Student Historian

Paula J. Peters is currently a M.F.A. candidate in Dance at the University of Washington. Prior to completing her B.F.A. in Dance through the Professional Dancers Program at Cornish College of the Arts, Ms. Peters performed professionally with Spectrum Dance Theater in Seattle, Washington for fourteen years; dancing and staging works by choreographers of national prominence. She has taught ballet, jazz and modern dance as a visiting lecturer at the University of Washington and as an adjunct instructor at Cornish College of the Arts. Ms. Peters’ M.F.A. thesis, “All That Jazz: Forces and Figures in the American Popular Entertainment Industry,” investigates the deep contributions that African American dancers/choreographers have made to the American popular entertainment industry.

 

Lorenzo “Rennie” Harris (1963- )

Rennie Harris, hip hop dancer, artist, teacher, artistic director, choreographer, and founder of Rennie Harris Puremovement (RHPM), was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1963. At the age of 15, Harris began teaching workshops and classes at universities around the country, educating the public of the … Read MoreLorenzo “Rennie” Harris (1963- )

Alonzo King (ca. 1952- )

Alonzo King, Founder/Artistic Director/Choreographer of Alonzo King’s LINES Ballet in San Francisco, California, is a world-renowned contemporary ballet choreographer for stage, film, opera, and television. King has created works for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Frankfurt Ballet, and Swedish Royal Ballet, … Read MoreAlonzo King (ca. 1952- )

Bill T. Jones (1952- )

Bill T. Jones, Artistic Director/Co-Founder/Dancer/Choreographer of Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company was born on February 15, 1952 in Bunnell, Florida. Jones’ prolific career as a choreographer has brought him international acclaim. Awards include: 2007 Tony Award for his choreography in Spring Awakening; 2007 USA … Read MoreBill T. Jones (1952- )

William Henry/Master Juba Lane (1825-ca. 1852)

William Henry Lane is credited as one of the most influential figures in the creation of American tap dance. Lane developed a unique style of using his body as a musical instrument, blending African-derived syncopated rhythms with movements of the Irish jig and reel. Lane’s … Read MoreWilliam Henry/Master Juba Lane (1825-ca. 1852)