Brunch with a Choreographer 

Sustainers $7,500 –$9,999 

*Sponsors 1 month payroll for Dancers 


• Invitation to watch SCDE (Training Company) Class + Dress Rehearsal 

• Name in program and newsletters 

• Exclusive Brunch with SCDE Associate Director 

Devotees $5,000–$7,499 

*Sponsors 1 month of SCD Home Studio work expenses 


• Invitation to watch SCD Company Rehearsal 

• Name in program and newsletters 

• Exclusive Coffee Time with In-Studio Production Lead 

Contrib 

*Sponsors a L 

• Two Compl 

• Invitation to 

• Name in pro 

• Exclusive br 

Home Stud 

Suppor 

*Sponsors a D 

• Two Compl 

choreograp 


with SCD G 


Enthus 

*Supports a D 



Admire 

*Supports SCD 


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appen 

utors $2,500–$4,999 

ive Music Collaboration 

imentary tickets to Music Performance of choice 

watch company rehearsal 

gram and newsletters 

own bag lunch with SCD Company Dancers at 

io 

S 

C D 

iasts $100–$999 

ancer in our training program 


watch SCDE Training Company Rehearsal 

ters $1,000–$2,499 

ance Choreographer 

imentary tickets to performance of sponsored 

her 

watch company rehearsal followed by Coffee Time 

eneral Manager 


rs Up to $99 

Teaching Artists class fee 


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SCD Kids 

Summer 2 24 

July 8-12 

SCAN TO 

REGISTER 

SCD’s exciting Kids 

Summer Camps will explore 

a variety of dance styles, 

including contemporary, 

jazz, afro-modern, and 

hip-hop, all taught by SCD’s 

dynamic teaching artists. 

REGISTER TODAY! 

LITTLE GROOVERS 

Ages 5–7 

9:00am – 1:00pm 

$150 

Aftercare available until 2pm, 

$175 

INTERMEDIATE MOVERS 

Ages 8–10 

9:00am – 2:00pm 

$175 

$25 Registration fee (includes t-shirt) 

For more information, visit 


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Sarasota Contemporary Dance 

MIDDLE MOVEMENT SAMPLER 

This summer, middle school 

movers can join SCD’s 

dynamic teaching artists for 

an exciting week of dance 

exploring different styles, 

including contemporary, jazz, 

afro-modern, and hip-hop. 

JULY 8-12 

Ages 11-14 

2:30pm – 4:30pm 

$100 

$25 Registration fee 

(includes t-shirt) 

REGISTER TODAY! 

For more information, visit 


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CONTRIBUTORS TO 

SARASOTA CONTEMPORARY DANCE 

Thank you to everyone who has generously donated from 

August 1, 2022 – November 1, 2023. All contributions are vital to 

our growth as a dance company. Without your generosity, this 18th year 

would simply not be the amazing reality it is. 

