As a Black American woman raised in the urban communities of Cleveland, DeAndra believes in creating space for all regardless of their race, gender identification, age, religious preferences, geographical location, perceived disabilities, educational background, and varying viewpoints. DeAndra studied Dance at Cleveland State University while earning her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, and Master of Science in Health Sciences. DeAndra has taught at the collegiate level, primary through secondary education, as well as community settings such as Olivet Institutional Baptist Church, Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Coventry Children’s Center, and guest with A.R.K. (Art Reaching Kids) (OH).

In school settings, DeAndra has served as Adjunct Faculty and Interim/Artistic Director of Dance at Cleveland State University; guest instructor at Hathaway Brown School; and returning guest teacher with Cleveland Metropolitan School District, working with various grade bands including students with multiple disabilities and Autism. Her  teaching experiences include instruction in ballet, modern, contemporary, liturgical/ lyrical dance styles, as well as lecture presentations on the history of hip hop and dance appreciation.

Performance credits include choreography by Dianne McIntyre, Doug Gillespie, Dr. Habib Iddrisu, Dance/Theatre Collective; company member with Ajayi Dance, Marquez Dance Project, Cleveland State University Dance Company; as well as Sheldon and Terry Adelman and Dance/USA dance showcases; with continual education credits and learning opportunities with Gibney Dance, GroundWorks DanceTheater, Mark Morris’ Dance for PD, Sarah Ramey Levitt, Amie Dowling, and the American College Dance Association.

DeAndra’s extensive training in dance, studies in health sciences, and sustained involvement with community programming offer unique opportunities for dancers. Through her experience incorporating dance with various populations of diverse movers and learners, and as a member of the National Dance Education Organization, DeAndra has developed an embodied practice to dance as an art form and dance as a communal activity.

Availability

Upon Request