BASE Resident Spotlight | Conni McKenzie
Base Resident 2024 Spotlight: Conni McKenzie
Each year we look forward to showcasing the immense talent of global majority artists through our BΛSE (BIPOC Artist Sanctuary & Enrichment) Residency program. This year’s cohort beautifully represents the diversity of dance styles and cultures within our community. It has been an honor to give these residents the opportunity and space to grow in their artistry and teaching capabilities as they lead workshops and produce their final performances.
Meet Conni McKenzie. Originally from the East Coast, Conni creates immersive experiences through movement. We are thrilled to have an artist with her extensive dance background in this year’s residency.
Hometown:
I’m originally from a suburban town in New Jersey called Piscataway. Growing up, I spent a good chunk of time in Brooklyn and New York City visiting friends and family. In many ways I still consider both New York and New Jersey my home.
Dance/Movement style(s):
Growing up, I had extensive training in Jazz, Hip-Hop, Ballet, Tap, Modern, Contemporary, and West African. While I was still living in the New York region, I had the opportunity to train with Dance Theatre of Harlem, Mark Morris Dance Group, and the Radio City Rockettes.
Since relocating to the Bay Area, I have shifted my practice from traditional technique training into an integrated approach that has allowed me to better understand my foundations as a mover. My practice is deeply rooted in ecosomatics, defined by the integration of movement with the natural world. I pursue holistic wellness and aspire to capture the metaphysical essence of nature through choreographic inquiry, digital arts, and community dialogue. As a dancer, my style is a fusion of jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, soca, and freestyle.
What inspired you to start teaching/choreographing?
I was initially drawn to teaching as a means to continue my passion for dance after graduating while balancing a full-time job. My journey as a teacher began at a Black-owned youth dance studio, where I had the opportunity to teach various dance styles including ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, hip-hop, and conditioning. Since then, I’ve continued to teach dance across diverse settings including studios, outdoor spaces, schools, pop-events, and private lessons.
What led you to the BASE Residency program?
The BASE Residency program presented a unique opportunity to converge my passion for teaching with long-standing dreams of mine to produce my own dance performances. In 2022, I took the first steps towards creating original works and held my first show last October. Since then, I’ve been actively seeking opportunities to further develop my skills as both a choreographer and producer.
The BASE Residency program stood out as the perfect next step for me to merge my dance-making practice with my teaching background. Not only did I see it as an opportunity for personal growth and artistic development, but it also offered a platform for me to refine my choreographic skills and further my practice as a dance educator. So far, the program has proved to be a natural progression in my journey.
What do you enjoy about choreographing and/or teaching dance?hana:
I find immense fulfillment in connecting people to their bodies. It has been incredibly rewarding to see so many people grow and embrace dance into their lives. I love dance education for its capability to draw out our work ethic, confidence, and inner performers.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue this type of career?
Embrace your unique voice and vision, and be your own biggest supporter. Cultivating a positive self-concept and unwavering dedication to your craft are essential steps in this journey. As cultural bearers, we often find ourselves carving our own path, navigating new terrain more frequently than revisiting familiar territory. To manifest our dreams, you must first convince yourself of your capability and commit to this promise every day. Prioritizing rest and self-care is equally crucial. Taking care of yourself ensures that you have the energy and resilience to pursue your aspirations with vigor and enthusiasm.
Connect with Conni:
Website: connimckenzie.com
Instagram: @lady_dancelot
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/connimckenzie
The 2024 BASE Showcase will take place outdoors at Parks at 5M (447 Minna Street, San Francisco) on Saturday, April 27th at 1pm and 3pm. Visit pushdance.org/baseresidency to register for free tickets today!