Dr. Yoav Kaddar shares his perspective on finding your path in dance. He stresses the importance of valuing the fullness of a dance education - it offers way more than just technique class. His experience in dance began with folk dance which defined his role in shaping community whether as the current director of the WVU Dance Program, founding its Summer Dance Academy, or as president of the WV Dance Education Organization. He received his BFA in dance from The Juilliard School, his MFA in dance from University of Washington, and his PhD from the State University of New York.
He has performed nationally and internationally as guest artist and has been a member of such modern dance companies as the Jose Limon Dance Company, Paul Taylor Dance Company, Pilobolus Dance Theatre, Peter Pucci Plus Dancers and Jacob’s Pillow’s Men Dancers. He has also danced with numerous independent choreographers and has choreographed for dance and theater.
In this episode, he shares about developing and looking for spaces that will allow dancers to give their best while being challenged to new levels. He describes the joy of being part of a dancer's transformation or growth process and honoring the responsibility that comes with it. He encourages dancers and their parents to pay attention to the environment within which a dancer can thrive - including a willingness to let go of brand name appeal. Kaddar emphasizes the duality of maintaining big picture focus while contributing fully as an individual. Choosing the right program for you includes understanding the value of dance education - the fullness that it gives you beyond learning movement technique.
