Meet Ethan Gwynn: Choreographer and Dancer

Meet Ethan Gwynn: NEW dance instructor who will teach Youth Contemporary Modern/Jazz and Street POP at the Father Ryan Arts Center for Fall 2012!

Q: Describe your work
A: Whenever I choreograph something, I love to work with different levels. When I first started dancing I found myself always grounded and never using the floor or even using the space above me. So now when I create a new phrase, I like to incorporate jumps, rolls, slides, and a simple crouch to the ground.

Q: What/who inspired you to become a dance artist?
A: A childhood friend of mine. He encouraged me to take a ballet class. At first I was hesitant, but then I was hooked from the first day of class.

Q: What is the best thing about your profession?
A: Not only am I not confined to a small cubicle, but I get to be active. Dance itself is a very challenging career choice, but I also found that it is the most rewording experience. Nothing is more exciting than learning a new jump or phrase. You work so hard in the studio to learn new challenging moves and when you are able to the jump, slide, or turn you leave the studio with a smile on your face.

Q: What is the most challenging part?
A: You would think the hardest part of being a dancer would be how physically demanding dance is. The hardest part for me was definitely keeping a positive attitude. So many times I compared myself to other dancers. I watch dance videos on youtube and always say to myself “I wish I looked that way” or “I wish I could do that.” Dance is more mentally demanding than physically. You have to find a level of confidence in yourself to continue to go to class or to continue to have the drive to want more out of it.

Q: What are you most proud of in your life?
A: The moment I realized dance was my career choice. I went through so many different options. From wanting to be a big-wig on Broadway to wanting to run a resort. It took a life or death situation to bring me to realize that dance was what I wanted to do. I found my true passion in dance when I started to push myself, and I noticed an immediate change in my attitude towards my future and how I interacted with my friends.

Q: what are your three greatest passions
A: 1) Would be dance, 2) Family, 3) Meeting new people.

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?
A: My biggest pet peeve would have to be people who don’t try their best. So many times I have been in a dance class or rehearsal and dealt with people who talk during class, stare into space, and goof off. People who don’t take advantage of the opportunities that are in front of them will never grow or be successful. You have to be active in what you want to do in life.

Originally posted: http://artology101.wordpress.com/2012/09/07/welcome-ethan-gwynn/

Learn more WITH Ethan:

Youth Contemporary-Modern/Jazz I: Ethan Gwynn

WEDNESDAYS (6:30 pm – 7:30 pm)
September 19 – December 5 (12-week program)

SATURDAYS (1 pm – 2 pm)
September 22 – December 8 (11-week program)

For the first year compulsory dance student, contemporary modern and jazz technique classes compliment the professional ballet training, designed to develop dancers into well rounded dynamic movers. Students learn technical styles inspired by classic Jazz choreographer, Bob Fossi, and lyrical and modern dance styles made popular by dance programs such as “So You Think You Can Dance.” This class is mandatory for Father Ryan Arts Center Student Dance Ensemble members.

Resident (15136) $92/per program   |   Non Resident $105/per program

Open Street POP: Ethan Gwynn

SATURDAYS (2 pm – 3 pm)
September 22 – December 8 (11-week program)

If you like the dance you see in your favorite videos, and America’s Best Dance Crew alike, Street POP is for you! It’s Hip/Hop and more! We practice the coolest, most popular moves to today’s most danceable tracks. Gain new edge for that upcoming dance competition or presentation, or just come out and have a great time dancing with us. Street Pop is not only lots of fun, it’s a great work out, and teaches coordination and rhythm.

Resident (15136) $88/per program   |   Non Resident $110/per program

[CALL 412.771.3052 ABOUT OUR MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN OPTIONS. Sign up today: http://www.fatherryanartscenter.org/register.html or download our fall 2012 class schedule: http://www.fatherryanartscenter.org/PDF/ArtsCenter_Fall2012_RegistrationForm.pdf]