Modern Dance Alumna Emily Bezbatchenko is a Company Member with Eisenhower Dance Detroit Alumni Profile
Meet Emily Bezbatchenko
- Job Title & Employer
- Company Member, Eisenhower Dance Detroit
- Major/Program
- Dance (modern)
- Graduation
- April 2018
- College Activities
- Dance club
- Scholarships
- Artistic Achievement Award
- Hometown
- Buffalo, N.Y.
- High School
- Williamsville East High School
- Now Living In
- Detroit, Mich.
- Hobbies & Interests
- Pilates, cooking and traveling
“Emily brings an open heart and fearlessness to the rehearsal process which is a gift to an artistic director or choreographer. She is dedicated to her craft and exudes the technical proficiency and power that Eisenhower Dance Detroit is known for.”
"Point Park prepared me in the best way possible for company work post-graduation. The training in all styles made the switch between ballet, modern and jazz effortless."
Why did you choose Point Park University’s dance program?
The diversity of styles drew me to Point Park University's dance program. Growing up, I studied all styles, attending a competition studio as well as a ballet studio. Both studios were incredibly important to me and my training, so I adored Point Park for being well-rounded in each technique. It exceeded my expectations by far and I would do It all over again if I could. I didn’t think I could love the school any more, until I went to visit. Every teacher and student was incredibly helpful and welcoming. I knew that I would find lifelong friendships here and this was the place for me.
In what ways did your college experience prepare you for your career?
Point Park prepared me in the best way possible for company work post-graduation. The training in all styles made the switch between ballet, modern and jazz effortless. Although being a contemporary company based in Detroit, we perform a great deal of work focused on the Motown generation. Point Park trained me to be able to adapt quickly to this style while still holding the contemporary and ballet techniques.
Each professor made an immense impact on my career. The dedication that each instructor has for every student is admirable. Despite post-graduation, the faculty members are lifelong mentors and will do anything they can to aid. They have taught me the importance of perseverance, diligence and patience. I learned to never give up, and to keep pushing for your dreams no matter what. You are the master of your fate, so why not make it the best?
Tell us about your current job.
My current position with Eisenhower Dance Detroit is a dream. I auditioned for the company in March 2018 and was offered an apprenticeship in April. I was hesitant to accept the position because it was unpaid, but I thought It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
I moved to Detroit shortly after graduation and began training with the company. EDD has a certain style of training that I still work every day to perfect. Being an apprentice was truly demanding. Towards the end of the season, I was performing much more with the company, so my responsibilities grew. At the end of the season, I was thankfully asked back as a full touring company member. I knew that I was offered that position because of my hard work and dedication throughout the season. I kept pushing like I was taught and knew that if I put in the hard work and dedication, it would be worth It. Taking the apprenticeship was the best decision I made. Aside from being a company member, I also aid with the social media for the company.
Who inspired you at Point Park?
Professor Garfield Lemonius, M.F.A., inspired me during my time at Point Park and continues to this day. His passion for the art form is heartening. Working with him over the years showed me what hard work and consistency looks like. His style is demanding, which trained me to be ready to go whichever way the movement would take me without second guessing. Outside of the studio, Garfield was the most helpful and motivating professor. He guided me along my four years, and I can’t thank him enough for where I am today.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Working post-graduation, the most important thing I have learned is to never give up. Hold yourself to the highest standard that you want to be and always give 110%. Whatever happens, you can tell yourself you did everything you could, and that’s all you can ask for. I have learned to always stay true to myself, and most importantly, to never lose the passion for this art form.