Portfolio

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Brooke Katsafados (she/her) is a dancer, choreographer, and educator from Brick, New Jersey. She is in the final stages of earning her BFA in Dance with a minor in Business at George Mason University, set to graduate in May 2025. Brooke began her training at Shore Dance Center and later refined her technique at New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble. She has performed works by Manuelle Vignouelle, Susan Shields, and Larry Keigwin, among others. Passionate about sharing her artistry with young dancers, Brooke has been teaching since 2020 and runs her own business, Brooke Ashlee Modern Movement, offering private lessons and choreography services. Brooke’s work is rooted in dynamic physicality and emotional expression, with a commitment to fostering growth and confidence in her students. She has been recognized for her excellence in dance with the New Jersey Governor’s Award for Artistic Excellence and Leadership and the NDEO Artistic Merit, Leadership, and Academic Achievement Award. 

I am a contemporary and modern dancer who uses movement to express what words often can’t. Dance allows me to process emotions, tell stories, and connect with others in an honest, personal way. I’m always searching for the balance between control and release, finding freedom through intention and vulnerability. Moving outside my comfort zone helps me discover new parts of myself, both as an artist and a person. No matter where I am or what I’m dancing, I strive to stay present, expressive, and true to who I am.

1-Year Plan (May 2025 – May 2026):

After graduating in May 2025, I will move back home to Brick, New Jersey, to focus on securing a company contract in either New York City or Philadelphia. Living at home will allow me to save money while commuting to auditions and potential work opportunities. I plan to attend as many auditions as possible, targeting companies that align with my artistic and professional goals. At the same time, I will actively grow Brooke Ashlee Modern Movement into a more structured business. I’ll collaborate with a colleague to develop a solid business plan, outlining my goals, services, and marketing strategy. I will start reaching out to local dance studios—including Miss Bri’s Studio and other nearby schools—to inquire about renting space for private lessons and pop-up classes. Additionally, I’ll expand my outreach to new studios and organizations to establish myself as a teacher and choreographer in the area. To increase visibility and attract more clients, I will focus on social media growth, consistently sharing content that highlights my teaching, choreography, and professional journey. By the end of the year, I will have completed my yoga certification, allowing me to add yoga instruction as another income stream. The main goal for this year is to secure a company job while developing my business, ensuring financial stability, artistic growth, and a strong foundation for future opportunities.

3-Year Plan (May 2028):

By the end of three years, I plan to have moved out of my parents’ house and into my own apartment in New York City or Philadelphia, depending on where my company job is based. By this point, I aim to be established and growing within the professional dance world, feeling secure in my role within a company and working on exciting projects such as touring, performing in larger productions, or collaborating with choreographers who inspire me. Alongside my company work, Brooke Ashlee Modern Movement will have expanded into a well-known name within the local dance community. I plan to offer regular classes, workshops, and private lessons and develop partnerships with studios or arts organizations. I also see myself teaching yoga consistently, integrating it into my teaching and choreography practice while using it as an additional income source. Financially, I will be in a more stable position, supporting myself fully while saving for future goals such as international training, travel, or further education. The ultimate goal for this phase is to balance company work, independent teaching, and financial growth while feeling confident and fulfilled in my career path.

5-Year Plan (May 2030):

By year five, I want to be living in a city that truly feels like home, whether that’s New York, Philadelphia, or another city that supports my career and personal growth. I envision myself in a stable and comfortable living situation, feeling independent and settled. Professionally, I aim to have worked with multiple dance companies, choreographers, and collaborators, building a diverse and dynamic resume. A major goal for this phase is to work in Europe, whether by performing with a company, collaborating on an international project, or participating in a residency. I want to immerse myself in the international dance scene, gaining new perspectives and exposure to different styles and creative approaches.

By this time, Brooke Ashlee Modern Movement will ideally have grown into a thriving business with a steady client base. Whether that means running a dedicated studio space or continuing to offer consistent private lessons, workshops, and choreography commissions, I want to have a solid reputation as both a performer and educator. At this stage, I want to feel established, confident, and clear about my next steps. Personally, I see myself continuing to evolve as an artist, pushing past my comfort zone, and balancing my professional ambitions with a fulfilling and joyful life.