Dara is a highly accomplished choreographer, dancer, and educator who has significantly impacted the landscape of City Dance. Holding an M.F.A. from Temple University and honored with the Rose Vernick Choreographic Achievement Award, her career embodies a deep commitment to dance in urban environments and diverse communities.
Her extensive performance background includes touring with Total Dance Theater in Senegal, West Africa, Brian Sanders’ “Junk”, “Black Nativity”, and Sonia Sanchez’ “Living Legends” tour, showcasing her versatility across various styles of city dance and theatrical productions. As the Assistant Artistic Director, Principal Dancer, Choreographer, and Rehearsal Director for Eleone Dance Theatre, Dara plays a pivotal role in a renowned city dance institution. Her choreographic talents extend beyond the stage, having worked with Bad Boy’s “Danity Kane”, Grace Dance Theater, and CAPA of Philadelphia musicals, demonstrating her ability to create compelling city dance movement for diverse platforms.
Dara is also the co-founder of DCNS Dance Intensive, further solidifying her dedication to dance education within city settings. She has imparted her expertise at institutions like West Chester University, Drexel University, Temple University, University of the Arts, and Pennsylvania State College, shaping the next generation of city dance artists. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a “Best Choreography Award” from National Dance Showcase, Philly Fringe Festival’s “Rocky Award”, the “Ellen Foreman Memorial Award” from Drexel University, the “E Award” from Eleone Dance Theatre, and the “Audience Choice Award” at the International Dance Festival in Stuttgart, Germany. She has also served as Creative Director and Director for “Carols in Color” on film and produced and choreographed the impactful mental illness awareness show, “Beneath the Surface”. In 2020, the Delaware Art Museum commissioned “The Bridge of Our Roots,” a full-length choreographic piece inspired by Eldzier Cortor’s art.
Currently, Dara is an Adjunct Faculty member at Drexel University and Temple University, and a full-time dance educator within the Philadelphia Public School System, directly engaging with city youth through dance. Professionally certified in Umfundalai Technique and Progressing Ballet Technique, she also developed the dance curriculum for the Philadelphia Ballet’s Dance Chance Program, further cementing her influence on city dance education. Beyond her professional achievements, Dara is a devoted wife and mother of three, balancing a demanding career with family life within the vibrant city dance community.
