The University of Memphis and dance community are getting a bite from the Big Apple. Tiffany Mills, choreographer of the Tiffany Mills Company in New York City, is in town on a three-week residency -- and her company mates will be joining her Feb. 28 and remaining through March 4.
In her second stay in Memphis in four years, Mills is leading two classes daily, modern dance II and advanced techniques, and has brought along Open Nerve. Open Nerve is the name for company work which has been given to several students of the dance department. On March 2 at 8:00 p.m., the students and pros will share the stage.
"These residencies give the idea that, 'Yeah, I like to do this,' " said Holly Lau, associate professor of theater and dance. "It's networking. We can't bring New York to Memphis, but we can bring little pieces. It opens eyes."
The students are thrilled to be in professional hands, according to Lau, and the work she's seen through the program is extraordinary.
She said the department fully recognizes Mills' talents as dancer and teacher and values the tools and ideas she has to offer.
Mills sees these performances more as a partnering with students.
"It's not just abstract movements on stage," Mills said. "The stories come from personal experiences."
Mills said human relations are the essence behind her expressions.
Lau said she has been watching Mills bridge the gap between academia and professionalism during the stay.
Mills herself stressed the value of professional contact, and said she had benefited from it in her academic days.
"We're trying to bring a little bit of that, taking that leap to the professional," Mills said.
Mills has been working in New York for six years, and her company was incorporated in 2000.
"The University of Memphis is a special home to me," said Mills. "The students are enthusiastic and in good hands with faculty. They're ready for the pro-work that our company presents."
Following her residency, Mills and company are bringing the show to the American College Dance Festival Association, a competitive showcase at the University of Arkansas-Little Rock on March 7.
Mills will be offering a lecture and demo on Feb. 22 in the Communication and Fine Arts building, room 124. This event will be free and open to the public.
