Mark Willis
New York,NY
Summary
A professional dancer, teacher, artist and personal trainer with a passion for movement and extensive experience working with diverse populations. Highly collaborative and works well under pressure; specializes in modern and contemporary dance styles and adept at balancing constructive criticism with positive reinforcement. I have consistently demonstrated problem-solving, creative thinking and communication abilities in every aspect of my teaching and coaching roles throughout my career. My knowledge in dance, yoga, Pilates, and strength training has helped me cultivate a unique perspective in training, giving my students a better understanding and agency over their physical livelihood. I seek to find a community where I can share my love for movement and inspire others to discover their untapped potential.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Dancer
BARKIN/SELISSEN Project
03.2022 - Current
Dance Teacher
José Limón Dance Foundation
08.2016 - Current
- Specialized in teaching Limon Technique
- Taught and explained choreography by breaking down technique principals
- Created healthy and safe learning environment for all students by implementing class rules and promoting mutual respect and gentle discipline.
- Taught students from 3rd grade up to professionals
Choreographer/Instructor
The Cadets Drum And Bugle Corps.
05.2015 - Current
- Developed new choreography for shows; provided instruction and training for 168 performers of varying levels of movement experience
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
Dancer
WHITE WAVE Dance Company
08.2014 - 06.2023
- Collaborated with director to enhance and refine movements to properly enact intended vision; helped in editing and performing award winning dance films
- Performed at FINA Olympic Opening Ceremonies 2019 in Gwangju, South Korea
- Taught workshops in NYC, Detroit, Vancouver, and throughout South Korea
Dancer
Adams Company Dance
09.2022 - 02.2023
- Collaborated in creation of a Dance Film
Performer
Jody Oberfelder Projects
02.2020 - 07.2022
- Site-specific and interactive performances
- Worked with improvisation and collaborated with creation of choreography
- Utilized trumpet playing in collaboration with additional performers
Principal Dancer/Soloist
José Limón Dance Company
02.2015 - 08.2021
- Performed principal roles in "The Moor's Pavane", "Missa Brevis", "Orfeo", "The Exiles"
- Princess Grace Award Nominee - 2019
- Cultural Ambassador with DanceUSA Tour 2016 in Zambia, Madagascar, and South Africa
Dancer/Singer
ChristinaNoel And The Creature
10.2014 - 05.2015
- Collaborated with choreographers to enhance and refine movements to properly enact intended vision.
- Incorporated improvisation, singing and trumpet playing in creative process and performances
Dancer
Douglas Dunn And Dancers
01.2014 - 04.2015
Dancer/Performer
ACROS Dance
10.2012 - 10.2013
- Utilized pageantry skills in performances.
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Dance
Montclair State University
Montclair, NJ12.2013
Skills
- Leadership Skills / Performance Skills
- Current NASM Certification
- Choreography
- Dance Development
- Partner and Ensemble Collaborations
- Creative Solutions
Certification
- NASM CPT - Certified Personal Trainer
Additional Information
*Proficient with music and film editing programs - Logic Pro X and Final Cut Pro
*Brass Player - Trumpet, Baritone
*Singer - Bass/Baritone
*Conversational French proficiency
*Expert in pageantry arts - Rifle, Saber, and Flag
Timeline
Dancer
Adams Company Dance
09.2022 - 02.2023
Dancer
BARKIN/SELISSEN Project
03.2022 - Current
Performer
Jody Oberfelder Projects
02.2020 - 07.2022
Dance Teacher
José Limón Dance Foundation
08.2016 - Current
Choreographer/Instructor
The Cadets Drum And Bugle Corps.
05.2015 - Current
Principal Dancer/Soloist
José Limón Dance Company
02.2015 - 08.2021
Dancer/Singer
ChristinaNoel And The Creature
10.2014 - 05.2015
Dancer
WHITE WAVE Dance Company
08.2014 - 06.2023
Dancer
Douglas Dunn And Dancers
01.2014 - 04.2015
Dancer/Performer
ACROS Dance
10.2012 - 10.2013
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Dance
Montclair State University
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