For over three decades, Marion Powell has been an integral part of the University of Alabama, currently serving as the Coordinator and Coach for the esteemed Crimson Cabaret Dance team. Under her guidance, Crimson Cabaret has risen to national prominence as a top-ranked dance program, celebrated not only for its captivating performances but also for its commitment to community service, academic excellence, and outstanding dance achievements in the realm of cabaret dance and beyond. Her dedication has been acknowledged by University of Alabama President Dr. Robert E. Witt, recognizing her significant contributions to student recruitment and ongoing engagement with University alumni.
A Tallassee, Alabama native, Coach Powell’s deep connection to the University of Alabama began during her student years. Holding both a B.S. and M.A. degree in Business Education/Administration from UA, she was a distinguished Crimsonette with the Million Dollar Band under the direction of Dr. James Ferguson. In 1979, her talent led her to become the Crimsonette choreographer, where her innovative choreography style became a hallmark of Alabama’s spirit programs. Her dynamic routines have graced prestigious stages including SEC Championships, three National Championship games, over twenty bowl appearances, and nearly 350 Alabama football and basketball games, showcasing elements of cabaret dance within a broader performance context.
Elevated to Crimson Cabaret Coordinator in 2004, Coach Powell has steered the team to impressive national rankings in both hip hop and jazz dance competitions, further diversifying the team’s repertoire beyond traditional cabaret dance styles while maintaining a focus on performance excellence. The comprehensive Crimson Cabaret program she oversees includes rigorous weekly dance and spirit rehearsals, fitness workouts, and specialized dance technique classes, ensuring well-rounded development for her dancers. Adding to her extensive dance expertise, Coach Powell is also a respected veteran judge for the Universal Dance Association’s National Dance Team Championships in Orlando, Florida, contributing her expert eye to the national cabaret dance and spirit scene.
Coach Powell’s dedication is evident in the countless hours she invests in her passion: teaching, choreographing, and fostering school spirit at the University of Alabama. When asked about her favorite song, she enthusiastically answers, Yea Alabama! She attributes her success in dance and teaching to her mother, Annie Katherine Woodall, a dance teacher in Elmore County for over 60 years. Her unwavering support system is her family, including her husband, Mark Powell (a ’77 UA Graduate), and sons K.T. Powell (’08 UA Graduate) and Kasey Powell (a current UA student). Together, they champion her commitment to Crimson Cabaret and the art of cabaret dance at the University of Alabama.