SUSTAINERS: OVER $10,000 

Bernard Friedland 

Dan Barzel 

Rebecca Schowe 

Sam Alfstad 

Shane Chalke 

Shirley H. Foss 

DEVOTEES: $5,000 - $9,999 

Elizabeth Ford 

Jaime Still 

Jane Woods 

Joslin Yeiser Coonan 

Mark Walsh 

Steven Buckley 

Tuck Colby 

Victor Cipolla 

CONTRIBUTORS: $2,500 – $4,999 

Chuck Campbell 

Jeff & Deborah VanEvery 

Kathryn Petrovich 

Rachel McAree 

Ronald Shugar 

Tammy Karp 

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Alden Keyser 

Anamaria Guerra-Vera 

Carol Gaskin 

Chuck & Terry Pishko 

Edward & Annette Eliasberg 

Gail L Baird Foundation 

Georgia Higgins 

Harris Simons 

Janet Bell 

Jeanne Hamil 

SUPPORTERS: $1,000 - $2,499 

Joan & James P Sprouse 

Kevin Maloney 

Kira Lee 

Kira Orsag 

Lauren Bruno 

Lauren Crabbe 

Marlene Liberman 

Melanie Whaley 

Michele Shultis 

Neill Garfield 

Patricia Forshee 

Pocha Horton 

Rick & Karen Lanese 

Robin Klein-Strauss 

Ross Mercier 

Sheila Foley 

Susan Feltus 

Thomas Pepe 

In honor of 

Muriel Gordon Mayers 

ENTHUSIASTS: $100 – $999 

Enthusiasts 

3 horizons LLC 

Aaron West 

Abbey Box 

Adam Porris 

Adriana Gabelli 

Albert Hannoush 

ALine Arthur Sicilian 

Blanchard 

Amy Bayard 

Amy Blair 

Amy Eliezer 

Amy Gordon 

Amy Martin 

Amy Tolmach 

Anamaria Gonzalez 

Angela Rauter 

Angus Roberts 

Anjali Austin 

Anna Lee Ernst 

Bethany Smith 

Bill Kwon 

Bonnie Kissam 

Brandi Love 

Brandon Turner 

Brenda Topp 

Bret Jones 

Brian Renner 

Carolina Cotran 

Caroll Michels 

Carolyn Paparozzi 

Chad Braverman 

Charles & Diane Fancher 

Chris Voelker 

Christine Schlesinger 

Daniel Dokko 

Dean Piccirillo 

Derek Byrd 

Diane Georgeson 

Donna Koffman 

Donna Labik 

Douglas Libertore 

Ed & Claudia Swan 

Elizabeth Sassen 

Eric Woods 

Erik Abrahamson 

Fred Rath II 

Gabriela Lopez Vergara 

Gerri Houlihan 

Gigi Roberts 

Greg Goebel 

Guy Jensen 

Heidi Brandt 

Ike & Judith Koziol 

Jaime and Julie Didomenico 

James Marchese 

Jane Thompson 

Janis Wasserman 

Jean Kirshenbaum 

Jeanne Ruddy 

Jeff & Janice Newman 

Jeff Borysiewicz 

Jeffrey Koffman 

Jennifer Thayer 

Jennifer Bean 

Jerry Unland 

Jerry Wells 

Jesse Biter 

Jim Morton 

Jim Travers 

Jonathan Glucker 

Jose Santana 

Joslin Woods 

Judilee Sterne 

Julian Eller 

Kathryn Glickman 

Kelly Franklin 

Kevin Daves 

Kevin Robbins 

Laida Bolanos 

Lesley Svenson 

Linda Convissor 

Linda Simons 

Lisa Schindler 

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Lois C Bartis 

Lois Mould 

Lonnetta Gaines 

Lorraine White 

Lou Donato 

Louise Yeiser 

Lynn Guarch-Pardo 

Maria Cisneros 

Mark Kauffman 

Marsi Burns 

Matthew DePalma 

Melanie Chaves 

Michael Holderness 

Michael Vlaisavljevich 

Moni Joblin 

Nancy Blitzer 

Nancy Roucher 

Neil McCurry 

Neill Garfield 

Nicole Dalfio 

Nicole Nicholson 

Niel Shank 

Norbert Donelly 

Pat Houppert 

Patricia Shiland 

Patrick McArdle 

Paul Woods 

Rhiana Taylor 

Rick & Irma Uhler 

Ron LaFace 

Ronald Gibson 

Rosalie Cipolla 

Ryan Stang 

Sara Mastovich 

Sharon Rusnak 

Shila Lagrua 

Stacyann Young-Cole 

Steven Hellmann 

Susan Brown 

Telsys Tarallo 

Teresita Curbelo 

Timothy Mitten 

Todd Josko 

Tom Leonard 

Ulrich Gunthart 

Urbanite Theatre IN 

Victoria Larson 

Whelma Thompson Ford 

Winny Rush & Tom Roberts 



Audience Survey 

We want to hear from you! 

Your answers to this quick survey will provide 

valuable feedback on our performance and 

marketing efforts, as well as meaningful data for 

our Sarasota County Tourist Development grant. 

Thank you! 

TAKE SURVEY 

24

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

Jaime Still – President 

Dan Barzel – Treasurer 

Robert G. McLain, Jr. – Secretary 

Sam Alfstad – General Board 

Muriel Gordon Mayers – Founding Board Member 

Georgia Higgins – General Board 

Victor Cipolla - General Board 

FOUNDERS CIRCLE 

The Founders Circle is a funding initiative through which 

Sarasota Contemporary Dance seeks to establish a circle of ten 

leadership funders committed to a three-year giving term 

($10,000 per year), which will further secure the Company’s ever bright 

present and future. To become a member of our Founders Circle, 

please contact Dan Barzel: Dan.Barzel@gmail.com. 

Sam Alfstad 

Steve & Lynn Blackledge 

Shane & Monique Chalke 

Ann Donelly 

Steve & Isabella Lehrer 

Janice Bini & Dean Scarborough 

Shirley Foss 

SARASOTA CONTEMPORARY DANCE IS A 

NON-PROFIT 501(C)(3) ORGANIZATION. 

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Therapeutic Massage 

Manual Lymph Drainage 

Lymphedema Therapy 

“Massage is like a dance 

between my hands and 

your body’s innate ability 

and desire to find balance”. 

Nicole Clarac Lagès, MA6792 

nicolelageslmt@gmail.com 

(941) 735-1500 

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Get your tickets today for 

exciting Broadway musicals, 

comedies, dramas, & live 

music! 

CELEBRATING OUR 75TH SEASON 

Box Office 941.748.5875 

502 Third Avenue West 

Downtown Bradenton 

ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com 

for all events, dates, and times 

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THANK YOU 

FOR SUPPORTING SCD! 

SEE YOU NEXT TIME AT 

VOICES - RISING CHOREOGRAPHERS 

MAY 2-5, 2024 

1400 Blvd of the Arts, Ste 300, Sarasota, FL 34236 

941.260.8485 | SarasotaContemporaryDance.org 

SARASOTA CONTEMPORARY DANCE IS A NON-PROFIT 501(C)(3) ORGANIZATION. 

PHOTOS BY SORCHA AUGUSTINE 



SRQ 

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SRQ

Dance Makers 2024 Program

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