Point Park University Alumna Cheryl Mann is an Artist, Dancer, Photographer and Educator Alumni Profile
Meet Cheryl Mann '94
- Job Title & Employer
- Assistant Dean, CalArts School of Dance
- Job Title & Employer
- Owner, Cheryl Mann Productions
- Major/Program
- Dance (jazz)
- Hometown
- Knoxville, Tenn.
- Now Living In
- Burbank, Calif.
- Hobbies & Interests
- Soccer mom and a Cricut fanatic
"Point Park was the perfect place for me to grow as a person and an artist."
You are an artist, dancer, photographer and educator. Tell us about key moments in your career.
I started dancing with Disney when I was 17 and had the opportunity to work there for five years during the summer and holidays.
After graduating from Point Park University's dance program, I performed with River North Dance Chicago under Sherry Zunker and Frank Chaves. Next, I was a leading dancer with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago for 10 years under the direction of Lou Conte and Jim Vincent.
Since 2009, I have owned Cheryl Mann Productions. I've also worked as the executive director of Ate9 Dance under the direction of Danielle Agami. Currently, I am the assistant dean of the Sharon Lund Dance School at CalArts.
What are your responsibilities in your current role?
I am the official photographer for The Joffrey Ballet and Los Angeles Ballet.
I also shoot dance photos for Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACSHA) and Orange County School of the Arts (OSCA), leading performing arts high schools in Southern California.
As assistant dean, I lead the fourth-year experience for students, which is the final preparation for their departure from school and into their professional careers. I artistic direct their final performance at our downtown theater called REDCAT. I also teach ballet technique to all levels in the dance school.
What have you enjoyed most in your career?
I’ve mostly enjoyed the people I’ve met and the places I’ve traveled in my career.
How did your college experience prepare you for your career?
Mann on the cover of Dance Magazine.
Photo by Todd Rosenberg.
Point Park was the perfect place for me to grow as a person and an artist. We were small but mighty back then! The faculty were like family to us. They challenged us and taught us the importance of hard work with the right mix of fun. We pushed and inspired each other to move past our comfort zone. We never settled for mediocracy, yet we remained humble and grateful for our time there. We are all still very close and love reminiscing about our days in school together.
What advice do you have for high school students considering Point Park’s dance program?
Choose your school wisely. Do your research as you would when auditioning for companies or shows. One size does not fit all. Get a feeling for the environment and the faculty. Look at the mission for the school and see if it speaks to you.
Point Park has grown into a mind-blowing Conservatory of Performing Arts led by visionaries with heart. Even though the program has grown in size, the family aspect still remains. I find Point Park grads to still be humble and have a strong sense of work ethic — my favorite kind of dancer to work with!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
These are your formative years. The first year is the year of exploration and meeting your new friends for life. The second year can feel challenging, but stay engaged!
The next two years will fly by, and then you’re onto your life in the dance world. Don’t take this time for granted. It’s a precious time. The studio is your playground and the possibilities are endless. Don’t wait for inspiration from others. The inspiration must be inside of YOU.
Connect with Cheryl Mann '94
More About: faculty, Conservatory Alumni, Dance Alumni, Conservatory of Performing Arts, jazz, dance