Olivia Shirley

Olivia is a stunning dancer, choreographer, and human. She is so amazing at her craft and an inspiration to many.

These photos are from her BFA concert in the spring of 2022.

Olivia Shirley was born outside of Pittsburgh in New Kensington, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Slippery Rock University with a BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography and a BA in Psychology. During her college career, she has worked with faculty and guest artists such as Bill Evans, Jennifer Keller, Lindsay Viatori, and Jesse Factor. She had the pleasure of performing in Martha Graham’s, Celebration, restaged by Jesse Factor, at the Joyce Theatre (NYC) and Jacob’s Pillow Inside/Out (MA). She has also performed in a tap piece choreographed by Bill Evans, both locally and at the University of Maryland. Olivia has presented her choreography at the American College Dance Association conference, Slippery Rock BFA Independent Concert, and SRU Dance Theater. She has performed at Cleveland Dance Fest, SRU Faculty and Guest Artist Concert, and SRU Dance Theater Concerts. Olivia has

presented her research "Creating a Safe Dance Environment that Honors Mental and Physical Health through Ruth Zaporah's 'Action Theater' and Improvisation Practices" at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research and SRU Research Symposium. Additionally, she has received the Outstanding Choreographer’s Award, Jan Hollack Memorial Dance and Lukasik Dance Scholarships, and the Presidential Scholars Award.

I had the privilege of working with Olivia on her lighting and it was evident even in that short time how dedicated she is as a choreographer and performer. She has accomplished so much already and I'm sure she will continue to be successful in all of her endeavors.

A statement from Olivia:

"Dance makes me feel at home. When I dance I experience the most genuine, authentic version of myself. It allows me to feel and express every emotion, sensation, or thought I go through. Dance gives me a way to feel free, unique, creative, and reflective.-"

"-When I choreograph I get to explore the vast, endless movement possibilities which makes me feel excited and fulfilled. Experiencing other dancers perform my choreography is one of the most rewarding, happy feelings ever. It is so inspiring to see other artists take my movement and add their heart and soul, creating something so rich and beautiful."