Dance instructors from the University of the Virgin Islands’ (UVI) Department of Communication and Performing Arts are presenting virtual dance workshops this month to highlight the dance techniques and academic studies offered in the newly launched Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) dance program. The workshops are offered free of charge to the public, and high school students are encouraged to participate.
“We are very fortunate to have two phenomenal instructors who are both highly trained and have extensive teaching and performance experience around the world,” said Dr. Vanda Espinosa, a UVI English professor and dancer, who was instrumental in advocating for the development of the dance program.
A native of New York City, UVI Assistant Professor Djassi DaCosta Johnson grew up frequently visiting her grandfather on St. Croix. Her position at UVI now brings her back to her childhood playground with a new purpose – to expand accessibility for students who want to enter the field of dance.
“Black dancers and black female dancers in leadership roles are underrepresented in the industry. It is still a very elitist industry and I would like to help build this department to open awareness and help bring about change,” she said.
More information is available in a news release on the Media Section of the UVI Website-www.uvi.edu/ - and from this direct Link