Malashock Dance Welcomes New Producing Artistic Director, Christopher Kaui Morgan

Christopher K. Morgan, Producing Artistic Director

Malashock Dance is thrilled to announce the appointment of Christopher Kaui Morgan as its new Producing Artistic Director. Christopher brings an impressive wealth of experience as a creator, administrator, curator, and educator, making him a visionary leader poised to steer the company into an exciting new era.

A Distinguished Career in Dance and Arts Administration

Christopher Kaui Morgan is no stranger to the world of Malashock Dance, having begun his dance career as a company member from 1995 to 1998. Since then, his journey as a choreographer, arts administrator, curator, and educator has been marked by exceptional accomplishments. He founded the renowned dance company Christopher K. Morgan & Artists in 2011 and gained national recognition when Dance Magazine featured him as one of six breakout choreographers in the United States the same year.

His diverse choreographic works, which artfully integrate dance, storytelling, original music, and multimedia design to explore identity and social and cultural issues, have been showcased in an impressive 22 countries across 5 continents. Christopher's dedication to the arts extends beyond the stage, as evidenced by his vital role as Vice President of Programming at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, where he curated captivating music, dance, and theater performances, oversaw the Schaefer International Gallery, and lead an arts education program that benefits thousands of Hawai'i youth, adults, and educators.

Furthermore, Christopher served as the Executive Artistic Director of Dance Place in Washington, DC, from 2017 to 2021, skillfully steering the organization through challenging times and prioritizing support for artists and teachers. His commitment to promoting cultural integrity, inclusivity, and diverse representation has been acknowledged through his nomination by President Joseph R. Biden for the National Council on the Arts, for which he secured a six-year term in March 2022.

"After beginning my dance career 28 years ago at Malashock Dance & Company, it is an incredible honor to return to the organization in a leadership capacity. John's artistry and leadership has resonated throughout my career.  It is a thrilling opportunity to sustain John's work while bringing a fresh perspective from the array of experiences I've had since I last lived in San Diego. I look forward to learning more about the current San Diego arts community and supporting the growth and deepening of the arts ecology in San Diego and beyond."

- Christopher K. Morgan

 

Carrying Forward the Malashock Dance Legacy

As the new Producing Artistic Director, Christopher Kaui Morgan will bring Malashock Dance into the future while honoring the extraordinary legacy of founder John Malashock. He aims to advance the art of dance in San Diego, presenting ambitious and relevant works to local audiences, while simultaneously expanding the company's reach within the national and international dance scenes.

 

Exciting New Goals and Future Aspirations

Christopher Kaui Morgan's appointment comes with a set of exciting new goals for Malashock Dance. He envisions expanding the artistic horizons of the company, inviting and nurturing more choreographic voices to create diverse and captivating works. Under his leadership, Malashock Dance will continue to push boundaries, inspire audiences, and advocate for the transformative power of dance through its Company, School, and Community Outreach programs.

 

Join Us in Welcoming Christopher Kaui Morgan

Malashock Dance invites its supporters, patrons, and the entire San Diego community to join them in welcoming Christopher Kaui Morgan as the new Producing Artistic Director. The company is eager to embark on this new journey, embracing fresh perspectives and innovative visions to enrich the cultural landscape of San Diego and beyond. Christopher will begin full-time in January 2024, when John Malashock will transition to the position of Founding Artistic Director, where he will remain on the Board and be involved in various aspects of Company productions and community engagement. Stay tuned for an invitation to meet Christopher!

 

"I could not possibly be more thrilled that Christopher is joining us as our new Producing Artistic Director. With his passion, warmth, and inspiring manner, I know he is exactly the right person to lead us forward with a new artistic vision."

- John Malashock

Christopher K. Morgan and students from his community class in San Diego, March 2023.

 

Community support ensures dance belongs to everyone. 

Funding partners are an important part of our community. Contributions from individuals, foundations, and government grants and contracts expand what dance can do. We invite you to join our community of supporters by making a donation today

This month we would like to recognize the institutions that have made contributions within the past year: California Arts Council, County of San Diego, City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, GEICO Philanthropic Foundation, KPBS Public Media, National Endowment for the Arts, NTC Foundation, San Diego Unified School District VAPA Foundation, Smart and Final Charitable Foundation, U.S. Small Business Administration, Walter J and Betty C Zable Foundation. 

 
 
 

New Adult Class - Afro-Modern with Dunham Roots

Join us for an exhilarating dance experience that celebrates movement, diversity, and self-expression. This inter-generational dance class welcomes movers of all ages and skill levels, creating a vibrant community where everyone can explore the power of dance.

This class is designed to nurture body awareness, self-reflection, and body acceptance. We create a brave space where each participant can embrace their unique journey and find a sense of belonging within the supportive community we cultivate. 

See the Full Class Description

 
 

Open House for Dancers Ages 3 - 17

Join us on August 27 from 9am-3:30pm for an exciting day of free trial classes for dancers ages 3-17. 
Dancers will have the chance to try all the styles offered at Malashock Dance, Meet the faculty, Order dance shoes, and register in person. 

 

 
 
 

CALL FOR CHOREOGRAPHERS:

Everyday Dances III

Our vision is to engage the community in discovering the wide variety of San Diego-based dance artists who are poised to share their powerful creative voices; demonstrate leadership; and fulfill their artistic vision in collaboration with a community of dance makers and professional dancers. Up to 9 choreographers will be commissioned for the project. 

ENVZN 23:

September 2, 2023

ENVZN23: Urban Art Takeover is approaching fast and we’re excited to be a part of this one-of-a-kind visual & performing arts festival that will transform numerous industrial spaces on Commercial St. into stunning art installations & performances. We’ll be presenting work by Jessica Rabanzo-Flores and Rann Golemco, and John Malashock at 8:; & 8:30 pm. Visit  www.bit.ly/ENVZNSD for more information.

Use my promo code MSHOCK or an extra 20% off your tickets before ticket prices go up on August 15th.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Jillian Anderson

Meet Jillian Anderson, a remarkable student from our Dance With ThisAbility program, whose passion for dance goes above and beyond!

On July 30th, following the inspiring "Is It Thursday Yet?" performance, created and executed by Jenn Freeman, Jillian accompanied our Outreach Program Manager and dedicated Dance With ThisAbility instructor, Nicole Diaz-Pellot, to the Discover Sunday panel hosted by La Jolla Playhouse. There, they spoke with Jacole Kitchen, Director of Arts Engagement and In-House Casting, discussing the importance of creating an inclusive and brave space in dance!

We are so proud to have Jillian as part of our dance family, as she continues to make a positive impact in and outside of the Malashock Dance School studios! 

 
 
 
 
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