By Raven Crosby, Administrative Assistant
I had the opportunity to speak with Choreographer Career Development Initiative (CCDI) choreographer Christiana McLeod Horn. Previously, Christiana was one of our Atlanta Contemporary/ Dance Canvas Summer Residency choreographers (2023) and presented her first work with the company. This season, she was sleeted as our High Museum Resident Artist! As a resident artist, Christiana had the opportunity to choreograph her full work at the High Museum of Art in the new Dance Lab and has taken inspiration for her piece from the exhibits in the museum. Keep reading to learn more about Christiana, some challenges that she has faced as a choreographer, and what she is excited about as we move close to our Performance Series Showcase on March 22-23.
Raven: Who are you? Where are you from and based? Who are
you as a choreographer?
Christiana: My name is Christiana McLeod Horn, and I am a dancer, choreographer, and dance educator originally from Augusta, GA. I am currently based in Atlanta, GA, and relocated to the area for college in 2019. I attended Spelman College as a Dance Performance & Choreography major and graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2021. As a choreographer, I find myself relating to community-based work which reflects not only the embodied memories of my collaborators but also dreams of a more equitable future for artists and humans around the world. I am a visionary storyteller who translates emotions and narratives into captivating movement on Atlanta stages and in site-specific works alike. Through a fusion of creativity and technical expertise, I craft dance works that not only showcase the physical prowess of performers but also convey a profound and resonant message, engaging audiences in a unique and immersive artistic experience.
Raven: Why did you apply to the Choreographer Career Development Initiative Program?
Christiana: I applied to the Choreographer Career Development Initiative Program based on my recent positive and life-changing experience as a choreographer with Dance Canvas during their summer residency in partnership with Atlanta Contemporary. After delving into the exploratory process of setting work on talented local professionals, I was deeply inspired to share my voice on other platforms like the concert stage in the work’s latest iteration, Freaux Tales. Dance Canvas has shown themselves to be a consistent supporter of artists in the Atlanta area, and I was humbled to learn that I was selected for this amazing opportunity. My intention when applying was to expand my choreographic skills and connect with a diverse community of artists. The program’s emphasis on mentorship and professional development directly aligns with my aspirations to refine my artistic voice, learn from experienced mentors, and contribute to the rich tapestry of the dance community through collaborative endeavors.
Raven: What are some challenges that you have faced as a choreographer?
Christiana: Being a choreographer has presented multifaceted challenges, one of which is reconciling artistic vision with practical considerations. Striking the right balance between pushing creative boundaries and ensuring that the choreography remains accessible to a diverse audience requires constant navigation. Moreover, working with a team of dancers, each with their unique strengths and limitations, demands a delicate choreographic approach to highlight individual talents while fostering a cohesive ensemble.
Logistical challenges, such as coordinating rehearsal schedules, securing rehearsal spaces, and managing budget constraints, add another layer of complexity. Adaptability is paramount when unforeseen circumstances, like dancer injuries or venue changes, arise, requiring quick thinking to maintain the integrity of the performance. Lastly, establishing a distinct choreographic voice and gaining recognition in a competitive field poses a continuous challenge, motivating me to constantly evolve and innovate in my approach to dance creation. Through these challenges, however, I find opportunities for growth, pushing myself to refine my craft and enrich the dance experience for both performers and audiences alike.
Raven: What are you the most excited about during this program?
Christiana: During this choreographic residency, I am most excited about the prospect of immersing myself in a collaborative and nurturing environment again. The opportunity to engage with experienced mentors and fellow choreographers promises invaluable insights that will undoubtedly catalyze my artistic growth. Exploring new techniques, refining my choreographic voice, and experimenting with innovative concepts within a supportive community of like-minded individuals is an exhilarating prospect. Additionally, having dedicated time and resources to fully delve into the creative process is a rare and exciting privilege. I look forward to continuing the exchange of perspectives and the collective energy that will undoubtedly foster a transformative and enriching experience during the development of Freaux Tales, ultimately culminating in our March 2024 performance.
Join us as our acclaimed performance series returns to the Ferst Center to mark our 16th year of presenting new artists in “Introducing the Next Generation…” The production brings new choreography to the stage, highlighting the work of selected Atlanta, New Jersey, Miami, and Washington, DC-based choreographers. “Introducing the Next Generation…” is a diverse mix of ideas, coming to life at the Ferst stage, exploring the bridges between movement and life experiences. The show features a vibrant cast of over 40 professional Ballet, contemporary, and hip-hop dancers. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased HERE. We hope to see you there!
Dance Canvas 