RICHARD ELSZY

Jazz, Contemporary Jazz

From JAN 11-Feb 29, 2016

Jazz 3, MON & WED 11:30A-1:00P

Richard Elszy is passionately dedicated to training the next generation of dancers through his technical expertise and inspiring them with inventive and picturesque choreography.  Elszy, a teaching protégé of dance educator icon Paula Morgan fuses his wealth of knowledge and unique artistic vision to create a well rounded, technically innovative and game changing training experience. 

Richard began his training at a small single room studio in Central California.   Wanting to learn more about dance, he attended the University of California Irvine where he danced for legendary choreographer Donald McKayle as a member of his company “Donald McKayle’s Etude Ensemble” and trained with acclaimed ballet professor David Allen.  Elszy has also trained with one of Americas 10 Ballet Masters Larry Long dancing with his “Civic Ballet Of Chicago” and in Philadelphia at “Philadanco”.

Richard’s dedication to learning technique led him to train with Dance Icon Paula Morgan and has spent the last 11 years studying, assisting and now, certified to teach the “Paula Morgan Method” syllabus. He’s travelled extensively as Paula’s teaching assistance across America, Europe, and Canada and is featured in all three of her technical DVDs. 

Elszy is currently the director of technique at the National Award Winning dance studio, Adage Dance Center. His choreography has won several FDC titles, numerous national titles and other accreditations; including the 2011 Rainbow Elite ‘Video of the Year’ for “Step Sisters” and nomination for Best Novelty/Character Musical Theater at the 2012 KARTV Dance Awards for “500 Miles”.  Recently, Richard won the Star Award in the Best Ballet/Open Category for his piece “Tornado” at 2014 Industry Dance Awards in Hollywood.

Former students of Richards have gone on to perform with professional modern/contemporary companies, collegiate dance programs and have danced and choreographed for artists including Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus. His work can be seen at several collegiate dance programs, companies and dance studios throughout the United States and Canada.

Richard combines his extensive understanding of technique with an innovative choreographic style to create a unique class and coaching experience for dancers of all levels across America and abroad.

Picture and bio courtesy of the teacher.