That’s a wrap! TVFL PTP 2021
Our inaugural Professional Training Program was a huge success. We had an incredibly talented and eager group of dancers, a roster of sought-after Fosse teachers and educators in acting, Flamenco, Indian classical, ballet, rhythm, and Afro-Cuban dance styles, and a host of special industry guests including Fosse veteran performers, current Broadway casting directors, and TVFL Founder/Artistic Director, Nicole Fosse. Thank you to our instructors, guests, Broadway Dance Center, and everyone who played a role in making this program possible.
Here’s what our PTP students had to say:
Two weeks in New York city...some of the best weeks of my life. That sounds dramatic but I seriously have had the most amazing time training with The Verdon Fosse Legacy. I am so honored and grateful to have been able to be part of the inaugural Professional Training Program. I have grown so much as a dancer. I am not the same person or dancer I was walking into this. Thank you to all the teachers who came in and passed on their knowledge and wisdom. I will forever cherish the stories, corrections, and advice from every single person. There is a fire that reignited inside of me these past two weeks. I found the passion and drive that makes me who I am. Thank you, TVFL - I had the time of my life.
- Emily Nester (Chicago College of Performing Arts ‘24)
When I first got to New York, I was a nervous wreck to say the least. It was my first time in the city by myself. I did not know how to use the subway. I didn’t know anyone, or where I was. Since I trained mostly in singing and acting throughout college, I did not know what to expect in an intense dance experience like this, and on the first day I was scared. But the second we hit the ballet barre and continued the day with Afro-cuban then Fosse Jazz I knew I was where I belonged, doing what I loved to do most. I was hungry for more, and the education provided through the program definitely fulfilled that.
I left New York with a deeper appreciation for this work, I found a new group of friends who are the next generation of Fosse Dancers, and I re-found my passion for dance that has been lost for a while. Like everyone was saying at the end of our last day: This is only the beginning.
-Gabe Igtanloc (San Diego State University ‘21)
Thank you TVFL for selecting me to be a part of this historic experience. Being trusted with the absolutely iconic choreography and works of Bob Fosse has meant the world to me. The energy in the room for the past two weeks has been nothing short of magical and I am eternally grateful for that. Being surrounded by so much history and artistry has truly been a gift and one that I will hold very deeply in my heart for the rest of my life. The arts are back. Dance is back. Musical theatre is black. Fosse, in its original intended form, is back. And wow, it feels good.
- Emily Thamm (Hofstra University ‘20)
I cannot even express in words how much this program has impacted my life. Each new day and piece of repertoire brought new knowledge, wisdom, beloved Bob and Gwen stories, encouragement, and inspiration. I am feeling so blessed to have made such beautiful friendships with each unique and talented artist. To be the youngest of a select fifteen to train here has been a true honor. Mainly for the last year, I knew I wanted to dance this style/choreography for the rest of my life. But now I realize that I need to. My soul is hungry and feeds on it. My heart overflows with an endless amount of gratitude and love for TVFL for holding this program dedicated to enriching us all.
- Isabella Craven (Hunter College ‘25)
TVFL Professional Training Program recently ended and I am already missing it. It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Not only did I get to learn from some of the most amazing instructors, I got to work alongside peers that energized and inspired me daily. These past two weeks were beyond fulfilling. My passion for dance and performance has grown exponentially and I am so grateful. Thank you TVFL for this opportunity!
- Lauren Barkman (Boston Conservatory ‘23)
#1 Doing this work for the past two weeks has completely changed my approach to dance. It’s almost like I refuse to work any less now. I want to be so vulnerable and authentic in my movement. The intention needs to be clear and that comes from direction but it also comes from within. Pour yourself into your art.
#2 It’s amazing being in a room with people who just want to learn. I’ve yet to take a class in the city with this energy and I hope it's something we can all experience more. All egos let go. Permission to fail. Immense hunger and drive to do everything better.
#3 It’s not really about the moves at all.
- Megan Bowen (Professional Dancer, NYC)
Stay tuned for more information about our next Professional Training Program. To get on our email list, reach out to info@verdonfosse.com.
