Meet the Dancers: Spencer Everett, From New York to St. Louis
From Saint Louis Dance Theatre's "Meet the Dancers" series.
Spencer Everett's journey reads like a greatest-hits compilation of contemporary dance. From training at The Ailey School and Fordham University to dancing with Ailey II at venues like the Holland Dance Festival and The Joyce Theater, to working with choreographers like William Forsythe and Robert Battle—his résumé is impressive. But what drives this Canadian-born artist now in his second season with Saint Louis Dance Theatre? We sat down with Spencer to find out.
You started dance training at age four and also trained in circus arts and acrobatics. How did that early versatility shape your approach to movement?
I really have an affinity for dance as a whole. I grew up taking every style I could and versatility is the best tool a dancer can have in their box.
Speaking of tools—what's your go-to cross-training exercise?
Go for a run! Start with a slow walk and build to a long jog. In the park, on the treadmill, whatever. It's so natural to us and it's the best way to get the whole body involved.
Which piece in STLDT's repertoire has been most meaningful to you?
Sechs Tänze. It is a mile marker in my career for me as a dancer to perform a piece by Jiří Kylián.
Spencer Everett in Sechs Tänze by Jiří Kylián | Photo by Pratt + Kreidich
What was your favorite memory from this past season?
Our debut concert. The energy was unmatched and the whole company bonded that weekend.
Beyond dance, you're also a visual artist. Tell us about that.
I'm a visual artist—I draw every day. The evidence is in my palms stained with black ink.
When you're looking for inspiration, where do you turn?
The other artists around me. I feed a lot off the energy in the room.
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